I like to think of these two watches as people at a party: The Seiko is the average joe everyone likes but has neither special talents or flaws and is kinda forgettable while the Vostok is the awkward dude with his personal set of quirks that make him intriguing but not everyone's cup of tea. Great comparison as always! You're slowly climbing up the top of my favourite watch channels, keep up the good work!
All my kamadirskis cost me less then $30.00 new.good point on non winding on Seiko. Drives me crazy on my Seiko 5. My Seiko 5 has spent half its life at shop, being fixed. Had to get regulated & serviced. I usually get vostoks that are more plain dials. So some can be dressed with mesh. Once you scratch a hardlex, its there till you switch cyrstals.
I have a Komandurskie on a Hirsch strap. The perfect field watch for me. The acrylic crystal is easy to polish out. I bought mine from Moscowtimeseller. £30 including postage. I swim with mine. It has a screw down crown so why not. Hardlex on my Seiko got scratched in the first week.
I've seen some hirsch straps before, but never owned one. They seem nice. With the screw down crown, you would think it would have better water resistance. But I don't know why it's limited to 20m. I believe you've mentioned scratching the hardlex on your Seiko before. But I don't remember how? Was it walking too close to a fence, or something like that? Cheers!
@@RelativeTime I ordered a Komandirskie (l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmeranom.com%2Fen%2Fkomandirskie-classic%2F02%2Fvostok-watch-komandirskie-020711s.html%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2eI0CQD1lw1tr--fjLtPMTbhiDtdSiacPg4aE3xQpt5WruqE7cv3z4oB0&h=AT0UbbuTRN7BSE6qb1ArMij-RUUsjc4_1uWcdwbjkAqow2vmJ5N7pkQpBLM18I_q8bWzyR4wAJxLgKTnuFsraU4ERoP6m5CHh8drY-qJsJ1B0_zKoqraN-IlfJQzX8K08w) which is all stainless and has a 200 meter rating...can't wait, wait, I am still waiting haha. In the meantime, my Seiko 809 will keep me company. I just wish it had more lume. Maybe a few mods are in order.
You're really getting good at this. Thanks for posting. Your videos have always been pleasant to watch because they are so well shot and put together. But beyond that you are developing a style and delivery that is well polished without being pretentious or phony. This channel is going to be huge. When companies start sending you high(er) end watches on loan (and I guarantee they will) I look forward to your down to earth, analytical perspective on them. Just always remember that there are many, many reviewers out there doing the big dollar pieces. There are very few (i.e. none) doing the lower end/knock around models with the sophistication and production values you bring to the table. Great stuff and always pleasing to see you have a new submission in my alerts.
Thanks as always. I really appreciate the support, and encouragement. It would be nice if someone sent me something, but so far no offers. Although you always have to be careful with that, and make sure they know your doing a honest review first, and not just a commercial. Cheers!
I Think that the 20m of water resistance on the vostok are very conservative: the back case is made in the same way of the amphibia, and there is a screwdown crown. It would be interesting to check its water resistance snorkeling or swimming...due to its low price you can take the risk
Great video as always! I just recived a vostok komadirskie k35 about 2 months ago as a gift, and oh my god. It's just beautiful and looks brutal at the same time :P. My grandpa had a vostok...he wore it for 12years as a constuction worker. And it's not even failed after 12years long he unfortunately lost it.
O very nice. How is the lume on the k34? They look very nice. Defiently on my list to check out. I got one of the Scuba Amfibias last week. So far I love it. meranom.com/en/amfibia/scuba/vostok-watch-amphibia-scuba-2416-070799.html Thanks again! Cheers!
I believe your comparison review was fair and reasonable. (Yes, you hear a “However coma”, coming) As stated before, I own seven Vostoks (no Seikos) so I obviously, have made my choice. Yes, this may have meant going “oh look a 100% reliable, absolutely functionally integrated, Japanese product at a fair price and unquestioned quality” or “A burly Russian product, that may show some quirkiness, at less than two thirds the price (after a long wait).” Like I have said, I have made that choice. I just polished out the scratches in the crystal on one of my Vostoks with toothpaste. (it had been lost in sandy mud near my mail box for a few days, and run over multiple times). If large armaments on the dial are not your thing, take a look at the 211783. I have one. I like the 211 case/bezel as well as the 12/24 783 dial (no planes, missiles or submarines). For me it has some of that straight forward “field watch” look. (But, submarines are cool ).
There is always that however coming 😎. I think you summed up the decision fairly well. Another way I look at it, is like comparing a Honda Civic to a Jeep. The honda is going to be a good reliable car, although a little boring. While the Jeep is most likely gonna be a little quirky, and probably break down a few times. It will be much more fun to drive and own, but not necessarily the "smartest" choice. I like doing comparisons this way because I think it simulates a good decision making process. It sort of tells you what you "should" do, and why. But in the end, we don't always do what we "should" do. Because life isn't always about taking the safe, or reliable path all the time. That would just be boring. Cheers!
Oh, see you mentioned HMT's in another reply. I have purchased a few HMT's on eBay, mainly for the pretty colors, and to have something from India (to go with my currently laid up, Royal Enifield Bullet motorcycle , and my Atlas "Goldline Super" bicycle). Including the pink one for my wife, I have purchased eight of these. Two are supposedly new old stock. The rest were most likely resurrected franken watches. Two of the eight have already died (again?) , well, more like killed. One, I twisted the crown off, another I broke the stem off in the watch, so if you get one be very careful with the winding. I do not have delicate figures. The HMT's wear kind of small on my nearly 8 inch wrist, but they are also very light.
Yah, the frankenwatch thing worries me a bit. I "think", I've bought a frankenwatch from the Philippines for my wife. Small Seiko diver, looks great on the outside. But Accuracy was all over the place, crown came off the stem...etc. It was cheap, and I bought it for her to dive with. So if it dies, no big deal. But anything on ebay coming from India and the Philippines I'm a little suspicious.
I cannot argue with your logic but, having three Seiko watches and five Vostok in my collection, I would chose the Vostok anytime, they are fun! Something Seiko lacks.
The one thing for which i bought Vostok Amphibia and Komandirskei is the history. The fact that the movements are designed in 1967 (for Amphibia) and 1965 (for Komandirskei) for the russian military.
If I have to choose auto with no hand wind, or a hand wind watch. I choose hand wind. Grew up in 60’s most watches were hand wind. Doesn’t scare me to wind a watch.
Thanks! 100k would be very very nice, but Right now my goal is to hit 3k by the end of the year. If the growth rate continues I should be able to do it. If not it will be close. Cheers and thanks for the support!
Me encantan tus vídeos, son de gran calidad desde lo estético como así el contenido de tus reviews. Los vi a casi todos y soy un suscriptor más a tu canal junto con mi familia. Cordiales saludos y te seguiremos de ahora en más!!
Its channel is one of the best in comparison of watches, excellent sound and video quality, shows the details and makes the comparison of every detail in every watch, excellent and has helped many to choose each brand and specific models, especially the collectors.
A comparison like this is good but at the end of the day, people will also buy based on the history of the brand and the brand legacy, in which area, the Vostok is truly interesting. The brand has a great, intriguing story and history behind it and that is part of the statement. Its a brand which is exceptional in the sense that the simplicity, roughness and brutal design esthetic is in this case a positive, its part of the charm.
As always, I appreciate your fair & unbiased comparison between this two very different watches. That said, both can be used as a field watch, and qualify as entry level based on price. I also agree with your more subjective preference for the Vostok, and it's uniqueness. I own both of these watches, and the Vostok simply gets more wrist time. Thanks for a interesting comparison!
I'm glad you pointed out the fact you could buff the acrylic. I have my Casio Duro with some scratches in the mineral glass and I wish I could buff it out!
I liked my Seiko SNK until the little #5 emblem fell off the face and jammed the second hand. I am going to give Vostok a try. Thanks for the great videos.
I think you are spot on. I iove Восток as you can do unique things with them. I had date widows cut into Radio Operators dials at the 4/5 position, added a 12 hour bezel, and have a unique watch for HAM enthusiasts. The 12 hour bezel gives you a faux GMT with date and radio background quirky and unique features that I've outfitted many guys with. Add Восток exhibition or anti magnetic case back and I watch them fly off the shelf at the swap meets.
I actually own both of these watches. In the case of the Seiko, I have the exact same model, the green dialed SNK805. My Komandirskie is also green dialed, the paratrooper variant. U-87 hit the nail on the head. If you're a watch collector, these are two of the biggest bang for the buck timepieces out there. They're cheap enough to own and enjoy both.
Well the price difference is much more extreme now. The Snk809 costs around 150€ on amazon, and i got my Komandirskie for 30€... I still own and enjoy both, but currently the Komandirskie (for the price) seems to be the better option. My Komandirskie spends more time on my wrist because i paid around 110€ for the snk809, and it was the cheapest price i could find, and i had to have it in my collection nevertheless.
