Best Watch for a Tight Budget ($350!) | Watchfinder & Co.
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- Опубліковано 6 вер 2024
- The best of anything is often well out of reach of most people. But that doesn’t mean good and even excellent should be too. Seiko is one brand that gets this, utilising volume and technology to cater to an audience looking to appreciate a fine, mechanical watch for a price that’s a bit more down to Earth. Here are three reasons why the new $350 SRPD is one watch you should be looking at.
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Seiko 5 Sports SRPD71k1
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Finally.. A watch I can actually afford in Watchfinder
I feel like the idea of watch finder is to show us the exotic, antique, and odd. Watches like this are easily found looking around.
There are always exceptional examples in all price ranges, though.
I think.
@@andrewkennaugh4974 I feel like the idea of watch finder is to find a watch you want/can buy; a buyer meets a seller. At least that's what they say they're about
He featured a casio duro a few months ago.....
I was unable to find this watch on the site your promoting. Oh well I will look for it else where.
ME2
I told you
He can make "cheap" watches look like it cost $15,000
At the first glance most watches look the same, and the high prices (100k+) are obviously mostly mark up and branding, the fakes show whats possible at a low price
I want him to review a wish watch lol and make it look like the pinnacle of watch making
For a lot of People 350$ is not cheap
@@slo8432 inexpensive for a watch
@@slo8432 that's why i said "cheap"
I'm glad you listened to us .... Now it's ur turn to receive this ... A BIG THANK YOU ❤️❤️❤️
The channel has actually already featured at least two Seikos in the past! Check em out! They're just as good!
Supported! Exceellent stuff
More budget pieces please!
No, we're going to look at another $99999999 Patek on the next episode. Would be nice to see some more down-to-Earth pieces instead.
Yes please.
YEEEAHHHH !! yes please!!
We all broke please
Never thought my watch would be on watchfinder one day❤️❤️❤️❤️
Seiko❤️
same here
i had this with coctail time
Me too!
@@rozsik93 Yes, I have that one too!
Watching this and thinking the same :D
the Apple Watch was my gateway drug into the world of watches. I wasn't even interested in the Apple Watch until my dad got one for free and gave it to me, and I tried it on because it was - well, free. Once I got used to wearing a watch, I got annoyed with how I had to charge it, so my eyes began to wander. Now I'm 4 watches deep into Seiko and eyeing that Grand Seiko...
It seems I'm the only one in my college who wears a proper watch. Everyone's nowadays wearing fitness bands or apple watch which last 2 years and become e-waste.
@@panzer3279 I see most people wearing Daniel Wellingtons, Fitbids and Apple Watches. I guess in comparison to Seiko mechanical watches, they offer better value for money for most people since Daniel Wellingtons are more stylish in their eyes, and the Apple Watch offers loads of functionality.
@@burnoutvista wait what? Daniel Wellington provides more value for money !!! 😂😂
@@burnoutvista Mate... are you actually drunk? Never in a million years will DW provide more value for money over any mechanical watch :0
Seiko is 4 watches deep into you 😋
Anyone else wearing a Seiko whilst watching this?
Skx 009
Sla021 Marinemaster on a Crafter blue integrated strap with stock quick adjust bracelet actually
Mm200
7002 7001. Precursor to the SKX. I also have the 009. This is just a fashion watch.
Wearing my dresskx today
Good on you for giving this little gem the same care and treatment you'd give top tier $20+K watches. Really shows that you're a true watch lover rather than just someone who wants to sell the most expensive stuff because it makes you money. A tip of that hat to you for this lovely review.
Seiko: An undeniable powerhouse watchmaker. Reliable. Affordable (or expensive, if you want that too). Durable. Historical. Tough as sh*t!
Well at least they used to be. If they keep making moves like this that reputation isn’t long for this world.
@@psychalogy they’ve always had their hands in too many cookie jars. To me, the real issue is their poor QC. It’s sad that when I buy a $1200 diver from them, I have to shop around for an aligned bezel
@@edk2221 there is a real difference between Japan built watches and those built elsewhere. My original SKX007K has the misaligned bezel they’re famous for and doesn’t keep amazing time. The SKX009J I bought afterwards had neither of those problems. Cost a little more but totally worth it.
@@psychalogy I’ve read that, about the J models. I’ll keep that in mind next time I get a Seiko. Wish it was consistent.
@@edk2221 yeah I’m hearing you. If you get a good one they’re amazing value, but if you don’t...
Never thought I'd see a 4R36 or some such under Watchfinder's macro lens, and I'm here for it!
