My procedure when ordering a Seiko diver online is as follows, especially when ordering from a smaller retailer. In the order notes I write the following “Prior to sending, please ensure the bezel insert, chapter ring and dial are all aligned properly to save us both the hassle of me sending it back to you”. It let’s them know I’m one of “those” watch collectors and hasn’t failed me yet. 🤪
Please don't stop making these videos. There are honestly so many watches to talk and learn about. You are the one stop shop for honesty, comedy, and a well written, cohesive video. Thank you for being you and please... Keep being you!
I think Seiko intentionally makes amateur mistakes on all models to boost Grand Seiko sales. Thing is I would NEVER buy any Seiko with all I've seen from thier lower lines. If they cant be arsed to make a trued watch for thier lower lines then they dont respect themselves enough for me to consider anything from them.
I believe that it’s worth saying that the pressed clasp is honestly very comfortable. And despite what people say, the basic bracelets on these Seikos and Orients are very smooth and comfortable despite them not being exactly cost reflective...
@@Ktrb Plus its nice to know that if you have one, the other, or both, that they will feel familiar with their sizing. I've found the clasps to be very secure too! Also don't see the point in spending almost the price of the watch (in some cases) to upgrade an already great bracelet to a nicer milled one on these. Only thing that is probably worth it is a crystal mod in my opinion. I tend to be a bit clumsy with watches and would rather see a scratched up pressed clasp than a scuffed up and scratched mineral...
They are smooth and somewhat comfortable but they don’t taper much so it’s uncomfortable to wear long term for me. I’d rather get the strapcode bracelet and add the marine master clasp. Perfect combo imo
There's a third option - you can get a regular old turtle _and not mod it._ I've worn my SRP773 on most days for close to three years, day and night, and even though the case is scratched up, the crystal remains flawless.
What sacrifices were required or what black magic do you know for this to be the case??? I've never had a watch with hardlex that didn't acquire a bunch of scratches if I wear it regularly.
@@jonathans2281 I got to tell you....I own one....and the quality of the bracelet ,the double domed sapphire crystal, and the lume...... Are all first rate.
@@jonathans2281 That's because Marc includes return packaging. He doesn't give away the watches to buy reviews, they have to give them back after review. Maybe one of Jody's friends will get one some day to loan for rewiew.
@@paulhart2021 I watch Marc's videos and love them. And he seems like a very knowledgeable dude. And I believe his watches are probably better than the ones they mimic. But they turn me off too. I'd be more inclined to buy an Islander if it was more an evolution of something rather than a blatant copy of something. I mean, the spare parts of an SKX007 are interchangeable with the Islander. It's like he's going to the best SKX counterfeiter and saying, "yeah, but I don't want the Seiko logo. I want my logo. You can do that? Great. Here's my credit card #" But I believe an Islander watch is probably an incredible value.
The cyclops lenses on the king Turtles all seem to be positioned wonky. If they can't or don't want to put them on properly then they should just leave them off.
Stuck on the island of Bali during this pandemic and needed a decent swim, surf, snorkel watch...Seiko Indonesia had a sale a few months ago and delivered from Jakarta came in at AUD$525 for the same model...a tad weighty but retro cool and does the job nicely...thanks for your reassuring review
@@Exotic-P I will try and give you a useful answer to a good question. I think that the quality control complaints that most watch enthusiasts have with Seiko center around appearance matters, not the actual functioning of the watch. Most seem to be that the markers on the face of the watch do not align with the tick marks on the bezel around the face, or that the second hand does not stop in a second tick mark on the face, or in this case that the magnifying bubble on the crystal does not align with the day/date windows. It is frustrating to many people, because Casio can make all these things line up on a $45.00 watch, yet Seiko does not seem to want to correct the problem on $600 watches. Welcome to the watch community. Most people are pretty friendly and helpful.
@@ianbutler1983 The watch is "Chi-com".........Though the Chinese are capable of making very high quality, it appears Seiko has "chosen" a "substandard" manufacturing and/or quality control to save $$$...... You are correct, on $600 watches, these issues should be "gone." Trying not "bash" Seiko, IMO they are over rated. I have had several movements fail with in a year. The quality is on par with DG and other Chinese movements but the Chinese Movements end up being less. They are good watches but I just feel you do not get the "best bang for your $$".
San Martin are absolutely killing it at the moment, such a good watch for the money, and zero quality control issues on mine. Sapphire, ceramic, milled clasp....
@@shanephillips8735 I have no problem with it really since it is not off by much and the model is the older turtle case (Seiko doesn't make that version) and the waffle rubber strap is the best rubber strap I have ever had (Seiko, uncle Seiko, Zelos)
I’m on the fence with this one. Price not bad, style...definitely on the cool wall😉. But the fact the case is made in China and the QC issues😱. Basically just buy a Steeldive SD1970 and it has better QC, also everything lines up. As a side benefit it lets you keep a chunk of change in you pocket or to buy more Vostok’s😂.
I have both… they are really close.. the bezel is better on the seiko and… the Lumed Bezel on the SD rocks…. My seiko was a xmas gift. Would i buy it now? Nah… would get the SD1972 daydate for 100 bucks.
I am a big seiko fan boy. Think it’s the nostalgia of being a 70s child. I’ve got a 1972 pogue which is a birth year watch and just bought a snowflake which I love. I bought the European limited edition alpinist but it’s sitting in the box unworn as the inner bezel doesn’t line up but it will go up in value eventually so it will stay in the cupboard. Anyway, the QC issues do my head in and I’ve had a couple of turtles. When the king came out I wanted one but again, QC issues. I solved the problem by buying a steel dive turtle for £110 and everything lines up perfectly and it’s actually really good quality. The bracelet is rubbish but £70 later it’s sitting on a “Tropic” strap and is now one of my favourite watches. £180 all in for sapphire, ceramic, seiko movement and genuine tropic strap. It’s worth a go guys.
How does the Steeldive quality feel compared to the Seiko? Just wondering because my only Chinese special so far (a Pagani Daytona) really doesn’t feel great compared to a Seiko. It’s very flat looking and the bracelet has sharp edges. But I keep hearing good things about Steeldive.