IMO when buying a watch it's what the buyer likes. You can use this video or others to get opinions, on certain brands/models etc. but its what the buyer can afford and feels comfortable with. What you said at the 16 minute mark is absolutly correct. This coming from a guy who owned Lada's and waiting for my 1st Vostok Scuba with a orange strap. great video BTW.
Thanks! Honestly that's pretty much how I feel, which may sound odd coming from someone with a review channel. When I watch other reviews I'm usually paying less attention to the reviewers opinion and more on the details. Which is why I try to focus more on getting those across and showing them in as much detail as I can. To me that's the most important thing I can do, I think people know what they like. They just need someone to show them if it's there.
I have both of these and I must say I consider the Komandirskie case to be superior because of the easy to use screw down crown. I have to use my teeth or another tool to pop the crown on the SNK805 which you should not have to do.
An outstanding comparison of two great watches, Kind Sir. I believe that if one was to put a plain bezel, (something that is rather simple to do), onto that Komanderskie, it would have a more civilized, and refined look. Additionally, one could conceivably change the watch face, and make it look more utilitarian. As you noted, Sir, the Seiko 5 is somewhat drab, but, some may like its subdued appearance.
Honestly it's hard to say as there are a lot of factors at play. Although I've heard people tell me they have 20+-year-old Seiko 5s running fine, and I've heard the same about vostok. So it's unlikely, but entirely possible.
Fully agree on your assessment of these two models. That is exactly why the snk was my choice due to it being my first mechanical. The amphibia is rapidly climbing to be my second... Well done!
Thanks again. If you ever need a cheap dive watch, hard to beat the Amphibia. But I think your buying things in the right order. Its easier to appreciate (or be annoyed) at Vostoks unique quirks. Once you have a good idea what a "normal" automatic is like. Cheers!
I have a SNK809. I think it's great, even though I by now have gotten like five Seikos which are totally different (field style, dress style, SKX proper diver's watch etc) but also have the same "Seiko shuffle" 7s26 movement. Considering I like to change watches, it's a lot of shaking lol. Nevertheless, I enjoy that "mini-flieger" every time use it. However, these Vostocks seems to be good competition for bang for the buck. I just can't decide between an Amfibia or a Komendirske.
What's happening?! I saw all these affordable SNK805 videos, but in 2021 Mach I see it for around 200$ on amazon (europe). Am I missing something? The Vostok however is like 24 bucks.
In that price range it should not be a problem to buy both of them, at least not for the real watch lover. I only have 4 watches. Still, each day choosing which one to wear is a challenge.
I dont know how the prices were 3 years ago, but today the seiko Costs minimum 130€ on Amazon, and 160 on eBay (new) and the vostok about 36€ with shipping. So today the vostok wins absolutly in price. But maybe back then it Was better
I own the black version of Seiko snk809 and i simply love it. Its complete value for money but its my everyday watch and doesn't really turn heads. I have ordered the black police variant of the vostok komandirskie with an orange strap and its going to cause accidents on the road with all that brightness and visibility 😆 waiting for it to arrive. I have not ordered the typical round dial though its slightly more vintage looking but less detail on the bezel
I don't have Seiko :( But I am using Vostok watches for swimming - Komandirskie Classic too. I know - 20meters WR, but I think it isn't like WR in ISO meaning. 20 meters for Komandirskie propably mean real depth I can reach with it - but it need a test to confirm this theory. Try it with Seiko with 30WR in ISO meaning? :D Suicide for a watch :D If You are still looking for a watches on Aliexpress - I sometimes wear my Spovan SPV706. 50WR (I swim with it with no problem), Digital movement, Baro/Alti/Thermometer, weather forecast, timer, stopwatch, alarm and fishing something (I don't know, how I can use it) or -> Something with compass like SKMEI 1427 (5Bar) or SKMEI 1358 (3Bar but with pedimeter/calories) Best wishes :) P.S. - > It is not an ad :)
I recently asked on the WUS forum about why it's only 20m water resistance. Supposedly the only real difference is a thicker crystal on the amphibia (3mm vs 2) and a metal rention ring to help hold it in place. Otherwise they are quite similar. So I think Vostok is under rating them a bit. I'll check out those watches, but not looking to buy to many more on Ali-X. I already have a small backlog of others I want to cover before buying more.. But I'll definitely look at the spovan, I'm curious what the fishing thingy does.
With simmilar waterproof system, Komandirskie classic is propably 100WR in ISO meaning - but someone must confirm this theory. On UA-cam, people dive with, boiling/freezing them and Komandirskies are still working LOL :D I think, Spovan and Skmei will be chinese alternative for Casio protrek/ G-shock with sensors for less $$ :)
I swam a lot with the old brass cased Komandisrkie without problems, but, in this department, not all the Komsndirskie had been created equal. The new steel cased K35 is 100m water resistant (it has an Amphibia 100 case, only brushed instead of polished, but the crystal without retention ring) and the K65 retains the 200m diving capability of the Amphibia (it has a brushed Amphibia 670 case, and the crystal with the retention ring).
Great video i have vostocks and seikos and for their versartility and usability they are both great. When it comes to choosing a watch to wear for the day it depends on my mood. As you have mentioned!. In choosing ,I more often go for the scuba dude or komanderski than my seiko watches. Just because they are cool looking. I have to point out that they are a great work watch for me because i have to load 2x24 000.00 ltr tanker road trains with controlled waste and time to the second when loading . So visability and accuracy is important. Seiko divers are great and i mod them up to suit, but my vostocks work equally stock standard brass and all. Cool factor to the vostock, legability to vostock in most cases
I collect both Seiko and Vostok (Rolex, TAG, Doxa and a few others). I use as a day to day watch one I put together from parts off Ebay. It was cheap to build keeps good time and I dont care if its lost or damaged. Of the watches I collect I find the history behind Vostok the most interesting and the choice of watches is incredible. I I had to make a choice between Seiko and Vostok to collect I would go with Seiko every time, but id struggle not having vostok's to use and enoy.
Hi I used a Miyota 8215 movement and a semi sort of Submariner case. Finding the bits on Ebay was very easy. It was in all honesty a fun project from looking for the parts to putting the watch together. Wek worth doing.
As a Citizen (lol😀) of a former comunist state, I can tell you that The Vostok is the AK 47 of buget Time pieces, they will go up in price so you should better collect them fast guys
Yes the hardlex cristal lenses are easy to scratch. but can be cleaned up with tooth brush & paste. But I have fitted a larger bezel from (one second closer) and protects the lens from major damage. My Seiko 7002 beaters I have fitted shrouds. and they look seriously like gshocks (heaven forbid) but look and perform better easier to see as a hard working time piece. I had a laugh today as all the newer truck drivers use their mobile phones to time loading of dangerous goods.. Nothing can beat a railroad desinged watch. will send pics of seiko mods and Bostock mods later. Thanks Mr Relative Time
I agree with you the Seiko wins but the Восток would have to be my choice the history and 100% in house made is a unique quality that tips the scale for me. I started my children with the Комадерске, then moved them to Амфибия. Now they're into the hobby all over the place, but the everyday go to watch is always a Восток. We're probably the only family outside of Russia that when we have a reunion not wearing a Восток is the odd watch. We just fell in love with them. You have 20 people in a room all wearing Восток watches and no 2 are alike.
I 100% agree. At the beginning of this one, I mentioned that it was a follow-up to another video. Which was exactly that. Yet I had a number of comments in that video saying it wasn't a fair comparison, that you can't compare a field watch to a diver. To me, Amphibia vs Snk made perfect sense. Especially for someone looking for their first mechanical watch. They wouldn't even have a dive watch or field watch preference. But I got enough comments in that video I made this one for those that disagreed. Here is Amphibia vs SNK video. ua-cam.com/video/ciP_zmTv5RU/v-deo.html
LOL... Yah. Everytime I show that strap, someone asks about it. So I just included it at the top to save time. I just happened to come across it when I was looking on Amazon. Cheers!
Both watch’s are so good and so much fun to own, both are a must have.....with these guys you really question the value of the sea masters and the like.
I picked up a gold bezel all gold except the red star field watch from Vostok (another) and it’s now on a fancy nato strap for tonic time. I tightened down the back cases after inspecting and lining the seal on all of my vostoks. I read part of the reason for shallow water failure was the lack of pressure and water seeping in. I don’t intentionally swim with watches on, and in the field I tend to wear my g shock, but I’m fairly confident they’re water tight enough for me to get out of the water.
I might of seen that one on one of you videos. I don't remember. Was out of town for the last 2 weeks with family. I might have to look into why there so low. I'm kind of curious now. I can see some differences between a komandirskie and an amphibia. But 20m seems really low, especially with a screw down crown. There is a russian watch sub-fourm on watchuseek, with some very knowledgeable people. I might have to ask over there if anyone knows. Cheers!