How this channel continues to write just good videos is beyond me. It doesn’t matter if watchfinder is explaining grand complications or they are heaping prays on a modest seiko brand. This channel nails the sense of wonder for watch enthusiasts. Good job please keep the content coming.
agree. seiko is no modest brand though.
Here here!
Agree. Other experts would be ranting on a seiko5
Seiko watches are affordable because they are mass produced in a factory. They are very high quality though.
"It's a sign of the times. The SKX lasted way longer than anyone expected, way longer than any other watchmaker cared to brave, but the time has come for a new era. And rather than be an era where the mechanical watch dies as younger audiences move into gadgetry instead, Seiko is doing its level best to keep what we all profess to stand for....alive. Sometimes, I wonder if there are those who would rather see the industry collapse, than change. And that's why the SRPD is such great news - not just for those who don't have thousands to spend - but for everyone else, as well. It's an investment in the future of mechanical watchmaking, in a package that looks just about perfect. A siren call to the apple-watch-wearing generation, that will one day have the power to pull this thing we hold so dear, out...from under our feet. All it takes is an image, a thumbnail perhaps, a passing glance, and mechanical watches are another person closer to being safe for many decades to come. Could the SKX do that?"
Pure poetry.
Obviously the SKX was still selling well enough for the design to be kept alive. What I’ll never understand is why they didn’t give the upgrades of the 5KX to the SKX instead of releasing this wannabe imposter fashion watch! I will never buy one of those!
@@pacovl46 that's what the Prospex series is for
@@klomlk you’re missing my point!
@@pacovl46 ur missing the point of the 5kx
@@gautambose No, I’m not. I’m perfectly aware that Seiko has moved all their dive watches over to the prospex label and that the 5KX is a fashion watch that’s meant to cater to a younger audience. That still doesn’t change my opinion about the 5KX nor the discontinuation of the SKX!
Minor correction: the caseback is not sapphire, great content though!
Yep, hardlex
Good spot! Force of habit...
Yeah, was about to type this. We all know under $600, u wont get sapphire.
@@wijayaj001 I have 2 watches with Sapphire glass for $500 (Khaki Field Auto) and $300 (Orient Kamasu)
@@fow7139 though orient and seiko are under epson, but different management. Even i find it more money worth in orient than the seiko 5.
The finish of this watch for its price is simply unbeatable
I genuinely appreciate how you manage to make content about an entry-level piece as rich and entertaining to watch as for a top-notch timepiece. Love this channel!
I waited a long time for you to give Seiko its due. From all of us here, that started with a Seiko, Thank you sir. This is my favourite of your videos ever!
This channel does actually already have at least two videos featuring Seiko! Check em out, they're amazing!
Just waiting for mine to arrive in the post. I’m 42 and it’s the first real watch I’ve owned. I’m looking forward to it 😊
I got the blue one. After fine tuning, this watch will be on my wrist for a very long time. I never get tired of looking at it. I don't get the same satisfaction wearing a smart watche. I got few band I swap every now and then... I love it.
I have to say - just got a seiko presage for my 18th. I'm in love with it. The dial is simply stunning, and seiko are second to none in this price range
They are also amazingly comfortable to wear.
@@tillybooj his wearing?
"Sometimes I wonder if there are those who would rather see the industry collapse than change".
This quote fits nicely a lot of the Watches and Wonders commentary we've seen as well.
The Far East Trinity should be covered here. Seiko, Citizen, and Orient. :)
Massive SKX fan.....and you brought up excellent points on the SRPD keeping the interest of mechanicals alive! Very well presented and thought out points. I was disappointed when the SRPD lost its ISO rating....but I think you may have converted me on it. Very well done.
Yes they lost ISO rating and 1/2 water resistace but inversely proportional gain price, almost double to SKX's. Of course there is a VERY VERY important hack function on caliber that is accurate -25/+45 sec/per day by default. By the way I will never replace my SKX for this hype/pseudo/fancy diver
@@stevanpavic who dives with these watches anyway, most use dive computers.
@@stevanpavic agreed. I will never replace my SKX either and the SRPD is definitely not for me. But the point that it may help keep our hobby alive is valid
@@chrillebab I got pleasure to dive with my SKX. I'm not PADI nor I got certificate but for recreational purposes.
@@chrillebab I'm a diving professional. I've had my SKX for decades. It's an essential tool.
I’ve been watching too much JOMW, because I see $350 and think “that’s pretty expensive” 🤣
LOL!
JOMW?
@@yamin789 Just One More Watch
@@yamin789 Just One More Watch
@@yamin789 you'll love jomw
As the owner of an SKX, there's something to be said that it's built as a true dive watch. But the lack of hacking, hand winding, see through caseback, and drilled lugs is a compelling argument for the SRPD.