@@alastairheptonstall7982 I’ve got an AddiesDive, which I think is a Steeldive sister company, Capt. Willard. The bracelet is better than the Pagani watches I have but the head of the watch is gorgeous. Brilliant lume, brilliant bezel action and loads of AR under the sapphire. Cost me about £70 and looks incredible on a decent NATO or Marine National etc. One of my favourite Chinese homages I’ve bought and I’ve got 9 or 10 at various price points from various companies.
I bought the SPRE 07 (save the ocean) for around $400, I got the 'k' model and when I got it there were a few issues. The chapter ring was actually pretty good, but the bezel is slightly off, you but I can align it on the half click. But the most offensive item was a huge piece of dust on the dial. I decided to take the caseback off, and clean off the dial. When doing this I noticed a pretty bad fingerprint on the underside of the crystal (not mine I wear latex gloves when doing watch things). But I cleaned that too and put everything back together and I now absolutely love this turtle.
I got me the Save the Ocean version last year, it's fantastic and it aligns perfectly. Also got an Uncle Seiko waffle rubber to complete the package. Cyclops?...., got used to it
Yup the first thing I would do, I always heat it with a soldering iron untill the glue turns white and then chop it off with a utility knife, It does not leave a mark on sapphire, you just have to be carefull not to nick the bezel with the knife.
Seiko is still struggling with basic QC issues that microbrands a fraction of their size do not seem to have. The unimpressive value for money, sub par QC and cheap bracelet, for an asking price over $500 make this a hard pass. You can only ride on your past laurels for so long. That Seiko seems involved in this life and death struggle to deliver anything resembling value for money, for well over 10 years now, compared to the competition, really makes me wonder where their head is at.
Their sharp edge presage line are more expensive but you get a lot more for the money. My titanium gmt was 1400 but it's titanium, titanium H link bracelet, titanium milled clasp, signed crown, sapphire crystal and case back.
Not Seiko proper...only from subcontractors in China that assemble their lesser models. You will never see a Seiko assembled in Japan with these issues. I bought a Seiko 5 GMT that I later learned was assembled in China. The moment I opened the box, I could see substantial condensation on the inside of the crystal. I opened the case and saw it had no case back gasket whatsoever. There were also greasy fingerprints, dirt and God-knows what else inside the case. They must have hired monkeys to assemble it ...outdoors...in a dust storm. My chapter ring and cyclops was also way out of alignment. I love the brand but will never make this mistake again. J-models only
@@Donnybrook10 I see everyone dismiss the J versions as not having any differences with the K1 versions. Well I have 5 Seikos, 3 of them are J1 made in Japan and they are perfect. My 2 K1 watches are misaligned.
I didn't have to mod my mm200 either. However, I am considering placing it's dial/movement into an aftermarket SKX case to make a daily wearer that I'm not afraid to scratch.....🤔 Add a clear case back to show off the decorated 6r15 rotor, a double domed sapphire crystal, and a shiny ceramic bezel insert and it could be a winner!
Liked the shot when you had the watch on the wrist and your hand in the pocket. Gave me a good understanding of how the wath looks on wrist. Keep em comming!
Nice design overall, and the sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel are definitely a plus! Seiko is stepping up their designs to compete with the Chinese brands. I like it a lot. I do wonder if the bracelet will fit my 8 1/2” wrist? Great review as always Jody!!!!
Huh?? I think you have that reversed. Anything produced in China is 1. Stolen IP 2. Junk 3. Poorly assembled 4. Likely dirty. Case in point...this watch. There was a time when countries around the world refused to do business with the Chi-Coms because of their human rights abuses, constant violations of International and Contract Law and environmental rape. Typical Communist shit. The only reason products can be produced more economically in China is because they're made with slave labor or close to it. Our desire to save a few bucks has built that rabid dog into a world super-power...and a hostile on at that. Plant corn, get corn.
I have an SRPA21J1 - Japanese PADI "Pepsi" Turtle, and the alignment is perfect. I've seen some of the Malaysian versions having chapter rings off by nearly a minute.
Got the manta ray a month ago. Preferred to pay a little less if i looked sites like Jomashop, but my watch itch was strong and got it from the seiko store full price. For my experience, it was worth it. My manta ray was suddenly -5 to -15 minutes a day and i had to return it to seiko and exchanged it with this black one. Now my new turtle is -2 to -4 sec/day keeping perfect time. Thanks for the seiko shop for being a good sport.
P.S: If i bought from Jomashop, i can only get it by cargo shipping to my country and the exchanging would've taken ages and there was a risk of getting another defected one.
I have an amazing green King Turtle on rubber and my movement says made in Japan on the dial and caseback. Alignment is absolutely spot on as is accuracy +2 on the wrist and back to zero overnight in position. I also got it for a great price on Cyber Monday from a large dept store, low $400's. Apparently the earliest versions have the Japanese movement? Thanks for the reviews!
I must admit that I'm a huge Seiko fan boy... but perhaps it's quite telling that I've NEVER owned a Seiko dive watch! Pro Tip #452: It's hard to mis-align the chapter ring if your Presage model doesn't have one! 😁
I picked up the Steeldive 1970 for just over 100 usd. Indexes line up, no cyclops, signed crown, and AR coating. I can't see paying another 300 usd for this one. Great review though, thanks Jodi. Happy New Year!
I picked up the Olive Drab version SRPE05 back in November. You’re spot on with the bezel alignment. It’s just a hair off. No problem with the cyclops, and I chose not to indulge in the stainless bracelet for the very reasons that you’ve discussed yourself. All-in-all though, it’s on my wrist at the moment (by chance) and I still enjoy it thoroughly! Great review! Note: I paid US $445.00 for this piece.
What a gorgeous watch! The Sumo, I mean ;-) Congrats on that one - I love my Hulk Sumo. I rate Turtles really highly - SRPD11, SRPC44 & SRPD21 are all in my collection. The '21 is on a bandolier bracelet and weighs about 230g. But it is incredibly hard to see past the QC issues. I've been lucky enough to inspect mine before purchase and select decent examples, but that's only possible if you buy in person. The solution is LIW - the #ISL-30 has all the features of this King Turtle (no cyclops- bonus) but costs only $299 and comes with a scissor deployant clasp. The case is slightly different but wears incredibly well (I own an ISL31).