As I said, its a follow up video. When the popular SNK prices shot up, they were around the same price as a Vostok Amphibia. So I thought it would be an interesting comparison between the two, for what would be a better first time automatic watch. I received a lot of comments saying they would of rather had a field vs field watch comparison, instead of a field vs dive. Thus this video was born in response.
I just discovered your channel today, and I really appreciate your content. Your first comparison video actually persuaded me away from the SNK805 by showing me a roughly similarly priced - and much more unique - watch I could swim laps with. You've inspired me to get my own Vostok. I'm waffling between the same model Amphibia you have and an automatic, 200m WR Komandirskie (meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/vostok-watch-komandirskie-020706.html). Thanks for making great videos!
Thanks, its good always good to hear when I've made a difference. 😀 From what I understand, the komandirskies that have 200m wr are basically built the same as the Amphibias. I think they just have more of a field watch dial. So go for whatever dial / case combo you like the best. Which the newer ones, like you linked, do have the nicer newer bezels. Haven't seen one in person, but I really like the look. For some reason this one appeals to me too. meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/vostok-watch-komandirskie-020715.html But I'm not sure how the dial will look in person in the light. But I like the contrast of it and the dark bezel. Cheers!
Seiko all the way . It seemed to be a no brainier. Love the way you use the background to bring out the watch. You make videos on good quality watches at a cheap price. .....you should check out Titan watches from India. They are cheap last very long and batteries are easily replaced. I still have a few from my childhood and although the batteries were not changed and ended up leaking just a bit of cleanup and battery change .....voila a quartz watch that lay dead for a decade springs to life. Anyways I love your videos and presentation. Thanks. Wish you well.
Thanks, I appreciate it. I've seen some Titan's on ebay, and thought about it. As well as some HMT, although I think they HMT died a few years ago. So they are on my list to check out... which seems to keep getting longer. 😎 Thanks again! Cheers!
Lovely comparison video, bud. Very, very nicely done. Hope you do more like this. I'm not sure I'd choose either, as I'm too lazy to do anything that would justify using a tool watch of any kind. So I'll throw this name in the ring in the Dress category: Orient. Proven reliability and quality control thanks to part-Seiko ownership, cache of in-house movement, obscure name in non-watch circles (here in the US, anyway), and excellent level of finish and detail for the money. I've really grown to appreciate my little $70 3-Star more and more the longer I own it. If it weren't for the STUPID WINDING IS NOT AN OPTION movement (which is STUPID) I'd choose this watch over any number of other, more costly and better known, watches any day. (ps. STUPID.)
Love Orient, but never looked at the 3 stars. Some point I should. I was looking at a JDM Orient Chrono on ebay the other day. Saw another video on it, and read some stuff about them online. Suposedly its sort of a hidden gem, I think its called the neo 70's.Was surprised to find out that it was solar, but I guess they make a whole lot more then what gets imported here. Thanks again!
I liked the comparison, but I think you chose the wrong Komandirskie. Or better, you chose the old model. A steel cased Komandirskie K35, for example a 350751 ( meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/35/vostok-watch-komandirskie-350751.html ) would have been a better comparison with the Seiko.
I'll have to check the regular k35s out sometime. It seems like most people just look at the regular komandirske and amphbia, and never look at the other newer offerings. I'm currently wearing one of the amfibias (with an f) scuba I just got. Probably do the review next month. Although if I do another Vostok vs Seiko video, I should probably compare the amphbia to a seiko diver. Just not sure which one. Could always do an SKX, but not sure if its fair to put it against a watch that's 3x as much. Thanks for the suggestion. Cheers!
You are welcome. Thanks for the reply! To me the new, steel cased, Komandirskie lines (K35, K65 and K02) are actually the best for the buck. They have modern and interesting dials, new features (24h dials, 12h/24h complications, GMT, small second dial at 10...), improved water resistance (100m for the K35, 200m for the K65 and K02), steel bezels, and the bushed cases seem more modern than the polished ones of the Amphibia line. For their price they are majestic watches.
You may be right. I did a review a month or so ago on a k65. Not sure if you've run across it. With 200m wr I thought it was built more like an amphibia then the mechanical komandirskie. I wonder what's different between it and the 100m k35s? But your right, I think its a great bang for your buck. Especially that one, 650539 with the 24/gmt hand. Great price for an auto with that kind of movement. Eventually I'd like to show case a lot more vostoks. Specifically ones that don't get much attention from other UA-camrs. I don't know if you ever go to watchuseek.com . But in the Russian sub-forum they are doing a project watch based off a k34 with the internal compass bezel. Sort of a vostok alpinist. So far the idea is interesting. forums.watchuseek.com/f911/
The new Komandirskie lines use the same cases of the Amphibia (case 100 for the K35, case 670 for the K65, only brushed instead of polished). The K35 doesn't have the metal retaining ring for the crystal, than instead the K65 and K02 mantain from the Amphibia line, so limiting the diving capabilities (however, i swam a lot with the old brass cased K92, so, for normal activities besides scuba diving, i'm pretty sure the K35 is fine). Yeah, that 650539 is pretty impressive. The only thing that annoys me a little is the lack of the day display that instead the slightly more pricey Amphibia Neptune 960762 has (but i like less the dial of the watch meranom.com/en/amphibian-classic/960/vostok-watch-amphibian-classic-960762.html ) with the day at 4:30 it would be almost perfect to me. I'll chek the discussion on watchhuseek (know the forum, but don't check it often), thanks! (unfortunately I have rather small wrists, 40mm, like the new Komandirskie cases, or the Seiko Panda, are perfect to me. 42mm starts to be pretty challenging).
Have you had any occurence of galvanic corrosion on your amphibia as experienced by your fellow watch vlogger named watch geek. He said it was probably caused by his sweat and the reaction between the 2 different metals used by vostok on the device.
Sorry for the late reply. I've seen that video as well. I haven't seen that on mine. At least I don't think so. The only odd thing I've found on my amphibia was after I took it diving. I replaced the stock crown with a stainless one. After getting out of the ocean, I noticed a red-brown substance in the grooves of the crown. Right where the logo is. Wiped it off, and never saw it again. I had already taken it in a pool, and didn't notice anything. So this was after 1 hour in salt water. I'm not sure if it was rust, or perhaps just some residue from the manufacturing process crashing out at depth. No idea. I took it on a second dive afterward, and never saw it again.
One of these days I'd love to get a komandirkse pressure tested. I think they limit it that low so they don't have to test them, even though they are more capable.
@@RelativeTime 3 weeks ago I went to a watchmaker with my father's watch ,an Orient, for servicing. And there I saw a Vostok komandirskie and I asked the watchmaker if I can take a closer look at it ,and he said sure ,and handed me the watch ,saying ,it is a good swimming watch. The watchmaker is around 60 years old and worked with a lot of watches, so I trust in his words. P.S. sorry if my english is not so good.
Well, if you want something thinner, but you have to hand wind go komanderskie. Otherwise the Amphibia is a great watch, that you won't need to worry about. Only downside is that it's a little tall.
The stock strap on the Komandirskie is a god awful crime against humanity. It’s UGLY. But it is extremely durable. Know a guy whose lasted him over a decade. It’s very tough leather and takes a month to break in (I know from experience) but once it’s broken in, it feels like it is a hard shell fitted perfectly to your wrist. No strap has ever felt so bespoke to me
Things have changed a little bit since making this. If you look on Meranom you will see two different sections of komandirskie. You will see Komandirskie Automatics, and Komandirskie classics. The Automatics like the k34s are an entirely different breed. They use the same movements, but the cases are more conventional and modern. If you look under the komandirskie classics most of those will be 20m. Yet you will find some that are 100 and maybe a few 200m. The ones that are about $40-$50 are the classically designed komandirskes that stay more true to the way they used to be. While the more expensive ones (with increased WR) are some newer designs, some of which seem to use more Amphibia parts. At least that's what I've seen. Such as this GMT Komandirske I reviewed. ua-cam.com/video/_kS4rf4s2JA/v-deo.html That thing is pretty much built like an amphibia. Here is an example of one of the classic komandirskies. meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/92/vostok-watch-komandirskie-921261.html
Well that was the first video. Amphibia vs SNK. ua-cam.com/video/ciP_zmTv5RU/v-deo.html Yet I got a lot of comments saying it wasn't fair to have a dive watch vs a field. So I should of used a komandirskie. Hence I followed it up with this one.
You can't please everyone! I think Amphibia was a better comparison but there were complaints...so you compared Komandirskie and now the critics say it's the wrong one! The "newer" Komandirskie is, in fact, Amphibia renamed. SMH Older Komandirskies were rated at 100m. The crown, back, and crystal are all sealed using the same unique methods as Amphibia. Only the crystal thickness is different....I don't see how that alone could degrade it from 200m down to 30 m. Other than the crappy leather band, swimming is well within it's capabilities.