Unless you're actually a diver the srpd is a better watch with a better movement and it's still good down to 100 meters.
I love that mic drop statement at the end of this video-it just shows this channel’s passion for watches regardless of price.
I've watched every one of your videos for the past 2 1/2 years, roughly, and your voice is so enjoyable to listen to. I didn't think it could get any better....until I just heard you say "flying fancy"! Sufficiently made my day.
I got mine for $153 with coupons from Kohls during their December sales :D
I remember when these first came out people were bashing it. I got the green dial with rose gold markers version - I'm still in love with it like the first day I saw it 😍
I just ran into a crazy deal and picked up a brand new one today for under $200. Very satisfied.
Grabbed one of these without the bezel after walking past it in the shop window everyday for a couple of months. My first automatic watch and I love it. I do wish it had saphire though, I'm scared of catching it on something when I go out haha.
On holiday in Australia from England and purchased my first ever automatic after owning many Citizen and Casio solar models.
Purchased the Supercars 2023 special edition of this model and absolutely love it. The buying experience, ownership and love for the watch all awesome.
Genuine thanks for pointing me in this direction, carry on with the wonderful videos.
Your passion for watches shines through.
The MSRP on a lot of Seiko 5 Sports models is actually closer to $300 or even below! Definitely a fantastic watch for the money!
Also, small correction, but the caseback I'm fairly certain is hardlex, not sapphire.
The MSRP is usually ridiculously over marked on most lower to middle end Seikos. If you buy them at that price you'd be nuts. I've seen SNK800 series around 50 dollars higher than they should be and department store Seikos around $100 off where they should be. They are good watches no matter what you just need to shop around for the best deal.
I know this comment is old, but the Seiko 5 scene in this video can be found on Amazon is the US for around $220. I got a open box one on eBay for $180.
So yeah. Completely overpriced MSRP
@@borgerandfries4139 I just bought this on rubber strap for $180 at Costco!
I've got one of these on order.
I used to be a scuba instructor, on my wrist was an ugly, plastic and very practical dive computer. Knowing you depth, ascent rate and nitrogen time is important, having a beautiful mechanical dive watch is not.
Life moved on and now I want something that reminds me of my time in the salt while being a practical watch that represents what is interesting and important in watches.
This thing is perfect.
For anyone who says "it's not a real dive watch", no it's not; nothing without a depth gauge is.
Wow seiko 5's on this channel yay
I wear my blue and red bezel one every day. Its a good watch
At last! Someone who recognises that the SRPD is not the SKX replacement. Excellent video.
Except that it looks exactly like an SKX. Seiko are pulling a fast one with this release.
A poke in the eye for those that think Watchfinder videos are just for the rich and for certain brands. Clearly this content isn't edited or cleared by the owners before publication, which is a great thing.
I can imagine this video was a sacrifice to make in some regard, since this watch isn't for sale through Watchfinder. I just think it's wonderful that you were willing to make that sacrifice just so a few commenters could be happy. You treated this Seiko with as much care as any Triple Split or Royal Oak. This channel serves as validation for a lot of watch lovers, and I'll bet your opinion carries more weight than any other in the community, even the big "H". Some young person somewhere now gets to feel like their favorite watch is just as special and means as much as any haute horology piece ever could, and that is how I think we will save this industry.
Well said.
Agreed and well said. I love this channel because it shows that you there are great watches from all price tiers. Love how this watch got the same awesome video format and macro and such that any haute horology piece does.
Accurate and appropriate! Great comment
this guys videos got me into mechanical watches because of how cleverly and professionally he reviews films and talks about watches with such fervor and this is my first substantial watch purchase and dip into higher end watches vs the 50 dollar amphibia and Casio's i bought and to see it here makes me so happy
Got one of these a month ago and love it! Phenomenal first mechanical watch
I own big boy watches with crazy prices, independents too, but I love watches of all prices and I just bought the champagne dial version of this Seiko on a mesh bracelet. I LOVE it.
Never thought i was going to see a Watchfinder's video talking about a Seiko 5, i hope they do justice to Orient
Wow, finally a watch mere mortals can afford is featured on this channel. The new Seiko 5 is really a great value for money watch. I personally own the SRPD55K1 and I absolutely love it.