Seiko Divers are incredible Never have to worry about these watches stopping etc... Love Divers I have 6105 proof 6309 Gold turtle And still look at them in Awe Thanks for video
I used mine as a beater and in the water (diving, surfing…and shenanigans). Misaligned, dial a little “off”, and well beaten. But every time I put it on, I heard Jimmy Buffet (RIP) and the pirate in me came out to play. That’s the essences of Seiko divers to me.
After wearing my BFK on the metal bracelet with the stamped clasp for more than 10 years daily I can judge this type of Seiko clasp from experience. It is excellent, still functions and sounds like on day one. Also like the slimmer profile compared to milled clasps.
Great review. I had a look at one of these in a local shop the other day. The bezel didn't quite line up ... looked about the same as the one you have reviewed - but the cyclops lens was perfect. So hit & miss on quality control. The bracelet is a real letdown for $999.00 _ although they offered me $75 off _ I didn't think it was enough of a discount to buy it. But it looks and feels great on the wrist. If it was just a little cheaper, as I like to buy from local shops to keep local people employed.
Excellent review as always! I might have to look into one of these--perfect size for me. Maybe not the best value around, but within the confines of Seikoland, this seems pretty compelling. I didn't realize they had sapphire crystals and ceramic inserts. The pressed clasp might bother me and that fiber would definitely bother me. But those are fixable... Thanks Jody!
As ever, a great review. Personally I just could not live with the misalignment of the cyclops in particular and it’s one of the hardest bits to correct!
Happy with my SRPE39 Special Edition for $387. First King Turtle and only Seiko I bought in 2022. I like the reissue models but not the $1000 plus prices which is why I prefer homages from Steeldive and Heimdalr these days. Good review as usual.
nice review jody! I got the green one myself & I’m very happy with it. It’s maybe worth mentioning that the case size is 45mm. However, if you measure the outer part of the bezel, it’s 42mm, so it makes the watch look even smaller, especially if you swap out the bracelet for a rubber strap. ✌🏻
Cheers Jody! Great review - as always! ;) I have never been a big fan of the turtle until they released the king turtle. But, watching your video and seeing all these flaws (misalignments and QC), I'm quite done with the lower level Seikos. Don't get me wrong, I'm no watch snob, owning 3 SKXs and other Seikos, several Orients, China watches and others. Yesterday I just received my Glycine Combat Sub Soda from the US. I bought it on "Drop" and not pre-owned, as I usually do. So it comes with full warranty. And I am absolutely happy with it. And here is the point: I payed 275 USD new! There are no QC issues at all, it has a better (Selita= Swiss) movement (in my eyes) and wears supet-comfy! And, in comparison to that, Seiko can go home and do their homework! Looking forward to your next video! Cheers, Adam
These are really fine watches. Bought mine for $112 delivered, with the NH-35A movement, sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel. It is called the SteelDive 1970. The Seiko homage to the Captain Willard is also nice, but seems kind of pricy considering the difference in movement/quality materials/fit-finish. Spent another $25 for a 20mm s.s. brushed lug (with side polished) bracelet with MACHINED clasp. For variety, also bought a MAIKES leather strap with deployment clasp for $18. The chocolate-brown leather strap really goes well with the Green dial/bezel, IMO. As for LUME...the Steeldive lume is excellent AND the bezel is also lumed. Best part, you do not pay extra for that bezel lume!
I haven’t been a fan of the turtle but this on wrist looks spot on...it really looks like it wears comfortable but stands out at the same time. Just wish the QC issues would be addressed for the price.
Finally caved and got one. I was able to get the srpg19, for 371 usd shipped off eBay from an AD. That’s the same price as the regular turtle at Long Island Watch.
just found youe site. i have 5 Seiko dive watches and the first thing i did was check the bezel's all 5 of mine are spot on, must be just lucky i guess.
Such a shame. There are so many Seiko divers I’d happily buy if they sorted their QC out. If they can’t be arsed to sort it out I’ll stick with other brands. I refuse to pay for crap just because of the brand name . Great review as always, thanks mate.
I ordered the green grenade dial on rubber from Macy’s.com, I had it overnighted but they apparently didn’t have it in stock so they kept lying, I called customer service like 5 times so they eventually refunded my shipping fee and gave me the watch for 380$ usd, I still get a kick every time I look down at it for how beautiful it is and the price I got it at👌🏼plus it has the best bezel action I’ve ever felt on any of my seiko’s including my king samurai
Thanks for the review, Jody! Great job, as always. But I have completely given up on seiko watches. Their quality control issues (misaligned dials) and refusal to use sapphire crystal killed my respect for this brand. Especially when I can get much more value for my money with Chinese manufacturers and micro brands. Keep up the great work, sir!
My last Seiko purchased, a black and blue latest-gen Monster, fortunately had everything line up properly including the rectangular cyclops. But I for one am fed up with them and their spotty build quality and attention to detail. It seems as though these days you’d have to pony up for a Grand Seiko or a least a Prospex LX to get what you should be getting from any of their watches regardless of level or whether it is a JDM. Thanks for sharing this though!
I got mine around Black Friday for about $400 US. Love the value for money and the looks. I know what you mean about the chapter ring, Jody. It’s not perfect by any means. But no watch is, and an ISO certified Diver from Seiko (no, I’m not a fanboy, Seiko isn’t infallible) with sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel for the price? It’ll be a keeper for me. Can’t wait for the Sumo review. Cheers!
The macro shots do a really good job of showing how rough around the edges these Seikos really are, though you might have better luck with the J model. China's not all that known for their QC. Just depends if China sources their own case components or if Seiko sends them their case components. The Spinnaker Dumas I got recently (Thanks for the 20% off, Jody!) is much more refined for roughly the same price with the discount.
I just bought the Save the Ocean after the Steeldive Willard homage I had helped me fall in love with the Turtle case shape. The specs of the Ali Express match up on paper but fit and finish of it all were way off Seiko in terms of brushing, sharp edges, polished bits etc.
Can you show us a movement maintenance video? Aka a movement swap. It's something I've been worried about performing when the time comes. Great review and I will see you in the next one.
Seems like if you want quality, it's very sad but forget Seiko. Ok if your paying less than £100 for snk803/5/9. You can still get SNZH55K1 for $150+, mine is old and got second hand, dont know how typical it is. Everything lines up, really nice bracelet. No screw down crown, so not really a diver in my book, but I am not going diving. Popped in an NH36a and it's great.
