I think one of the reasons to change the proportions so much is making the reissue model (SLA025) suitable for He- saturation diving. Let's remember the 6159 can't be used for saturation diving. Regardless, great video, sir!
Hey Spencer, I’m sure you guessed I’ve got to throw in my 2 (maybe closer to 4) cents worth on this watch. I’m now almost 2 weeks into wearing my new SLA025 and have a few points to add. First off, I agree that the gilt overall is very subdued. But unlike you, that’s a HUGE plus for me. I’m not a gilt/gold/2-tone guy...my whole collection is SS divers with black dials. So my main concern was if this watch was going to be an over-the-top, 80’s hairy chest hanging out of the top 3 open buttons w/ gold necklace blasting in my eyes kind of gilt treatment. To my relief & great joy, when my 025 arrived I was on cloud nine to see the gold aspects of the watch are so subtle you practically have to search for them. So for me, that was a huge plus. I think the bezel action needs to get some praise and lovin...this 025 is a joy to operate from the tall, easy to grip edges to the crisp, pleasant clicks. I would put this bezel in the top 3 of my collection (and that’s knocking off a few top tier Swiss makes). The OEM silicon waffle is a thing of beauty. I normally can’t stand bands (I’m a SS bracelet lover). I find I can actually wear the watch somewhat loose simply because the comfortable soft grip keeps the watch secure without pressure. I haven’t experienced any hair pulling and trust me, when people see my arm hair they know I’m not a pre-pubescent youngster cruising around with daddy’s chunky dive watch on. Also, the flat case allows for the most pleasant wrist contact I’ve ever experienced out of a larger diver. And the substantial underside curves of the case make it a joy to wear. When the wrist is bent at extreme angle, the case simply conforms to top of hand and wrist. I realize the 6159 is probably identical on this front, but in the end the SLA025 is a watch I wanted because I want to do with it what I would never do to a real 6159...that being swim, dive and use the watch as intended. You say it’s a watch you would treat like a 6159, but not me. The reissues are my dream as I can finally use classic Seiko designs as intended without fear. Lastly, as a previous owner of a MM300, we will have to agree to disagree on that watch. Yes the MM is a better bang for buck proposition, but it’s too dime a dozen for my desires. And because of that, I could never fall in love with it. Not so for this SLA025. In a world made up of literally millions of Seiko watch lovers, I enjoy knowing I’m one of the lucky 1500 owners worldwide that has this amazing watch in my collection. 30+ yrs from now the MM300 is going to be a really cool watch, but the SLA025 will be in a league very much beyond just “cool watch”...and to me, that’s worth the price of LE admission. Well, at least that’s my opinion anyways. Thanks again for the review - cheers!
Thanks for all that input and perspective. As I said at the start of the video, the review was my impression of the watch as me, not as the final judge & jury. Watches are a deeply personal thing, and some work for some people, and not for others.
Oh I get it...if we all loved the same aspects of a watch there would be no varieties and what fun would that be? Believe it or not, I purchased the 025 from a European AD and never experienced it before it arrived and I was kind of hoping to NOT fall in love with it. God knows I don’t need any more watches (damn...I’m now sounding like my wife), but I just had to get the 025 out of my system. So upon arrival I was kinda hoping there would be an instant deal killer for me. I’m not the type of guy that can “talk myself into a watch”. If I don’t like any aspect, it’s usually flipped almost instantly. But this 025 just has that IT factor to me. Hard to sum up, but it sings to me and I don’t think pictures or videos really do it justice (like many watches). All that said, I do have one minor knock on it...and it’s what you mentioned at the end of the video...regulation. Mine is currently running at +9...while not terrible, it’s a tough pill to swallow when my SRP789 (Coke Turtle) has been running at +2 since day one of ownership. When a sub $300 Seiko is dominating a $5K Seiko, it makes you scratch your head?! But love is a strange beast that makes us overlook some flaws...and I’m guilty of that when it comes to the regulation of my 025. Cheers! P.S. I constantly show my 6105 to all my watch friends and praise your talents in bringing that watch back to life. Thanks again...I’ve converted many “non-Seiko” guys after only a few minutes of experiencing that classic.