Never thought I would see a Seiko, much less at this price point, in the Watchfinder. And let me tell you, I'm totally here for it. Always have loved Seiko and always will. Amazon video like always
This video explains perfectly my love for Seiko. I'm only 17 and I really hope to own and collect watches from iconic companies like Rolex, Breitling, Audemars Piguet, Jacob & Co, etc someday. However, for now, on my limited budget, I can piece together over the course of few years a relatively cool collection. I currently have a Seiko 5 sports "Sea Urchin" and soon to come a Seiko "King Samurai" which is simply just awesome. I realise there are even cheaper companies out there, Invicta for example, or Aliexpress bargains like Pagani Design. However, the attraction for me with Seiko is the name and the history. I know that on my wrist I am wearing a brand that means something, and will get the nod of approval from higher-end watch collectors.
Seiko is in fact a great brand, it's got personality and charisma that some luxury brands doesn't have. In a 100.000 dollars collection to have a Seiko make sense.
so true!
I have loved Seiko for years and was finally able to get my first - an SRPD93 from Costco - yesterday for just $179.99, which I've gathered is a fantastic value for the "amount of watch" you get. This thing is absolutely gorgeous, and although I may eventually get another bracelet to replace the silicone strap mine came with, the silicone itself is honestly quite nice and comfortable as well. Such a beautiful design.
I heard so many people complain about this line of Seiko 5's. Honestly, I really like their style!
I just got mine. Its stunning. Really stunning.
@@jeanphilippefahrni9906 Congrats! I'll get mine in a couple of months ahah
I bought one of these a month ago and I'm so happy to see you appreciate it as much as I do. Fantastic watch!
Finally the best Watch Brand of them All 🤩 Seiko.
Hmm nope
@@vianouche1 keep the hate going hater 😂
@@iamafutsalplayer1429 Bro, that was no hate, there's enaugh to criticize Seiko for.
Straps for example, crap...
This is probably the first time you featured something I could actually afford, but I still love your channel. Thumbs up always.
My sons bought the Naruto set. It's not just different colors. The details on dials, markers, rehaut and bezels are different too and look really good. You can send thousands and not have these to appreciate.
Nailed it. I love my SKX, an enthusiast can see it a mike away. But to stay alive and relevant l, change is needed.
Can you do some on any of the Prospex line?
I wear my Seiko SRPD93 daily, and it’s insanely reliable. Also, certain models are less than $350 in some cases. Also, the 4R36 movement is found in many of the higher-priced Prospex pieces, so it’s a solid movement at a deep bargain.
Props to Seiko for making a reliable piece as appealing as possible to everyone. My 93 speaks to me because it’s got the perfect combo of blue/cream alongside a great silicon strap. Can’t recommend this line enough.
I still cannot believe your doing a video on this watch! So elastic that you did this! My first mechanical watch was the skx007. I still wear it today!
I truly love this watch , I’ve only dreamed of owning a Rolex or any expensive watch for that matter and now I feel confident in owning a Great Watch and not have to break the Bank !
Thanks Buddy 🙏🏼
Wearing my PADI Turtle while watching this. Love this thing. Best bang around watch out there.
Finally my watch on this channel.. But the case back is not saphire if I am not wrong..
Great video! Love everyone complaining about the "step down" in specs who probably haven't taken their SKX more than 10M under the waves.
@MClayton 25 absolutely, it's a fun novelty "backup" because us watch people are crazy and need a watch for everything, but you're not gonna rely on it.
I didn’t think you can make this channel any better.
This video just did
Even though you have compared values at different prices, I don’t remember any reviews under 1k.
For a watch lover, I appreciate your always fascinating takes on important watches, regardless of price.
The design and production challenges to overcome to provide good-excellence watches that bear witnesses to important moments in the lives of most watch owners should be admired.
“Plain Janes” are very good for our souls.
Whole new level of respect for your channel.
Seiko SKX009 owner here. Thanks so much for this! Can you do Orient please?
I was thinking about getting a budget watch,can’t believe watchfinder made a video on it , and than of course it’s a sekio
I own a couple of Seiko 5 Sports from the generation before and I am still amazed about their reliability and accuracy related to the price.
your view about the mission of the SRPD blows my mind. Thank you, now i know what i want to get for the first piece in my watch collection journey
Seiko in an amazing brand, great classics in all their categories, not jewelry watches but Real realible watches.
Cant wait; For my next Watch will be a SRPD71k2 Seiko & I am not one bit ashamed !
PLEASE FEATURE THE SEIKO SPB143!
My first proper watch and I feel like it is a brilliant price for what you get!
The srpd65k1 is my first watch. It is cheap, good looking and accurate, it was never meant to be as a replacement for the skx diver, it is meant for street wear (diver style) as it says in their catalogue. I think the target market for this line are the younger audiences that do light recreational activities. You know, that doesn’t go swimming 200m everyday. Cool video as always!