None of my Seiko's line up flawlessly, but there is something about them that I enjoy haha. Iconic designs certainly seem to give them a free pass in fit and finish.
I lucked out on my green king turtle and everything lines up nicely! Mine i had to regulate though, it was running +15 😡🤬😡. Now it’s running at ZERO and I’m chuffed to bits with it. I’m going back and forth between this and my BB Black
Serious Q ... with Long Island Watch and the higher-tier Ali clones (Steeldive, Heimdaller, etc), is an actual Seiko worth it? I got a SD1970 NoLogo Willard late last Summer & I am still enamored with it.
Your HELLOOOOOO! scares the shit out of my dog! 😅 It amazes me, that even with Seikos strong brand, they are able to consistently sell big numbers of watches with such cost savings and poor quality control. That bracelet and clasp, and that chapter ring and bezel alignment at that price point, sweetbebbyjizzus!!! Imagine if any other watch brand did that it this price? Their reputation would be shot out of the water, but with Seiko it's 'Haha, but it's a Seiko, it's what they do'. There are so many decent watches on the market now at half the price. I have a couple of Seikos, so I'm not a hater, it just astounds me they can continue as they do.
Loved the review with your unique sense of humour! Why not like this from the beginning, Seiko? It's still a Seiko though with some if it's 'signature' flaws! 😆 Cheers mate!
I bought one this week,£413.00 in a sale local authorised jeweller. Put it straight on a rubber strap as the bracelet is quite heavy.the bezel is just off the 12 marker,but the cyclops is positioned correctly. Only moan is mines running 15 seconds slow over 24 hours.love the watch though.
thanks for this reiview of the king turtle. I know I am not looking to update my SRPC91 with this. I still really like the whole range of seiko divers, but, somehow they are not quite able to close the deal with my wallet hand these days. (I just got home this week after being sort of stuck abroad for a year due to covid travel restrictions, and found all the watches I have bought over the past 14 months waiting for me. There were 4 dive style watches there, but the only Seiko in the group was a 50 year old casual/dress watch. So, for me I guess the value argument of Seiko is just not convincing enough, or I am not paying enough attention to when retailers are offering the type of discount you found on your King Turtle.
You've GOTTA treat Yourself 'here & there' ..Crimbo is deffo One of those times for sure tho! Nice watch!..love the dial!..Everytime I watch one of Your videos.. I end up wanting another Watch!..gonna get expensive watchin' you pal!
My friend bought an SKX online. When he received it, he felt it might be a fake. The bezel and indices were perfectly aligned...
Hello was it fake cause I bought it feels fake
😅
I bought this king turtle, its indexes are perfectly aligned. log deviation -1 second. You made me suspicious too 🤣🤣🤣
My procedure when ordering a Seiko diver online is as follows, especially when ordering from a smaller retailer. In the order notes I write the following “Prior to sending, please ensure the bezel insert, chapter ring and dial are all aligned properly to save us both the hassle of me sending it back to you”. It let’s them know I’m one of “those” watch collectors and hasn’t failed me yet. 🤪
Good strategy will be looking to getting a seiko diver in person at a jewellers
Please don't stop making these videos. There are honestly so many watches to talk and learn about. You are the one stop shop for honesty, comedy, and a well written, cohesive video. Thank you for being you and please... Keep being you!
"Does everything line up?" *dramatic pause* "Of course it doesn't!" lololololololol
Just like Glock, Seiko Divers are the Honda Accord of the watch world.
The candy bar cyclops is a good idea, but seiko can't seem to line it up properly over the day - date on the dial.
I think Seiko intentionally makes amateur mistakes on all models to boost Grand Seiko sales. Thing is I would NEVER buy any Seiko with all I've seen from thier lower lines. If they cant be arsed to make a trued watch for thier lower lines then they dont respect themselves enough for me to consider anything from them.
I believe that it’s worth saying that the pressed clasp is honestly very comfortable. And despite what people say, the basic bracelets on these Seikos and Orients are very smooth and comfortable despite them not being exactly cost reflective...
That's right. One thing is specs and the other how it wears.
@@Ktrb Plus its nice to know that if you have one, the other, or both, that they will feel familiar with their sizing. I've found the clasps to be very secure too! Also don't see the point in spending almost the price of the watch (in some cases) to upgrade an already great bracelet to a nicer milled one on these. Only thing that is probably worth it is a crystal mod in my opinion. I tend to be a bit clumsy with watches and would rather see a scratched up pressed clasp than a scuffed up and scratched mineral...
They are smooth and somewhat comfortable but they don’t taper much so it’s uncomfortable to wear long term for me. I’d rather get the strapcode bracelet and add the marine master clasp. Perfect combo imo
There's a third option - you can get a regular old turtle _and not mod it._ I've worn my SRP773 on most days for close to three years, day and night, and even though the case is scratched up, the crystal remains flawless.
What sacrifices were required or what black magic do you know for this to be the case??? I've never had a watch with hardlex that didn't acquire a bunch of scratches if I wear it regularly.
Blocks of chocolate and grenades? Sounds like a party.
Where you been spending your nights?
@@Electrobilia LEBANON!
instablaster...
Jody, you should review the Islander watches. His " versions" of the seikowatches are pretty great value.....for the $$$$$
Interesting how all the reviewers are steering clear of those.
@@jonathans2281 that's a very good observation.
@@jonathans2281 I got to tell you....I own one....and the quality of the bracelet ,the double domed sapphire crystal, and the lume...... Are all first rate.
@@jonathans2281 That's because Marc includes return packaging. He doesn't give away the watches to buy reviews, they have to give them back after review. Maybe one of Jody's friends will get one some day to loan for rewiew.
@@paulhart2021 I watch Marc's videos and love them. And he seems like a very knowledgeable dude. And I believe his watches are probably better than the ones they mimic. But they turn me off too. I'd be more inclined to buy an Islander if it was more an evolution of something rather than a blatant copy of something. I mean, the spare parts of an SKX007 are interchangeable with the Islander. It's like he's going to the best SKX counterfeiter and saying, "yeah, but I don't want the Seiko logo. I want my logo. You can do that? Great. Here's my credit card #" But I believe an Islander watch is probably an incredible value.
That chapter ring might as well be living next door.