You arr right seiko for some unknown reasons LOVE throwing proportions off in any re issues only 2 years they are just starting to get them right, but what do you think about marinemaster 200m ?
I agonized over purchasing the SLA025, as my Seiko grail is without doubt the 6159. I can live with minor differences, but the dimensions were the final nail in the coffin for the 025. I ended up going with the first generation of the SBDX017. It really is a great watch. I’d consider trading for an SBDX012 just to be a little closer to Grandaddy with the gilt hands and indices. It’s interesting to see the love you now have for the MM300. I remember in an earlier clip you were a little reticent about extolling its virtues. They really do grow on you. The SLA023 has a completely different feel. Seiko should never have removed the Marinemaster text from the dial. I also find the ceramic bezel to lack the deep lustre and character of the original.
Good point about the SLA025 being a re-skin of the MM300 - as you say, the similar proportions seem to indicate that this is the case. I suppose some of the added thickness might be due to the SLA025 and MM300 being He-gas-safe saturation divers rather than an air scuba diver like the original 6159, though they have the same depth rating. The new MM300s with the sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel insert at 15.4 mm are thicker than the original MM300s.
Appreciate your review, I almost bought this watch and I really liked it but I didn't think it was worth the asking price. If the watch was selling in the sub $4k price range I think it might be worth it. It's a beautiful watch in my opinion but then again I'm not as picky as you are. However, Even if both were being offered at the same price I would pick the MM300 over this watch. I just really love the MM300. I guess we agree on that point.
Interesting to hear your take compared to the first generation Marine master. Have you had a chance to take a look at the more affordable reissue? I absolutely love mine as an offers the design aesthetic without the price tag. My only wish is that they did something different with the hands!
Boy, did this video ever make me feel good about my SBDX001 MM300! ;) Seriously, though, I do love my MM300 and have since the day I bought it used two summers ago (I managed to score it just before the prices went crazy), and especially now that I've worked out the perfect bracelet solution for my tastes. Anyway, you mentioned in this video that you recently serviced your MM300...any chance you'll do a video about that? I'd love to see what this thing looks like inside but I certainly don't have anything close to the courage or skill required to open it up.
Totally different subject Have a Omega Seamaster 300M 42mm shocked by 🤔 how accurate my Seiko Captain Willard limited edition 8L35 movement is more accurate than my Omega Seamaster. So selling the Omega Seamaster Seiko for life
I own both and the 025 is way more comfortable on the wrist then the standard MM due to the high beveled cuts on the side of the case. I couldn’t believe the difference.
I don't do vintage Seiko divers so much as the chronographs which is where I spend nearly all of my time. That said I like the reissue for all of the superficial reasons but not for the price. I realize that the movement is special, but to Spencer's point, for the money I would rather get a MM. At the $5K level there are a whole lot of options and the one time I have done this was for a special edition Omega Speedmaster. But this is just me.
Hi guys! Was the 6159 in space? I just heard something about that and wanted to get your take on it thanks! Vi
I think one of the reasons to change the proportions so much is making the reissue model (SLA025) suitable for He- saturation diving. Let's remember the 6159 can't be used for saturation diving. Regardless, great video, sir!
Who the hell uses these for diving, let alone saturation diving?
For that matter who the hell dives in the first place?
@@mainlymusicman go ask Seiko
@@mainlymusicman "I don't do the thing so nobody does the thing"
Hey Spencer, I’m sure you guessed I’ve got to throw in my 2 (maybe closer to 4) cents worth on this watch.
I’m now almost 2 weeks into wearing my new SLA025 and have a few points to add.