Thats one thing you learn real quick with a UA-cam Channel. On an early video I asked the viewers what they wanted on a futre video. Someone with their own channel advised me never to do that again... they really don't know what they want. :)
I think this is the cheaper komandirskies, there are other versions that cost more o less the same of that seiko. I think is not jair to comparade these two watches, seach for komandirskie with automatic movement.
Well, this is the classic komandirskie, which I believe is the first watch Vostok every put out. When most people think of Vostok they think either think of this or the Amphibia. In my opinion, the newer Komandirskies (at least mechanically) have more in common with the amphibians than the classic Komandirskies. I think those are closer to some of the other more expensive Seiko 5 then this snk. So this is a comparison between both Seiko and Vostoks entry level field watches. ...Yet I think your right. This is not a fair comparison. As your talking a $20-30 mechanical vs a $60-$80 automatic. To me, a more fair comparison would be comparing the Amphibia to this snk. As they are about the same price. Which is what I did previously. ua-cam.com/video/ciP_zmTv5RU/v-deo.html Yet I received a number of comments saying that wasn't fair comparison either as it was a field watch vs. a Dive watch. That I should have compared the SNK to a komandirskie. Which is what I did here as a followup for those that wanted to see it.
@@RelativeTime The size doesn't make it a field watch either, and what else should the "everything else" be? The fact that the case is circular? That it has a strap? Field watch style always has hours only - either only 1-12 or 1-12 and 13-24. Field watches come in various sizes too.
@@furzkram With regards to size I was thinking the other direction. As in typically, and traditionally fliegers are much much larger. For me, this seems more like a field watch. Small, thin, easily legible, bead blasted finish, decent lume. Either way I think we can both agree that it's a military style watch, and as far as for my opinion it's a field watch with a Flieger style dial. In fact, I have said so in some video. I don't remember if it's this one or another. As far as I know, there is no hard definition of what truly makes a field watch. In fact, I've seen some threads on watchuseek debating it. But if you don't agree, and want to call it a Flieger, I have no problem with that either. Although I should point out I'm not alone in that assumption. Seen plenty of other people refer to the SNK as field watches. Doesn't mean that I'm "right and your wrong" . Just that it's an opinion I share with many others. ua-cam.com/video/t221kyN79qI/v-deo.html
@@RelativeTime when watches were turned from pocket to wristwatches during the war times, the are actually a military invention so to speak. And they were a lot smaller than today's 40-45 millimeters. Even pilots watches weren't as big as today. You still find a lot of pilots watches of smaller sizes. Check out Fortis for example.
@@furzkram True. Although I think, "think" the key word, fleigers were much larger. Designed to be easily readable while piloting, and designed to be fit over a leather jacket. Otherwise, I believe you are correct. Fashion, or maybe it's just a trend has made much larger. Sometimes too large to be practical.
I'm sorry but it is kinda a curse for any items to be tagged "Made in Russia". From the other hand "Made or invented in Japan" is kinda a blessing) So, Seiko SNK is the watch to go!
I'm not sure I would call it a curse, but it definitely has a different meaning then Made in Japan. For a lot of us who grew up during the cold war, there is a novelty for owning a Russian watch. Similar to why a lot of gun collectors like AKs, even though they are fairly cheap.
I was born in USSR, i know it well from a "dark side". Soviet Union was quite lucky to get a lot of invention patents when Germany's companies were stripped off right after WWII. Rumours has it even AK you've mentioned was invented in Germany during WWII. Not too many iconic things were invented from the scratch in USSR. They weren't even good in creating replicas either. Things like Leica cameras.
I think I remember hearing that rumor about the AK, but I don't remember the details. I think it was because Kalashnikov had never invented anything before. Not to mention the huge amount of propaganda that surrounded the origins afterwards. My father was an electrical engineer, and worked for the US Navy during the 80s. His expertise was on Radar and Sonar systems. So he was always fascinated with Soviet technology, or what was being developed. Just a very different philosophy from a design perspective then what he was doing.
@@RelativeTime YT commenters often spread fakes regarding Kalashnikov etc. What did Sudaev invented before his PPS? Or Shpagin before his famous PPSh? Nothing special, indeed. Same we can say about Kalashnikov - however he did developed a tank engine hours counter, which was quite similar to a clock, btw. So there's no any curse or whatever, that's all just BS and bias. Manufacturing sometimes was really low-tech, but the engineering was often innovative in many aspects.
It is difficult to determine which watch is actually better. The brass case is definitely inferior than the steel one on the Seiko, yet if you are into modding, it is quite appealing to go for the Vostok and remove all the chrome plating. Looks awesome. I have had so many QC issues on my Seikos (basically all 3 of them have had issues I fixed myself) in the past, that I would give both companies 0 or 1 point. The Vostok should run like forever, those watches were designed to be worn by soldiers in the Soviet Union. The spare parts for Vostok are cheap AF and learning to repair them if something should break is part of the experience of buying socialist "technology".
I think your voice has a lot to do with people s opinion of Vostok watches...with your persuasive voice you should steer people towards the Vostok...You never mention the 10 year service life...or the fact that in many cases the Vostok would go over 200m ...you are an obvious Seiko fan...The Vostok is made better....in-house movement...who cares about changing the date...that's just sheer laziness...
Well in my defense, I don't consider the date too big an issue. At least not when the watch is a few days behind. It's more when the watch is set for the 8th, and the date is the 5th. That's when it gets a bit annoying. I've had a few people tell me they just ignore the date on theirs. Which is always an option. Now your point about 200m of water resistance would be valid on my other Seiko Vs Vostok video, but I don't think it applies to the komandirskie. I know some people think the komandirskie has just as good water resistance as an amphibia, even though they rate it at 30. But I can't really judge it on what people think. I have to go with what it's actually rated for. At least until I see someone actually test it to that pressure. I actually don't consider myself a Seiko fan. Heck, I've long since sold that seiko, but kept my amphibia. I'd have to go count, but I think I've reviewed as many vostoks as Seiko. Or at least it's close. I'm one of the few channels that's looked beyond the regular komandirskies and amphibias. It's just that I think Seiko is a better option for someone new to watches. Once you know what's "normal" then I think you can appreciate the fun oddities that come with owning a vostok. Out of curiosity, what do you think about this Ampfibia review? ua-cam.com/video/4wd-vnFs0NQ/v-deo.html
I like to think of these two watches as people at a party: The Seiko is the average joe everyone likes but has neither special talents or flaws and is kinda forgettable while the Vostok is the awkward dude with his personal set of quirks that make him intriguing but not everyone's cup of tea.
Great comparison as always! You're slowly climbing up the top of my favourite watch channels, keep up the good work!
I think you just described me and my channel... 😋
Your mind went with Seiko- your heart went with Vostok!
Love your spot on reviews!!
That pretty much sums it up. Vostoks are fun, and different. But I don't think they are the best choice for everyone.
All my kamadirskis cost me less then $30.00 new.good point on non winding on Seiko. Drives me crazy on my Seiko 5. My Seiko 5 has spent half its life at shop, being fixed. Had to get regulated & serviced. I usually get vostoks that are more plain dials. So some can be dressed with mesh. Once you scratch a hardlex, its there till you switch cyrstals.
I have a Komandurskie on a Hirsch strap. The perfect field watch for me. The acrylic crystal is easy to polish out. I bought mine from Moscowtimeseller. £30 including postage. I swim with mine. It has a screw down crown so why not.
Hardlex on my Seiko got scratched in the first week.
I've seen some hirsch straps before, but never owned one. They seem nice. With the screw down crown, you would think it would have better water resistance. But I don't know why it's limited to 20m.
I believe you've mentioned scratching the hardlex on your Seiko before. But I don't remember how? Was it walking too close to a fence, or something like that? Cheers!
@@RelativeTime I ordered a Komandirskie (l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmeranom.com%2Fen%2Fkomandirskie-classic%2F02%2Fvostok-watch-komandirskie-020711s.html%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2eI0CQD1lw1tr--fjLtPMTbhiDtdSiacPg4aE3xQpt5WruqE7cv3z4oB0&h=AT0UbbuTRN7BSE6qb1ArMij-RUUsjc4_1uWcdwbjkAqow2vmJ5N7pkQpBLM18I_q8bWzyR4wAJxLgKTnuFsraU4ERoP6m5CHh8drY-qJsJ1B0_zKoqraN-IlfJQzX8K08w) which is all stainless and has a 200 meter rating...can't wait, wait, I am still waiting haha. In the meantime, my Seiko 809 will keep me company. I just wish it had more lume. Maybe a few mods are in order.
You're really getting good at this. Thanks for posting. Your videos have always been pleasant to watch because they are so well shot and put together. But beyond that you are developing a style and delivery that is well polished without being pretentious or phony.