I don’t think Jody even knows which bezel click to leave it set at 12 🤣
I got the Manta King Turtle, and I was like, "So THIS is "New Seiko"? The bezel is perfectly aligned! ...wait. The effing cyclops!!!" 🤣
Same - cyclops out of alignment (I was concentrating on the bezel)
Almost got the Manta but went with the black grenade dial Manta Dial sure looks cool though.
I love my manta had to send the 1st one I bought back tho cyclops was misaligned
The cyclops lenses on the king Turtles all seem to be positioned wonky. If they can't or don't want to put them on properly then they should just leave them off.
Stuck on the island of Bali during this pandemic and needed a decent swim, surf, snorkel watch...Seiko Indonesia had a sale a few months ago and delivered from Jakarta came in at AUD$525 for the same model...a tad weighty but retro cool and does the job nicely...thanks for your reassuring review
My cyclops by the way is dead straight; i may get the silicone strap, that is a good idea
The quality control is horrendous.
@@Exotic-P did you not watch the video?
Especially with their price increase in the last years totally unacceptable.
If misalignment is an issue for you, you should turn your head to the J model. Japanese people care what they do
@@Exotic-P I will try and give you a useful answer to a good question. I think that the quality control complaints that most watch enthusiasts have with Seiko center around appearance matters, not the actual functioning of the watch. Most seem to be that the markers on the face of the watch do not align with the tick marks on the bezel around the face, or that the second hand does not stop in a second tick mark on the face, or in this case that the magnifying bubble on the crystal does not align with the day/date windows. It is frustrating to many people, because Casio can make all these things line up on a $45.00 watch, yet Seiko does not seem to want to correct the problem on $600 watches. Welcome to the watch community. Most people are pretty friendly and helpful.
@@ianbutler1983 The watch is "Chi-com".........Though the Chinese are capable of making very high quality, it appears Seiko has "chosen" a "substandard" manufacturing and/or quality control to save $$$...... You are correct, on $600 watches, these issues should be "gone." Trying not "bash" Seiko, IMO they are over rated. I have had several movements fail with in a year. The quality is on par with DG and other Chinese movements but the Chinese Movements end up being less. They are good watches but I just feel you do not get the "best bang for your $$".
Great looking watch. Just wish they would fix the QC issues as you said
Yeah, but they won't!
It will never happen with Seiko
A misaligned chapter ring is how you know it is Genuine Seiko.
@@MrMadvillan Seiko fanboy
At this point it's just better for Seiko to license their brand to San Martins, Steeldives, and Paganis of the world. Horrible QC at laughable prices.
San Martin are absolutely killing it at the moment, such a good watch for the money, and zero quality control issues on mine. Sapphire, ceramic, milled clasp....
Well I have a San Martin with a misaligned chapter ring...
@@andrewhannam. that's a rare one, look after it, it's an investment piece 😄
@@shanephillips8735 I have no problem with it really since it is not off by much and the model is the older turtle case (Seiko doesn't make that version) and the waffle rubber strap is the best rubber strap I have ever had (Seiko, uncle Seiko, Zelos)
None of my Pagani watches have come without QC issues, I wouldn't put them in the same basket as San Martin.
Omfg that fiber in there felt like a punch in the liver!
It looks more like a curly hair, that's the deal breaker!
“Does everything line up? ... NO” 😂 Another great review. Can’t wait to see the Sumo Gen 3 video.
I’m on the fence with this one. Price not bad, style...definitely on the cool wall😉. But the fact the case is made in China and the QC issues😱. Basically just buy a Steeldive SD1970 and it has better QC, also everything lines up. As a side benefit it lets you keep a chunk of change in you pocket or to buy more Vostok’s😂.
I have both… they are really close.. the bezel is better on the seiko and… the Lumed Bezel on the SD rocks…. My seiko was a xmas gift. Would i buy it now? Nah… would get the SD1972 daydate for 100 bucks.
I own this and an omega Seamaster 300m professional.
This Seiko gets worn a lot more! Love it..
And thank goodness all my indeces do line up
I am a big seiko fan boy. Think it’s the nostalgia of being a 70s child. I’ve got a 1972 pogue which is a birth year watch and just bought a snowflake which I love. I bought the European limited edition alpinist but it’s sitting in the box unworn as the inner bezel doesn’t line up but it will go up in value eventually so it will stay in the cupboard. Anyway, the QC issues do my head in and I’ve had a couple of turtles. When the king came out I wanted one but again, QC issues. I solved the problem by buying a steel dive turtle for £110 and everything lines up perfectly and it’s actually really good quality. The bracelet is rubbish but £70 later it’s sitting on a “Tropic” strap and is now one of my favourite watches. £180 all in for sapphire, ceramic, seiko movement and genuine tropic strap. It’s worth a go guys.
How does the Steeldive quality feel compared to the Seiko? Just wondering because my only Chinese special so far (a Pagani Daytona) really doesn’t feel great compared to a Seiko. It’s very flat looking and the bracelet has sharp edges. But I keep hearing good things about Steeldive.
@@alastairheptonstall7982 I’ve got an AddiesDive, which I think is a Steeldive sister company, Capt. Willard. The bracelet is better than the Pagani watches I have but the head of the watch is gorgeous. Brilliant lume, brilliant bezel action and loads of AR under the sapphire. Cost me about £70 and looks incredible on a decent NATO or Marine National etc. One of my favourite Chinese homages I’ve bought and I’ve got 9 or 10 at various price points from various companies.
@@nathski22 thanks, very helpful!
@@alastairheptonstall7982 no worries! Any questions just shout
I bought the SPRE 07 (save the ocean) for around $400, I got the 'k' model and when I got it there were a few issues. The chapter ring was actually pretty good, but the bezel is slightly off, you but I can align it on the half click. But the most offensive item was a huge piece of dust on the dial. I decided to take the caseback off, and clean off the dial. When doing this I noticed a pretty bad fingerprint on the underside of the crystal (not mine I wear latex gloves when doing watch things). But I cleaned that too and put everything back together and I now absolutely love this turtle.
I got me the Save the Ocean version last year, it's fantastic and it aligns perfectly. Also got an Uncle Seiko waffle rubber to complete the package. Cyclops?...., got used to it
'...it was a rather expensive Christmas'. Mrs Jody rolls her eyes again.
i bet he sells it, he even makes money because it has warranty and is kinda new
Ripping that cyclops off would be considered modding, wouldn't it?