First off, I agree that the gilt overall is very subdued. But unlike you, that’s a HUGE plus for me. I’m not a gilt/gold/2-tone guy...my whole collection is SS divers with black dials. So my main concern was if this watch was going to be an over-the-top, 80’s hairy chest hanging out of the top 3 open buttons w/ gold necklace blasting in my eyes kind of gilt treatment. To my relief & great joy, when my 025 arrived I was on cloud nine to see the gold aspects of the watch are so subtle you practically have to search for them. So for me, that was a huge plus.
I think the bezel action needs to get some praise and lovin...this 025 is a joy to operate from the tall, easy to grip edges to the crisp, pleasant clicks. I would put this bezel in the top 3 of my collection (and that’s knocking off a few top tier Swiss makes).
The OEM silicon waffle is a thing of beauty. I normally can’t stand bands (I’m a SS bracelet lover). I find I can actually wear the watch somewhat loose simply because the comfortable soft grip keeps the watch secure without pressure. I haven’t experienced any hair pulling and trust me, when people see my arm hair they know I’m not a pre-pubescent youngster cruising around with daddy’s chunky dive watch on.
Also, the flat case allows for the most pleasant wrist contact I’ve ever experienced out of a larger diver. And the substantial underside curves of the case make it a joy to wear. When the wrist is bent at extreme angle, the case simply conforms to top of hand and wrist. I realize the 6159 is probably identical on this front, but in the end the SLA025 is a watch I wanted because I want to do with it what I would never do to a real 6159...that being swim, dive and use the watch as intended. You say it’s a watch you would treat like a 6159, but not me. The reissues are my dream as I can finally use classic Seiko designs as intended without fear.
Lastly, as a previous owner of a MM300, we will have to agree to disagree on that watch. Yes the MM is a better bang for buck proposition, but it’s too dime a dozen for my desires. And because of that, I could never fall in love with it.
Not so for this SLA025. In a world made up of literally millions of Seiko watch lovers, I enjoy knowing I’m one of the lucky 1500 owners worldwide that has this amazing watch in my collection. 30+ yrs from now the MM300 is going to be a really cool watch, but the SLA025 will be in a league very much beyond just “cool watch”...and to me, that’s worth the price of LE admission. Well, at least that’s my opinion anyways. Thanks again for the review - cheers!
Thanks for all that input and perspective. As I said at the start of the video, the review was my impression of the watch as me, not as the final judge & jury. Watches are a deeply personal thing, and some work for some people, and not for others.
Oh I get it...if we all loved the same aspects of a watch there would be no varieties and what fun would that be? Believe it or not, I purchased the 025 from a European AD and never experienced it before it arrived and I was kind of hoping to NOT fall in love with it. God knows I don’t need any more watches (damn...I’m now sounding like my wife), but I just had to get the 025 out of my system. So upon arrival I was kinda hoping there would be an instant deal killer for me. I’m not the type of guy that can “talk myself into a watch”. If I don’t like any aspect, it’s usually flipped almost instantly.
But this 025 just has that IT factor to me. Hard to sum up, but it sings to me and I don’t think pictures or videos really do it justice (like many watches).
All that said, I do have one minor knock on it...and it’s what you mentioned at the end of the video...regulation. Mine is currently running at +9...while not terrible, it’s a tough pill to swallow when my SRP789 (Coke Turtle) has been running at +2 since day one of ownership. When a sub $300 Seiko is dominating a $5K Seiko, it makes you scratch your head?! But love is a strange beast that makes us overlook some flaws...and I’m guilty of that when it comes to the regulation of my 025. Cheers!
P.S. I constantly show my 6105 to all my watch friends and praise your talents in bringing that watch back to life. Thanks again...I’ve converted many “non-Seiko” guys after only a few minutes of experiencing that classic.
You arr right seiko for some unknown reasons LOVE throwing proportions off in any re issues only 2 years they are just starting to get them right, but what do you think about marinemaster 200m ?
I haven't seen it, otherwise I'd let you know!
I agonized over purchasing the SLA025, as my Seiko grail is without doubt the 6159. I can live with minor differences, but the dimensions were the final nail in the coffin for the 025. I ended up going with the first generation of the SBDX017. It really is a great watch.