This channel is going to be huge. When companies start sending you high(er) end watches on loan (and I guarantee they will) I look forward to your down to earth, analytical perspective on them. Just always remember that there are many, many reviewers out there doing the big dollar pieces. There are very few (i.e. none) doing the lower end/knock around models with the sophistication and production values you bring to the table. Great stuff and always pleasing to see you have a new submission in my alerts.
Thanks as always. I really appreciate the support, and encouragement. It would be nice if someone sent me something, but so far no offers. Although you always have to be careful with that, and make sure they know your doing a honest review first, and not just a commercial. Cheers!
I Think that the 20m of water resistance on the vostok are very conservative: the back case is made in the same way of the amphibia, and there is a screwdown crown. It would be interesting to check its water resistance snorkeling or swimming...due to its low price you can take the risk
Great video as always!
I just recived a vostok komadirskie k35 about 2 months ago as a gift, and oh my god. It's just beautiful and looks brutal at the same time :P. My grandpa had a vostok...he wore it for 12years as a constuction worker. And it's not even failed after 12years long he unfortunately lost it.
O very nice. How is the lume on the k34? They look very nice. Defiently on my list to check out. I got one of the Scuba Amfibias last week. So far I love it.
meranom.com/en/amfibia/scuba/vostok-watch-amphibia-scuba-2416-070799.html
Thanks again! Cheers!
I believe your comparison review was fair and reasonable. (Yes, you hear a “However coma”, coming)
As stated before, I own seven Vostoks (no Seikos) so I obviously, have made my choice. Yes, this may have meant going “oh look a 100% reliable, absolutely functionally integrated, Japanese product at a fair price and unquestioned quality” or “A burly Russian product, that may show some quirkiness, at less than two thirds the price (after a long wait).” Like I have said, I have made that choice. I just polished out the scratches in the crystal on one of my Vostoks with toothpaste. (it had been lost in sandy mud near my mail box for a few days, and run over multiple times).
If large armaments on the dial are not your thing, take a look at the 211783. I have one. I like the 211 case/bezel as well as the 12/24 783 dial (no planes, missiles or submarines). For me it has some of that straight forward “field watch” look. (But, submarines are cool ).
There is always that however coming 😎.
I think you summed up the decision fairly well. Another way I look at it, is like comparing a Honda Civic to a Jeep. The honda is going to be a good reliable car, although a little boring. While the Jeep is most likely gonna be a little quirky, and probably break down a few times. It will be much more fun to drive and own, but not necessarily the "smartest" choice.
I like doing comparisons this way because I think it simulates a good decision making process. It sort of tells you what you "should" do, and why. But in the end, we don't always do what we "should" do. Because life isn't always about taking the safe, or reliable path all the time. That would just be boring.
Cheers!
Very well summed up.
Na Zdorovie!
Oh, see you mentioned HMT's in another reply. I have purchased a few HMT's on eBay, mainly for the pretty colors, and to have something from India (to go with my currently laid up, Royal Enifield Bullet motorcycle , and my Atlas "Goldline Super" bicycle).
Including the pink one for my wife, I have purchased eight of these. Two are supposedly new old stock. The rest were most likely resurrected franken watches. Two of the eight have already died (again?) , well, more like killed. One, I twisted the crown off, another I broke the stem off in the watch, so if you get one be very careful with the winding. I do not have delicate figures. The HMT's wear kind of small on my nearly 8 inch wrist, but they are also very light.
Yah, the frankenwatch thing worries me a bit. I "think", I've bought a frankenwatch from the Philippines for my wife. Small Seiko diver, looks great on the outside. But Accuracy was all over the place, crown came off the stem...etc. It was cheap, and I bought it for her to dive with. So if it dies, no big deal. But anything on ebay coming from India and the Philippines I'm a little suspicious.
I cannot argue with your logic but, having three Seiko watches and five Vostok in my collection, I would chose the Vostok anytime, they are fun! Something Seiko lacks.
The one thing for which i bought Vostok Amphibia and Komandirskei is the history. The fact that the movements are designed in 1967 (for Amphibia) and 1965 (for Komandirskei) for the russian military.
If I have to choose auto with no hand wind, or a hand wind watch. I choose hand wind. Grew up in 60’s most watches were hand wind. Doesn’t scare me to wind a watch.
Only 1500 Subs but High Quality Videos. We should let this channel grow and look what happens at 100.000 Subs!
Thanks! 100k would be very very nice, but Right now my goal is to hit 3k by the end of the year. If the growth rate continues I should be able to do it. If not it will be close. Cheers and thanks for the support!
Me encantan tus vídeos, son de gran calidad desde lo estético como así el contenido de tus reviews. Los vi a casi todos y soy un suscriptor más a tu canal junto con mi familia. Cordiales saludos y te seguiremos de ahora en más!!
Mi español no es muy bueno, así que he usado Google Translate. Pero quería agradecerle su comentario y buenos deseos.
Its channel is one of the best in comparison of watches, excellent sound and video quality, shows the details and makes the comparison of every detail in every watch, excellent and has helped many to choose each brand and specific models, especially the collectors.
Might want an update again. I just got a Komandirskie for $27.50 delivered. The Seiko is now $75, almost triple.
Prices fluctuate so much on them. Sometimes I got to an Amazon price tracker just to see.
camelcamelcamel.com/product/B006CHML4I?context=search
A comparison like this is good but at the end of the day, people will also buy based on the history of the brand and the brand legacy, in which area, the Vostok is truly interesting. The brand has a great, intriguing story and history behind it and that is part of the statement. Its a brand which is exceptional in the sense that the simplicity, roughness and brutal design esthetic is in this case a positive, its part of the charm.
As always, I appreciate your fair & unbiased comparison between this two very different watches. That said, both can be used as a field watch, and qualify as entry level based on price. I also agree with your more subjective preference for the Vostok, and it's uniqueness. I own both of these watches, and the Vostok simply gets more wrist time. Thanks for a interesting comparison!
My guess is more fair comparison Seiko with Komandirskie К series - 34, 35, 39!
I'm glad you pointed out the fact you could buff the acrylic. I have my Casio Duro with some scratches in the mineral glass and I wish I could buff it out!
I liked my Seiko SNK until the little #5 emblem fell off the face and jammed the second hand. I am going to give Vostok a try. Thanks for the great videos.
How old was it before the emblem fell off? Thanks for watching.
Fantastic job on your comparison video, very clear and concise with good editing. Iv’e decided to try a Vostok.
Thank you. I'll glanced at your channel, I'll check it out more later. I was just talking to someone about Uluru
I think you are spot on. I iove Восток as you can do unique things with them. I had date widows cut into Radio Operators dials at the 4/5 position, added a 12 hour bezel, and have a unique watch for HAM enthusiasts. The 12 hour bezel gives you a faux GMT with date and radio background quirky and unique features that I've outfitted many guys with. Add Восток exhibition or anti magnetic case back and I watch them fly off the shelf at the swap meets.
Great video!
I actually own both of these watches. In the case of the Seiko, I have the exact same model, the green dialed SNK805. My Komandirskie is also green dialed, the paratrooper variant. U-87 hit the nail on the head. If you're a watch collector, these are two of the biggest bang for the buck timepieces out there. They're cheap enough to own and enjoy both.
Although one big problem is that vostoks are addicting. Many people find it hard to stop at just one.😋
Well the price difference is much more extreme now. The Snk809 costs around 150€ on amazon, and i got my Komandirskie for 30€...
I still own and enjoy both, but currently the Komandirskie (for the price) seems to be the better option.
My Komandirskie spends more time on my wrist because i paid around 110€ for the snk809, and it was the cheapest price i could find, and i had to have it in my collection nevertheless.
Excellent professional review, great job. Thank you
IMO when buying a watch it's what the buyer likes. You can use this video or others to get opinions, on certain brands/models etc. but its what the buyer can afford and feels comfortable with. What you said at the 16 minute mark is absolutly correct. This coming from a guy who owned Lada's and waiting for my 1st Vostok Scuba with a orange strap. great video BTW.
Thanks! Honestly that's pretty much how I feel, which may sound odd coming from someone with a review channel. When I watch other reviews I'm usually paying less attention to the reviewers opinion and more on the details. Which is why I try to focus more on getting those across and showing them in as much detail as I can.
To me that's the most important thing I can do, I think people know what they like. They just need someone to show them if it's there.
My first automatic was the SNK803.
I have both of these and I must say I consider the Komandirskie case to be superior because of the easy to use screw down crown. I have to use my teeth or another tool to pop the crown on the SNK805 which you should not have to do.
An outstanding comparison of two great watches, Kind Sir. I believe that if one was to put a plain bezel, (something that is rather simple to do), onto that Komanderskie, it would have a more civilized, and refined look. Additionally, one could conceivably change the watch face, and make it look more utilitarian. As you noted, Sir, the Seiko 5 is somewhat drab, but, some may like its subdued appearance.
Good job. Nice analysis and video..