You wrote my comment for me!
Yup the first thing I would do, I always heat it with a soldering iron untill the glue turns white and then chop it off with a utility knife, It does not leave a mark on sapphire, you just have to be carefull not to nick the bezel with the knife.
Bruce Williams burnt the cyclops off his monster gen 4 with a blowtorch.
@@JinKee me too...built up enough pressure in the case to blow the crystal out...don’t do it.
Seiko is still struggling with basic QC issues that microbrands a fraction of their size do not seem to have. The unimpressive value for money, sub par QC and cheap bracelet, for an asking price over $500 make this a hard pass. You can only ride on your past laurels for so long. That Seiko seems involved in this life and death struggle to deliver anything resembling value for money, for well over 10 years now, compared to the competition, really makes me wonder where their head is at.
It really is distressing. You’d think that with such a long and storied history, there would be a sense of pride in workmanship.
Their sharp edge presage line are more expensive but you get a lot more for the money. My titanium gmt was 1400 but it's titanium, titanium H link bracelet, titanium milled clasp, signed crown, sapphire crystal and case back.
Not Seiko proper...only from subcontractors in China that assemble their lesser models. You will never see a Seiko assembled in Japan with these issues. I bought a Seiko 5 GMT that I later learned was assembled in China. The moment I opened the box, I could see substantial condensation on the inside of the crystal. I opened the case and saw it had no case back gasket whatsoever. There were also greasy fingerprints, dirt and God-knows what else inside the case. They must have hired monkeys to assemble it ...outdoors...in a dust storm. My chapter ring and cyclops was also way out of alignment. I love the brand but will never make this mistake again. J-models only
@@Donnybrook10 I see everyone dismiss the J versions as not having any differences with the K1 versions. Well I have 5 Seikos, 3 of them are J1 made in Japan and they are perfect. My 2 K1 watches are misaligned.
I picked this up last year and it's such a beautiful watch. Highly recommend checking out prices at Starbuy if you're in Sydney!
Honestly that's too much for misaligned parts and fibers in the case...
If misalignment is an issue for you, you should turn your head to the J model. Japanese people care what they do
@@carlosgarciacontreras2842 that’s a myth.
I didn't have to mod my mm200 either.
However, I am considering placing it's dial/movement into an aftermarket SKX case to make a daily wearer that I'm not afraid to scratch.....🤔
Add a clear case back to show off the decorated 6r15 rotor, a double domed sapphire crystal, and a shiny ceramic bezel insert and it could be a winner!
I actually thought "Hey, maybe everything lines up!". Oh Seiko, what did you do to me
That's gotta go back to the shop. Shocking assembly!
Thats exactly what you should do, send it back and get it swapped. If people made a fuss something would have to change
Liked the shot when you had the watch on the wrist and your hand in the pocket. Gave me a good understanding of how the wath looks on wrist. Keep em comming!
Seiko digging it's own grave. Just not worth the new prices, especially with a dice roll in QC.
@Nigel Molesworth with the prices going up they are getting out of reach of the typical department store watch shopping crowd.
@@MrMadvillan I think that will be the Chinese.
I suppose that’s what happens when you buy online in the grey market...you cant inspect the watch as thoroughly, if at all
The market disagrees
@@jonathans2281 department store shoppers dont buy seiko automatic dive watches.
Nice design overall, and the sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel are definitely a plus! Seiko is stepping up their designs to compete with the Chinese brands. I like it a lot. I do wonder if the bracelet will fit my 8 1/2” wrist? Great review as always Jody!!!!
Huh?? I think you have that reversed. Anything produced in China is 1. Stolen IP 2. Junk 3. Poorly assembled 4. Likely dirty. Case in point...this watch. There was a time when countries around the world refused to do business with the Chi-Coms because of their human rights abuses, constant violations of International and Contract Law and environmental rape. Typical Communist shit. The only reason products can be produced more economically in China is because they're made with slave labor or close to it. Our desire to save a few bucks has built that rabid dog into a world super-power...and a hostile on at that. Plant corn, get corn.
I have an SRPA21J1 - Japanese PADI "Pepsi" Turtle, and the alignment is perfect. I've seen some of the Malaysian versions having chapter rings off by nearly a minute.
Got the manta ray a month ago. Preferred to pay a little less if i looked sites like Jomashop, but my watch itch was strong and got it from the seiko store full price. For my experience, it was worth it. My manta ray was suddenly -5 to -15 minutes a day and i had to return it to seiko and exchanged it with this black one. Now my new turtle is -2 to -4 sec/day keeping perfect time. Thanks for the seiko shop for being a good sport.
P.S: If i bought from Jomashop, i can only get it by cargo shipping to my country and the exchanging would've taken ages and there was a risk of getting another defected one.
I have an amazing green King Turtle on rubber and my movement says made in Japan on the dial and caseback. Alignment is absolutely spot on as is accuracy +2 on the wrist and back to zero overnight in position. I also got it for a great price on Cyber Monday from a large dept store, low $400's. Apparently the earliest versions have the Japanese movement? Thanks for the reviews!
Let me know if you’re ever selling! I love the green
This is the most interesting Seiko that I've seen in a couple of years.
I must admit that I'm a huge Seiko fan boy... but perhaps it's quite telling that I've NEVER owned a Seiko dive watch!
Pro Tip #452: It's hard to mis-align the chapter ring if your Presage model doesn't have one! 😁
I'm just not hot for the turtle/pillow cases. I like the samurai.
I picked up the Steeldive 1970 for just over 100 usd. Indexes line up, no cyclops, signed crown, and AR coating. I can't see paying another 300 usd for this one. Great review though, thanks Jodi. Happy New Year!
Just got one myself. I'm a fan. Great video.
I picked up the Olive Drab version SRPE05 back in November. You’re spot on with the bezel alignment. It’s just a hair off. No problem with the cyclops, and I chose not to indulge in the stainless bracelet for the very reasons that you’ve discussed yourself. All-in-all though, it’s on my wrist at the moment (by chance) and I still enjoy it thoroughly! Great review! Note: I paid US $445.00 for this piece.
What a gorgeous watch! The Sumo, I mean ;-) Congrats on that one - I love my Hulk Sumo.