I’d consider trading for an SBDX012 just to be a little closer to Grandaddy with the gilt hands and indices.
It’s interesting to see the love you now have for the MM300. I remember in an earlier clip you were a little reticent about extolling its virtues. They really do grow on you.
The SLA023 has a completely different feel. Seiko should never have removed the Marinemaster text from the dial. I also find the ceramic bezel to lack the deep lustre and character of the original.
Good point about the SLA025 being a re-skin of the MM300 - as you say, the similar proportions seem to indicate that this is the case. I suppose some of the added thickness might be due to the SLA025 and MM300 being He-gas-safe saturation divers rather than an air scuba diver like the original 6159, though they have the same depth rating. The new MM300s with the sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel insert at 15.4 mm are thicker than the original MM300s.
I love how you think through these nice watch pieces.
I appreciate that!
Such a personal opinion is refreshing and instructive, thanks!
Glad you think so!
Hi, I too really wanted to like the SLA 025 but I just couldn't connect. Ended up with the SLA019. Love it. It spends most days on my wrist.
Appreciate your review, I almost bought this watch and I really liked it but I didn't think it was worth the asking price. If the watch was selling in the sub $4k price range I think it might be worth it. It's a beautiful watch in my opinion but then again I'm not as picky as you are. However, Even if both were being offered at the same price I would pick the MM300 over this watch. I just really love the MM300. I guess we agree on that point.
That is a beautiful watch 👍 👍👍👍👍👍
All of these watches are amazing 😍
i am in love with my SLA019, watch with 100 look's, depending on the light.
Interesting to hear your take compared to the first generation Marine master. Have you had a chance to take a look at the more affordable reissue? I absolutely love mine as an offers the design aesthetic without the price tag. My only wish is that they did something different with the hands!
I actually like the SPDC 051
sort of, sort of, sort of, sort of, sort of, sort of
Hey Spencer I was wondering if you had an extra 7009-3110 movement and gold dial that you would sell. If not do you know a good place I might find 1?
Great comparison! Impressive analysis. Thanks! What is the Reference of the MarineMasters?
My opinion is that the Marine Master is a nicer watch for 20% of the price
I'd have to agree.
your 100 percent right
Boy, did this video ever make me feel good about my SBDX001 MM300! ;) Seriously, though, I do love my MM300 and have since the day I bought it used two summers ago (I managed to score it just before the prices went crazy), and especially now that I've worked out the perfect bracelet solution for my tastes.
Anyway, you mentioned in this video that you recently serviced your MM300...any chance you'll do a video about that? I'd love to see what this thing looks like inside but I certainly don't have anything close to the courage or skill required to open it up.
MM300 is a high beat?
The new marine master is even taller.
Totally different subject Have a Omega Seamaster 300M 42mm shocked by 🤔 how accurate my Seiko Captain Willard limited edition 8L35 movement is more accurate than my Omega Seamaster.
So selling the Omega Seamaster
Seiko for life
SLA025はダイヤモンドシールドがついているので、どんなにひどい傷があっても再研磨はできません。
つまり、日常的に使うのであれば、捨てる覚悟と金銭的な覚悟が必要です。観賞用であれば、オリジナルの方が良いです。
My Japanese is nonexistent but thank you for your comment.
I own both and the 025 is way more comfortable on the wrist then the standard MM due to the high beveled cuts on the side of the case. I couldn’t believe the difference.
And over double price😂
tool watch on a leather strap lol
I don't do vintage Seiko divers so much as the chronographs which is where I spend nearly all of my time. That said I like the reissue for all of the superficial reasons but not for the price. I realize that the movement is special, but to Spencer's point, for the money I would rather get a MM. At the $5K level there are a whole lot of options and the one time I have done this was for a special edition Omega Speedmaster. But this is just me.
I would be happy to pay maybe $50-$100 for that re-issue, but that is it for me
Yes...toooooo expensive