I do find the durability win on the Seiko to be questionable...Will it still be running in 30 years without service?
Honestly it's hard to say as there are a lot of factors at play. Although I've heard people tell me they have 20+-year-old Seiko 5s running fine, and I've heard the same about vostok. So it's unlikely, but entirely possible.
Fully agree on your assessment of these two models. That is exactly why the snk was my choice due to it being my first mechanical. The amphibia is rapidly climbing to be my second... Well done!
Thanks again. If you ever need a cheap dive watch, hard to beat the Amphibia. But I think your buying things in the right order. Its easier to appreciate (or be annoyed) at Vostoks unique quirks. Once you have a good idea what a "normal" automatic is like. Cheers!
I have a SNK809. I think it's great, even though I by now have gotten like five Seikos which are totally different (field style, dress style, SKX proper diver's watch etc) but also have the same "Seiko shuffle" 7s26 movement. Considering I like to change watches, it's a lot of shaking lol.
Nevertheless, I enjoy that "mini-flieger" every time use it. However, these Vostocks seems to be good competition for bang for the buck. I just can't decide between an Amfibia or a Komendirske.
What's happening?! I saw all these affordable SNK805 videos, but in 2021 Mach I see it for around 200$ on amazon (europe). Am I missing something? The Vostok however is like 24 bucks.
The commander's model in the review costs $ 19.78. In Russia, for $ 40, commander's suits in a steel case are sold. This Seiko model is about $100.
Prices have fluctuated a bit since I made this. Especially on that Seiko. You used to be able to get them for $60 all day on eBay.
Not anymore
@@RelativeTime The video was shot a long time ago. I didn't pay attention. I like your channel. Thanks for the reply.
Both watches are very nice. Just depends on what you are looking for.
In that price range it should not be a problem to buy both of them, at least not for the real watch lover. I only have 4 watches. Still, each day choosing which one to wear is a challenge.
I dont know how the prices were 3 years ago, but today the seiko Costs minimum 130€ on Amazon, and 160 on eBay (new) and the vostok about 36€ with shipping. So today the vostok wins absolutly in price. But maybe back then it Was better
Yah, the prices of the Seiko SNKS have gone crazy over the last few years.. I don't think they are worth it at all for that price.
He used this video as an excuse in order to but another Vostok!!!
do you need an excuse?
Well done and Beautiful Photography.
I own the black version of Seiko snk809 and i simply love it. Its complete value for money but its my everyday watch and doesn't really turn heads. I have ordered the black police variant of the vostok komandirskie with an orange strap and its going to cause accidents on the road with all that brightness and visibility 😆 waiting for it to arrive. I have not ordered the typical round dial though its slightly more vintage looking but less detail on the bezel
Cool. Hope you will like it Vostoks can be a lot of fun.
@@RelativeTime totally agreed. Specially the variety of graphics on the komandirskie collection is amazing
I don't have Seiko :(
But I am using Vostok watches for swimming - Komandirskie Classic too. I know - 20meters WR, but I think it isn't like WR in ISO meaning. 20 meters for Komandirskie propably mean real depth I can reach with it - but it need a test to confirm this theory.
Try it with Seiko with 30WR in ISO meaning? :D Suicide for a watch :D
If You are still looking for a watches on Aliexpress - I sometimes wear my Spovan SPV706. 50WR (I swim with it with no problem), Digital movement, Baro/Alti/Thermometer, weather forecast, timer, stopwatch, alarm and fishing something (I don't know, how I can use it)
or -> Something with compass like SKMEI 1427 (5Bar) or SKMEI 1358 (3Bar but with pedimeter/calories)
Best wishes :)
P.S. - > It is not an ad :)
I recently asked on the WUS forum about why it's only 20m water resistance. Supposedly the only real difference is a thicker crystal on the amphibia (3mm vs 2) and a metal rention ring to help hold it in place. Otherwise they are quite similar. So I think Vostok is under rating them a bit.
I'll check out those watches, but not looking to buy to many more on Ali-X. I already have a small backlog of others I want to cover before buying more.. But I'll definitely look at the spovan, I'm curious what the fishing thingy does.
With simmilar waterproof system, Komandirskie classic is propably 100WR in ISO meaning - but someone must confirm this theory.
On UA-cam, people dive with, boiling/freezing them and Komandirskies are still working LOL :D
I think, Spovan and Skmei will be chinese alternative for Casio protrek/ G-shock with sensors for less $$ :)
I swam a lot with the old brass cased Komandisrkie without problems, but, in this department, not all the Komsndirskie had been created equal. The new steel cased K35 is 100m water resistant (it has an Amphibia 100 case, only brushed instead of polished, but the crystal without retention ring) and the K65 retains the 200m diving capability of the Amphibia (it has a brushed Amphibia 670 case, and the crystal with the retention ring).
Great video i have vostocks and seikos and for their versartility and usability they are both great. When it comes to choosing a watch to wear for the day it depends on my mood. As you have mentioned!. In choosing ,I more often go for the scuba dude or komanderski than my seiko watches. Just because they are cool looking. I have to point out that they are a great work watch for me because i have to load 2x24 000.00 ltr tanker road trains with controlled waste and time to the second when loading . So visability and accuracy is important. Seiko divers are great and i mod them up to suit, but my vostocks work equally stock standard brass and all. Cool factor to the vostock, legability to vostock in most cases
Thanks!👍 And very cool to know they work well for you. How well does the Vostok's crystal stand up to your work?
Fair will be to compare Seiko to Vostok Amphibia all stainless steel case.
That was the first video. Part I
I followed that one up with this as lots said it needed to be a field watch vs a fieldwtch.
I collect both Seiko and Vostok (Rolex, TAG, Doxa and a few others). I use as a day to day watch one I put together from parts off Ebay. It was cheap to build keeps good time and I dont care if its lost or damaged.
Of the watches I collect I find the history behind Vostok the most interesting and the choice of watches is incredible.
I I had to make a choice between Seiko and Vostok to collect I would go with Seiko every time, but id struggle not having vostok's to use and enoy.
Nicely said. I've thought about building my own as well off parts from ebay. What kind of movement did you use?
Hi I used a Miyota 8215 movement and a semi sort of Submariner case. Finding the bits on Ebay was very easy.
It was in all honesty a fun project from looking for the parts to putting the watch together.
Wek worth doing.
As a Citizen (lol😀) of a former comunist state, I can tell you that The Vostok is the AK 47 of buget Time pieces, they will go up in price so you should better collect them fast guys
That's the best way to describe. Just like an AK, it may not be pretty but it's cheap and will get the job done.
Yes the hardlex cristal lenses are easy to scratch. but can be cleaned up with tooth brush & paste. But I have fitted a larger bezel from (one second closer) and protects the lens from major damage. My Seiko 7002 beaters I have fitted shrouds. and they look seriously like gshocks (heaven forbid) but look and perform better easier to see as a hard working time piece. I had a laugh today as all the newer truck drivers use their mobile phones to time loading of dangerous goods.. Nothing can beat a railroad desinged watch.
will send pics of seiko mods and Bostock mods later. Thanks Mr Relative Time
I'd love to see a pic. I'm curious to see what a gshock looking seiko looks like. 😀👍
I agree with you the Seiko wins but the Восток would have to be my choice the history and 100% in house made is a unique quality that tips the scale for me. I started my children with the Комадерске, then moved them to Амфибия. Now they're into the hobby all over the place, but the everyday go to watch is always a Восток. We're probably the only family outside of Russia that when we have a reunion not wearing a Восток is the odd watch. We just fell in love with them. You have 20 people in a room all wearing Восток watches and no 2 are alike.
What band is that on Vostok?
Wouldn't an Amphibia have been a better comparison to the SNK805? Closer price point, stainless steel case, automatic movement...
I 100% agree. At the beginning of this one, I mentioned that it was a follow-up to another video. Which was exactly that. Yet I had a number of comments in that video saying it wasn't a fair comparison, that you can't compare a field watch to a diver.
To me, Amphibia vs Snk made perfect sense. Especially for someone looking for their first mechanical watch. They wouldn't even have a dive watch or field watch preference. But I got enough comments in that video I made this one for those that disagreed.
Here is Amphibia vs SNK video.
ua-cam.com/video/ciP_zmTv5RU/v-deo.html
Another thoughtful, well executed video, Sir - thumbs up. Where did you get that part leather, part nylon strap? ...Oh, nevermind I just saw the link.
LOL... Yah. Everytime I show that strap, someone asks about it. So I just included it at the top to save time. I just happened to come across it when I was looking on Amazon. Cheers!
Both watch’s are so good and so much fun to own, both are a must have.....with these guys you really question the value of the sea masters and the like.
They have everything you need and nothing you don't.
The best part is both are so cheap, you just buy both (plus an Amphibia for the same reason).
I picked up a gold bezel all gold except the red star field watch from Vostok (another) and it’s now on a fancy nato strap for tonic time.