I rate Turtles really highly - SRPD11, SRPC44 & SRPD21 are all in my collection. The '21 is on a bandolier bracelet and weighs about 230g. But it is incredibly hard to see past the QC issues. I've been lucky enough to inspect mine before purchase and select decent examples, but that's only possible if you buy in person. The solution is LIW - the #ISL-30 has all the features of this King Turtle (no cyclops- bonus) but costs only $299 and comes with a scissor deployant clasp. The case is slightly different but wears incredibly well (I own an ISL31).
It's seems to be a Chinese copy, approved by Seiko.
I think Chinese copies nowadays at least have decent alignment.
You’re a delight to watch!! Thanks for the fun way of watching watches.
Seiko Divers are incredible
Never have to worry about these watches stopping etc...
Love Divers
I have 6105 proof
6309
Gold turtle
And still look at them in Awe
Thanks for video
I used mine as a beater and in the water (diving, surfing…and shenanigans).
Misaligned, dial a little “off”, and well beaten.
But every time I put it on, I heard Jimmy Buffet (RIP) and the pirate in me came out to play.
That’s the essences of Seiko divers to me.
After wearing my BFK on the metal bracelet with the stamped clasp for more than 10 years daily I can judge this type of Seiko clasp from experience. It is excellent, still functions and sounds like on day one. Also like the slimmer profile compared to milled clasps.
Great review. I had a look at one of these in a local shop the other day. The bezel didn't quite line up ... looked about the same as the one you have reviewed - but the cyclops lens was perfect. So hit & miss on quality control. The bracelet is a real letdown for $999.00 _ although they offered me $75 off _ I didn't think it was enough of a discount to buy it. But it looks and feels great on the wrist. If it was just a little cheaper, as I like to buy from local shops to keep local people employed.
I think the cyclops is a great feature, particularly for someone who has vision problems.
Turtle is my favorite seiko of all time. It’s absolutely stunning. I wear my save the ocean turtle on a strapcode jubilee and it’s my favorite watch
I think for now I'll stick to my Steeldive SD1970, I love it to bits and for £100 it was an absolute bargain. Great review as usual though.
Excellent review as always! I might have to look into one of these--perfect size for me. Maybe not the best value around, but within the confines of Seikoland, this seems pretty compelling. I didn't realize they had sapphire crystals and ceramic inserts. The pressed clasp might bother me and that fiber would definitely bother me. But those are fixable... Thanks Jody!
i bought My San Martin datejust and it was perfectly aligned. no excuses for Seiko
As ever, a great review. Personally I just could not live with the misalignment of the cyclops in particular and it’s one of the hardest bits to correct!
Happy with my SRPE39 Special Edition for $387. First King Turtle and only Seiko I bought in 2022. I like the reissue models but not the $1000 plus prices which is why I prefer homages from Steeldive and Heimdalr these days. Good review as usual.
nice review jody! I got the green one myself & I’m very happy with it. It’s maybe worth mentioning that the case size is 45mm. However, if you measure the outer part of the bezel, it’s 42mm, so it makes the watch look even smaller, especially if you swap out the bracelet for a rubber strap. ✌🏻
It's a looker but that squinty cyclops would probably annoy me after a while.
annoyed me after about 2 seconds, not to mention the usual problems with misalignment and average bracelet. pass for me
@@iainhuddart8496 it's not very good when a big company like Seiko can't make it all line up properly. Id prefer to get an orient
@@davidbridge5652 no, they take customers for granted that's for sure.
Cheers Jody!
Great review - as always! ;)
I have never been a big fan of the turtle until they released the king turtle. But, watching your video and seeing all these flaws (misalignments and QC), I'm quite done with the lower level Seikos. Don't get me wrong, I'm no watch snob, owning 3 SKXs and other Seikos, several Orients, China watches and others.
Yesterday I just received my Glycine Combat Sub Soda from the US. I bought it on "Drop" and not pre-owned, as I usually do. So it comes with full warranty. And I am absolutely happy with it. And here is the point: I payed 275 USD new! There are no QC issues at all, it has a better (Selita= Swiss) movement (in my eyes) and wears supet-comfy! And, in comparison to that, Seiko can go home and do their homework!
Looking forward to your next video!
Cheers,
Adam
I am giving this Seiko video a thumbs up for the humor value alone ! ♥ 0:57 had me laughing so loudly, i think my neighbour heard me.
These are really fine watches. Bought mine for $112 delivered, with the NH-35A movement, sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel. It is called the SteelDive 1970. The Seiko homage to the Captain Willard is also nice, but seems kind of pricy considering the difference in movement/quality materials/fit-finish. Spent another $25 for a 20mm s.s. brushed lug (with side polished) bracelet with MACHINED clasp. For variety, also bought a MAIKES leather strap with deployment clasp for $18. The chocolate-brown leather strap really goes well with the Green dial/bezel, IMO. As for LUME...the Steeldive lume is excellent AND the bezel is also lumed. Best part, you do not pay extra for that bezel lume!
I haven’t been a fan of the turtle but this on wrist looks spot on...it really looks like it wears comfortable but stands out at the same time. Just wish the QC issues would be addressed for the price.
Lucky enough to have had this bought for me for this month for my 50th - I love it.
I honestly don't like most seiko diver's but I could totally go for this one! Great vid Jody! ⌚
Finally caved and got one. I was able to get the srpg19, for 371 usd shipped off eBay from an AD. That’s the same price as the regular turtle at Long Island Watch.
Great looking watch. Price is reasonable...but things MUST LINE UP! Thank you for dropping an F bomb about it.
just found youe site. i have 5 Seiko dive watches and the first thing i did was check the bezel's all 5 of mine are spot on, must be just lucky i guess.
Such a shame. There are so many Seiko divers I’d happily buy if they sorted their QC out. If they can’t be arsed to sort it out I’ll stick with other brands. I refuse to pay for crap just because of the brand name . Great review as always, thanks mate.
That ‚Super King Turtle‘ you’re asking for is the SPB151, and you weren’t satisfied with that one either 😂
Another great video, but that level of poor QC is why I could never see myself spending Hamilton or Tissot money on a Seiko...
Nice video ty! QC wise assembled in China is the alignment problem full stop. Cheers!