I tightened down the back cases after inspecting and lining the seal on all of my vostoks. I read part of the reason for shallow water failure was the lack of pressure and water seeping in.
I don’t intentionally swim with watches on, and in the field I tend to wear my g shock, but I’m fairly confident they’re water tight enough for me to get out of the water.
I might of seen that one on one of you videos. I don't remember. Was out of town for the last 2 weeks with family.
I might have to look into why there so low. I'm kind of curious now. I can see some differences between a komandirskie and an amphibia. But 20m seems really low, especially with a screw down crown. There is a russian watch sub-fourm on watchuseek, with some very knowledgeable people. I might have to ask over there if anyone knows.
Cheers!
All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.
I like that, is it a quote from somewhere?
Of all the watches you could select for this side by side video?
As I said, its a follow up video. When the popular SNK prices shot up, they were around the same price as a Vostok Amphibia. So I thought it would be an interesting comparison between the two, for what would be a better first time automatic watch. I received a lot of comments saying they would of rather had a field vs field watch comparison, instead of a field vs dive. Thus this video was born in response.
I just discovered your channel today, and I really appreciate your content. Your first comparison video actually persuaded me away from the SNK805 by showing me a roughly similarly priced - and much more unique - watch I could swim laps with.
You've inspired me to get my own Vostok. I'm waffling between the same model Amphibia you have and an automatic, 200m WR Komandirskie (meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/vostok-watch-komandirskie-020706.html).
Thanks for making great videos!
Thanks, its good always good to hear when I've made a difference. 😀
From what I understand, the komandirskies that have 200m wr are basically built the same as the Amphibias. I think they just have more of a field watch dial. So go for whatever dial / case combo you like the best. Which the newer ones, like you linked, do have the nicer newer bezels. Haven't seen one in person, but I really like the look.
For some reason this one appeals to me too.
meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/vostok-watch-komandirskie-020715.html
But I'm not sure how the dial will look in person in the light. But I like the contrast of it and the dark bezel.
Cheers!
Seiko all the way . It seemed to be a no brainier. Love the way you use the background to bring out the watch. You make videos on good quality watches at a cheap price. .....you should check out Titan watches from India. They are cheap last very long and batteries are easily replaced. I still have a few from my childhood and although the batteries were not changed and ended up leaking just a bit of cleanup and battery change .....voila a quartz watch that lay dead for a decade springs to life. Anyways I love your videos and presentation. Thanks. Wish you well.
Thanks, I appreciate it. I've seen some Titan's on ebay, and thought about it. As well as some HMT, although I think they HMT died a few years ago. So they are on my list to check out... which seems to keep getting longer. 😎
Thanks again! Cheers!
Lovely comparison video, bud. Very, very nicely done. Hope you do more like this.
I'm not sure I'd choose either, as I'm too lazy to do anything that would justify using a tool watch of any kind. So I'll throw this name in the ring in the Dress category: Orient. Proven reliability and quality control thanks to part-Seiko ownership, cache of in-house movement, obscure name in non-watch circles (here in the US, anyway), and excellent level of finish and detail for the money. I've really grown to appreciate my little $70 3-Star more and more the longer I own it. If it weren't for the STUPID WINDING IS NOT AN OPTION movement (which is STUPID) I'd choose this watch over any number of other, more costly and better known, watches any day.
(ps. STUPID.)
Love Orient, but never looked at the 3 stars. Some point I should. I was looking at a JDM Orient Chrono on ebay the other day. Saw another video on it, and read some stuff about them online. Suposedly its sort of a hidden gem, I think its called the neo 70's.Was surprised to find out that it was solar, but I guess they make a whole lot more then what gets imported here.
Thanks again!
I liked the comparison, but I think you chose the wrong Komandirskie. Or better, you chose the old model. A steel cased Komandirskie K35, for example a 350751 ( meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/35/vostok-watch-komandirskie-350751.html ) would have been a better comparison with the Seiko.
I'll have to check the regular k35s out sometime. It seems like most people just look at the regular komandirske and amphbia, and never look at the other newer offerings. I'm currently wearing one of the amfibias (with an f) scuba I just got. Probably do the review next month.
Although if I do another Vostok vs Seiko video, I should probably compare the amphbia to a seiko diver. Just not sure which one. Could always do an SKX, but not sure if its fair to put it against a watch that's 3x as much.
Thanks for the suggestion. Cheers!
You are welcome. Thanks for the reply!
To me the new, steel cased, Komandirskie lines (K35, K65 and K02) are actually the best for the buck. They have modern and interesting dials, new features (24h dials, 12h/24h complications, GMT, small second dial at 10...), improved water resistance (100m for the K35, 200m for the K65 and K02), steel bezels, and the bushed cases seem more modern than the polished ones of the Amphibia line. For their price they are majestic watches.
You may be right. I did a review a month or so ago on a k65. Not sure if you've run across it. With 200m wr I thought it was built more like an amphibia then the mechanical komandirskie. I wonder what's different between it and the 100m k35s?
But your right, I think its a great bang for your buck. Especially that one, 650539 with the 24/gmt hand. Great price for an auto with that kind of movement.
Eventually I'd like to show case a lot more vostoks. Specifically ones that don't get much attention from other UA-camrs.
I don't know if you ever go to watchuseek.com . But in the Russian sub-forum they are doing a project watch based off a k34 with the internal compass bezel. Sort of a vostok alpinist. So far the idea is interesting.
forums.watchuseek.com/f911/
The new Komandirskie lines use the same cases of the Amphibia (case 100 for the K35, case 670 for the K65, only brushed instead of polished). The K35 doesn't have the metal retaining ring for the crystal, than instead the K65 and K02 mantain from the Amphibia line, so limiting the diving capabilities (however, i swam a lot with the old brass cased K92, so, for normal activities besides scuba diving, i'm pretty sure the K35 is fine).
Yeah, that 650539 is pretty impressive. The only thing that annoys me a little is the lack of the day display that instead the slightly more pricey Amphibia Neptune 960762 has (but i like less the dial of the watch meranom.com/en/amphibian-classic/960/vostok-watch-amphibian-classic-960762.html ) with the day at 4:30 it would be almost perfect to me.
I'll chek the discussion on watchhuseek (know the forum, but don't check it often), thanks! (unfortunately I have rather small wrists, 40mm, like the new Komandirskie cases, or the Seiko Panda, are perfect to me. 42mm starts to be pretty challenging).
Have you had any occurence of galvanic corrosion on your amphibia as experienced by your fellow watch vlogger named watch geek. He said it was probably caused by his sweat and the reaction between the 2 different metals used by vostok on the device.
Sorry for the late reply. I've seen that video as well. I haven't seen that on mine. At least I don't think so. The only odd thing I've found on my amphibia was after I took it diving. I replaced the stock crown with a stainless one. After getting out of the ocean, I noticed a red-brown substance in the grooves of the crown. Right where the logo is. Wiped it off, and never saw it again.
I had already taken it in a pool, and didn't notice anything. So this was after 1 hour in salt water. I'm not sure if it was rust, or perhaps just some residue from the manufacturing process crashing out at depth. No idea. I took it on a second dive afterward, and never saw it again.
To have Seiko serviced in Canada, you have to mail it across country & put $68.00 check. then they will look at it.
Is there only one service center in Canada?
Relative Time only one factory service centre. Its a third party authorized centre. And they are very hard on you if you bought it in the grey market.
Relative Time you can take to watch tech, but theres not even a chance of warranty or anything else.
Yeah ,but when a russian says that a watch has 20 meters WR ,it really means you can dive at 20 meters with it.
One of these days I'd love to get a komandirkse pressure tested. I think they limit it that low so they don't have to test them, even though they are more capable.
@@RelativeTime 3 weeks ago I went to a watchmaker with my father's watch ,an Orient, for servicing. And there I saw a Vostok komandirskie and I asked the watchmaker if I can take a closer look at it ,and he said sure ,and handed me the watch ,saying ,it is a good swimming watch. The watchmaker is around 60 years old and worked with a lot of watches, so I trust in his words.
P.S. sorry if my english is not so good.
I love Vostok, but it's SNK all day in a head to head.
can't decide whether to get a komandersie or an amphibia.
Well, if you want something thinner, but you have to hand wind go komanderskie. Otherwise the Amphibia is a great watch, that you won't need to worry about. Only downside is that it's a little tall.
The stock strap on the Komandirskie is a god awful crime against humanity. It’s UGLY. But it is extremely durable. Know a guy whose lasted him over a decade. It’s very tough leather and takes a month to break in (I know from experience) but once it’s broken in, it feels like it is a hard shell fitted perfectly to your wrist. No strap has ever felt so bespoke to me
Good to know, but that's some serious commitment to break it in.
Every Komandirskie I have seen says it has 200 meters of resistance, including I believe every one on Meranom.. ???
Things have changed a little bit since making this.
If you look on Meranom you will see two different sections of komandirskie. You will see Komandirskie Automatics, and Komandirskie classics.
The Automatics like the k34s are an entirely different breed. They use the same movements, but the cases are more conventional and modern.
If you look under the komandirskie classics most of those will be 20m. Yet you will find some that are 100 and maybe a few 200m. The ones that are about $40-$50 are the classically designed komandirskes that stay more true to the way they used to be. While the more expensive ones (with increased WR) are some newer designs, some of which seem to use more Amphibia parts. At least that's what I've seen.
Such as this GMT Komandirske I reviewed.
ua-cam.com/video/_kS4rf4s2JA/v-deo.html
That thing is pretty much built like an amphibia.
Here is an example of one of the classic komandirskies.
meranom.com/en/komandirskie-classic/92/vostok-watch-komandirskie-921261.html
@@RelativeTime Ahh ya I order a couple of the more expensive ones I guess. Thanks for the clarification.
Plus vostok parts are cheap.
Cool
Vostok is only £25 and Seiko is around £85 - not fair. Compare with auto with auto - lemons with lemons. bad pick.
Well that was the first video. Amphibia vs SNK.
ua-cam.com/video/ciP_zmTv5RU/v-deo.html
Yet I got a lot of comments saying it wasn't fair to have a dive watch vs a field. So I should of used a komandirskie. Hence I followed it up with this one.
Самые дешевые часы от Востока сравнил с новыми Сейками... Умора...
You can't please everyone! I think Amphibia was a better comparison but there were complaints...so you compared Komandirskie and now the critics say it's the wrong one! The "newer" Komandirskie is, in fact, Amphibia renamed. SMH
Older Komandirskies were rated at 100m. The crown, back, and crystal are all sealed using the same unique methods as Amphibia. Only the crystal thickness is different....I don't see how that alone could degrade it from 200m down to 30 m. Other than the crappy leather band, swimming is well within it's capabilities.
Thats one thing you learn real quick with a UA-cam Channel. On an early video I asked the viewers what they wanted on a futre video. Someone with their own channel advised me never to do that again... they really don't know what they want. :)
Get a couple of each and switch'm up. Both are too cheap not to indulge.
Very True. Although the problem with buying one Vostok, is that it usually leads to a whole drawer full of Vostoks. 😀
I think this is the cheaper komandirskies, there are other versions that cost more o less the same of that seiko. I think is not jair to comparade these two watches, seach for komandirskie with automatic movement.
Well, this is the classic komandirskie, which I believe is the first watch Vostok every put out. When most people think of Vostok they think either think of this or the Amphibia. In my opinion, the newer Komandirskies (at least mechanically) have more in common with the amphibians than the classic Komandirskies. I think those are closer to some of the other more expensive Seiko 5 then this snk. So this is a comparison between both Seiko and Vostoks entry level field watches.
...Yet I think your right. This is not a fair comparison. As your talking a $20-30 mechanical vs a $60-$80 automatic. To me, a more fair comparison would be comparing the Amphibia to this snk. As they are about the same price. Which is what I did previously.
ua-cam.com/video/ciP_zmTv5RU/v-deo.html
Yet I received a number of comments saying that wasn't fair comparison either as it was a field watch vs. a Dive watch. That I should have compared the SNK to a komandirskie. Which is what I did here as a followup for those that wanted to see it.
It's not even a field watch. It's a Flieger type B dial. FIeld watches have the hours in a prominent way / on the outer circle.
You are correct about the dial. Although I think everything else about it says field, especially the size.
@@RelativeTime The size doesn't make it a field watch either, and what else should the "everything else" be? The fact that the case is circular? That it has a strap? Field watch style always has hours only - either only 1-12 or 1-12 and 13-24. Field watches come in various sizes too.
@@furzkram With regards to size I was thinking the other direction. As in typically, and traditionally fliegers are much much larger. For me, this seems more like a field watch. Small, thin, easily legible, bead blasted finish, decent lume.
Either way I think we can both agree that it's a military style watch, and as far as for my opinion it's a field watch with a Flieger style dial. In fact, I have said so in some video. I don't remember if it's this one or another. As far as I know, there is no hard definition of what truly makes a field watch. In fact, I've seen some threads on watchuseek debating it. But if you don't agree, and want to call it a Flieger, I have no problem with that either.
Although I should point out I'm not alone in that assumption. Seen plenty of other people refer to the SNK as field watches. Doesn't mean that I'm "right and your wrong" . Just that it's an opinion I share with many others.
ua-cam.com/video/t221kyN79qI/v-deo.html
@@RelativeTime when watches were turned from pocket to wristwatches during the war times, the are actually a military invention so to speak. And they were a lot smaller than today's 40-45 millimeters. Even pilots watches weren't as big as today.
You still find a lot of pilots watches of smaller sizes. Check out Fortis for example.
@@furzkram True. Although I think, "think" the key word, fleigers were much larger. Designed to be easily readable while piloting, and designed to be fit over a leather jacket.
Otherwise, I believe you are correct. Fashion, or maybe it's just a trend has made much larger. Sometimes too large to be practical.
Seiko is the safe choice. At least the fan boys won't come after me in the comments!
O believe me... nothing stops a true fan boy. 😎
I'm sorry but it is kinda a curse for any items to be tagged "Made in Russia". From the other hand "Made or invented in Japan" is kinda a blessing) So, Seiko SNK is the watch to go!
I'm not sure I would call it a curse, but it definitely has a different meaning then Made in Japan. For a lot of us who grew up during the cold war, there is a novelty for owning a Russian watch. Similar to why a lot of gun collectors like AKs, even though they are fairly cheap.
I was born in USSR, i know it well from a "dark side". Soviet Union was quite lucky to get a lot of invention patents when Germany's companies were stripped off right after WWII. Rumours has it even AK you've mentioned was invented in Germany during WWII. Not too many iconic things were invented from the scratch in USSR. They weren't even good in creating replicas either. Things like Leica cameras.
I think I remember hearing that rumor about the AK, but I don't remember the details. I think it was because Kalashnikov had never invented anything before. Not to mention the huge amount of propaganda that surrounded the origins afterwards.
My father was an electrical engineer, and worked for the US Navy during the 80s. His expertise was on Radar and Sonar systems. So he was always fascinated with Soviet technology, or what was being developed. Just a very different philosophy from a design perspective then what he was doing.
@@RelativeTime YT commenters often spread fakes regarding Kalashnikov etc. What did Sudaev invented before his PPS? Or Shpagin before his famous PPSh? Nothing special, indeed. Same we can say about Kalashnikov - however he did developed a tank engine hours counter, which was quite similar to a clock, btw. So there's no any curse or whatever, that's all just BS and bias. Manufacturing sometimes was really low-tech, but the engineering was often innovative in many aspects.
utilize utilize utilize.....
It is difficult to determine which watch is actually better. The brass case is definitely inferior than the steel one on the Seiko, yet if you are into modding, it is quite appealing to go for the Vostok and remove all the chrome plating. Looks awesome. I have had so many QC issues on my Seikos (basically all 3 of them have had issues I fixed myself) in the past, that I would give both companies 0 or 1 point. The Vostok should run like forever, those watches were designed to be worn by soldiers in the Soviet Union. The spare parts for Vostok are cheap AF and learning to repair them if something should break is part of the experience of buying socialist "technology".
Russian watches are good on it's own but thay can't beat Japanese watches
I think your voice has a lot to do with people s opinion of Vostok watches...with your persuasive voice you should steer people towards the Vostok...You never mention the 10 year service life...or the fact that in many cases the Vostok would go over 200m ...you are an obvious Seiko fan...The Vostok is made better....in-house movement...who cares about changing the date...that's just sheer laziness...
Well in my defense, I don't consider the date too big an issue. At least not when the watch is a few days behind. It's more when the watch is set for the 8th, and the date is the 5th. That's when it gets a bit annoying. I've had a few people tell me they just ignore the date on theirs. Which is always an option.
Now your point about 200m of water resistance would be valid on my other Seiko Vs Vostok video, but I don't think it applies to the komandirskie. I know some people think the komandirskie has just as good water resistance as an amphibia, even though they rate it at 30. But I can't really judge it on what people think. I have to go with what it's actually rated for. At least until I see someone actually test it to that pressure.
I actually don't consider myself a Seiko fan. Heck, I've long since sold that seiko, but kept my amphibia. I'd have to go count, but I think I've reviewed as many vostoks as Seiko. Or at least it's close. I'm one of the few channels that's looked beyond the regular komandirskies and amphibias. It's just that I think Seiko is a better option for someone new to watches. Once you know what's "normal" then I think you can appreciate the fun oddities that come with owning a vostok.
Out of curiosity, what do you think about this Ampfibia review?
ua-cam.com/video/4wd-vnFs0NQ/v-deo.html
Team Seiko SNK805 👌👌