Best blog concerning watches . congratulations and thanks !
I ordered the green grenade dial on rubber from Macy’s.com, I had it overnighted but they apparently didn’t have it in stock so they kept lying, I called customer service like 5 times so they eventually refunded my shipping fee and gave me the watch for 380$ usd, I still get a kick every time I look down at it for how beautiful it is and the price I got it at👌🏼plus it has the best bezel action I’ve ever felt on any of my seiko’s including my king samurai
Thanks for the review, Jody! Great job, as always. But I have completely given up on seiko watches. Their quality control issues (misaligned dials) and refusal to use sapphire crystal killed my respect for this brand. Especially when I can get much more value for my money with Chinese manufacturers and micro brands. Keep up the great work, sir!
My last Seiko purchased, a black and blue latest-gen Monster, fortunately had everything line up properly including the rectangular cyclops. But I for one am fed up with them and their spotty build quality and attention to detail. It seems as though these days you’d have to pony up for a Grand Seiko or a least a Prospex LX to get what you should be getting from any of their watches regardless of level or whether it is a JDM. Thanks for sharing this though!
Pretty sure Seiko gave most people what they wanted with the SPB143, this is just a blinged out turtle 😂
I got mine around Black Friday for about $400 US. Love the value for money and the looks. I know what you mean about the chapter ring, Jody. It’s not perfect by any means. But no watch is, and an ISO certified Diver from Seiko (no, I’m not a fanboy, Seiko isn’t infallible) with sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel for the price? It’ll be a keeper for me. Can’t wait for the Sumo review. Cheers!
Japanese culture is extremely ethnocentric, and hense the hilarious frustration, done so well Jody, is always taken with delishious appreciation🤣
The macro shots do a really good job of showing how rough around the edges these Seikos really are, though you might have better luck with the J model. China's not all that known for their QC. Just depends if China sources their own case components or if Seiko sends them their case components.
The Spinnaker Dumas I got recently (Thanks for the 20% off, Jody!) is much more refined for roughly the same price with the discount.
I would love to see a comparison with a Chinese factory Capt. Willard. You get a better bracelet and probably better alignment for fewer clams.
I just bought the Save the Ocean after the Steeldive Willard homage I had helped me fall in love with the Turtle case shape. The specs of the Ali Express match up on paper but fit and finish of it all were way off Seiko in terms of brushing, sharp edges, polished bits etc.
You realise they use slave labour 🤔
Can you show us a movement maintenance video? Aka a movement swap. It's something I've been worried about performing when the time comes. Great review and I will see you in the next one.
Can’t deal with that misaligned candy bar cyclops, for the money Zelos everytime. Got myself a Blacktip Forged Carbon and it’s unreal.
It's wild how much more watch (or how much of a better watch) you can easily get for the same price from non-Seiko brands.
Seems like if you want quality, it's very sad but forget Seiko. Ok if your paying less than £100 for snk803/5/9. You can still get SNZH55K1 for $150+, mine is old and got second hand, dont know how typical it is. Everything lines up, really nice bracelet. No screw down crown, so not really a diver in my book, but I am not going diving. Popped in an NH36a and it's great.
I have 3 of these and baby turtle as well. Love them.
None of my Seiko's line up flawlessly, but there is something about them that I enjoy haha. Iconic designs certainly seem to give them a free pass in fit and finish.
Great video Jody, informative and entertaining as ever. All the best, Rob in Switzerland
I lucked out on my green king turtle and everything lines up nicely! Mine i had to regulate though, it was running +15 😡🤬😡. Now it’s running at ZERO and I’m chuffed to bits with it. I’m going back and forth between this and my BB Black
Serious Q ... with Long Island Watch and the higher-tier Ali clones (Steeldive, Heimdaller, etc), is an actual Seiko worth it? I got a SD1970 NoLogo Willard late last Summer & I am still enamored with it.
Your HELLOOOOOO! scares the shit out of my dog! 😅
It amazes me, that even with Seikos strong brand, they are able to consistently sell big numbers of watches with such cost savings and poor quality control. That bracelet and clasp, and that chapter ring and bezel alignment at that price point, sweetbebbyjizzus!!! Imagine if any other watch brand did that it this price? Their reputation would be shot out of the water, but with Seiko it's 'Haha, but it's a Seiko, it's what they do'. There are so many decent watches on the market now at half the price. I have a couple of Seikos, so I'm not a hater, it just astounds me they can continue as they do.
Loved the review with your unique sense of humour! Why not like this from the beginning, Seiko? It's still a Seiko though with some if it's 'signature' flaws! 😆 Cheers mate!
I bought one this week,£413.00 in a sale local authorised jeweller. Put it straight on a rubber strap as the bracelet is quite heavy.the bezel is just off the 12 marker,but the cyclops is positioned correctly. Only moan is mines running 15 seconds slow over 24 hours.love the watch though.
Merkur makes the best turtle.. 300m and awesome strap
thanks for this reiview of the king turtle. I know I am not looking to update my SRPC91 with this. I still really like the whole range of seiko divers, but, somehow they are not quite able to close the deal with my wallet hand these days. (I just got home this week after being sort of stuck abroad for a year due to covid travel restrictions, and found all the watches I have bought over the past 14 months waiting for me. There were 4 dive style watches there, but the only Seiko in the group was a 50 year old casual/dress watch. So, for me I guess the value argument of Seiko is just not convincing enough, or I am not paying enough attention to when retailers are offering the type of discount you found on your King Turtle.
Nice Jody. Also kudos for having ALMOST as many random tshirts as me :)
Love this watch especially the “candy bar cyclops”.
You've GOTTA treat Yourself 'here & there' ..Crimbo is deffo One of those times for sure tho!
Nice watch!..love the dial!..Everytime I watch one of Your videos.. I end up wanting another Watch!..gonna get expensive watchin' you pal!
Bought the black and save the ocean for 300us each from my AD. They are beautiful.
Seiko is kind of like modern Honda, raising prices and living off historical reputation for quality, but putting out crap.
Don't buy seiko anymore. Cant get the basics right. And too expensive now. There's plenty of better choices out there.
Ahem. Citizen. Ahem
Right on.
I don't remember asking Seiko for that godawful fisheye blob.
I just purchased thru starbuy seiko Prospex eucalyptus limited edition beautiful piece