I have exactly this model. The only thing what I did to make them look even better is changed aluminium bezel to ceramic batman.
this will be my Christmas gift to myself, just saw one today and looks and feel amazing.
I feel a little more at home here now wearing my Citizen Eco-Drive 4004...
With a collection that includes a Patek, a Rolex, a LeCoutlre, and a Heuer, I feel it worth pointing out that my first "good" watch, a Citizen EcoDrive BM8180-03E, still gets enough use to be on its third NOS strap and merited spending half of what it cost me originally on a custom leather strap. A good watch is a good watch regardless of price and an EcoDrive more than qualifies! Keep saving (or, in my case, inheriting as older family members pass away) and always buy what YOU enjoy!
@Chidori457Fantastic idea! But the story of my family gets even weirder! First, as alluded to, I inherited all the high-end watches I have. Most I've ever paid for a watch is 1,100 for my Bulova Breton. So it would be a real "Cinderella" story! Second, we actually have a freaking hospital named after us - Touchette Regional Hospital in Centreville, Illinois! Someone on my dad's side 3 or 4 generations back did something and now we have a hospital names after us! No idea what he/she did to merit such an honor. From what I've heard, they probably do really solid business in stab wounds and drug overdoses. REALLY "nice" neighborhood. Not exactly Takahashi material, if you'll pardon an "Initial D" reference.
@Chidori457 Now I just need to live a life that justifies it!
I got the SRPD77 "Avocado" a week ago, it's such an awesome thing in green, with the dial and orange second. Since setting it when bought it lost 4 seconds and 100m is more than I'll ever need or use.
The weakest part about it are the straps (the 'feel' if not the quality) if you're buying it on a NATO, but that is easily corrected by a separate purchase from any other source you trust. But otherwise exceptional watch.
Well done to you for making a video like this for the more financially challenged. Watched quite a few of your luxury watch video's with envy for Omega and Rolex watches. Have an SRPD and an Alpinist that i love.
I've been a Seiko fan and owner for more than 40 years, Rolex for nearly as long but while the latter ones have spent the best part of their lifes in a safe somewhere I've been wearing my 1st gen. orange Monster all over the planet for the better part of the last 16 years.
I only got it serviced once, about 10 years ago by a friend who has worked for Rolex and the 7S26 within just keeps ticking amazingly accurately - gaining about +5s daily - and it's still a joy to behold.
Nice one.. Except don't think caseback is sapphire
the issue with this watch is not that it lost DIVER's specs. It is what you get for the big increase in price... and this compared to the SKX series.
Wow !!! Never thought I would see Seiko here. Yes I know Grand Seiko has been here many many times, but never thought Seiko. Which is great by the way !! 👍🏼👍🏼
There were at least 2 Seiko video before this.
There was a seiko cocktail time I think in the past
Just bought a Marloe R34 and yes it’s a micro brand but the movement under the hood is the caliber NE88a and it’s 100 M waterproof. Oh yes it’s got a nice back as well. Perhaps you should visit Marloe the live in Perth Scotland.
Beautifully shot as always.
"Couldn't give a flying fancy" - spot on ;)
last week i pulled the trigger and got one of these from my local kohls it was $350. with an automatic 10% off then with the application for a line of store credit another 10% if denied but 25% if application was accepted and it was so i paid $137.00 for mine, a basic black with a rubber strap i immediately replaced with a black and ivory barton nato strap, needless to say it is a perfect match.its a great little watch and with any luck its value will just grow
A fine watch, to be sure. But for me the Orient Ray 2 / Mako 2 are such a more compelling offering.
I have the SKX, a Seiko SRPD51K2 and totally agree with you on the Orient line of watches. I have a big wrist so have the orange bezel Mako XL at 44.5mm. It's an old model with the non hacking/winding movement, just like the SKX, but it's one of my absolute favourite watches. It's nice to have the hand winding and hacking on the new Seiko 5 anyway.
Blew my mind seeing this today. I’ve owned one of these for about a year and daily worn it, it’s great
He has actually convinced me to get this instead of an apple watch 😮
I have two SRPD watches and they are excellent. Super comfortable on the wrist and the wide variety of colors and styles make it a great watch to match to a lot of outfits. I get it, the SKX was an awesome watch and more of a true diver, but never ever have I gone diving with a watch on and I never will. 100 meters of water resistance is PLENTY and the hand winding is much nicer than shaking my watch around to get it start up.
Those macro shots make every watch seem premium
File this one under, "things I never thought I'd see on this channel".
Bravo.
I managed to get the limited edition Honeycomb Seiko. Love it!
Same here. Beautiful piece. Cheers mate.
This line of product brought me into the watch world in 8/2021!
I bought the green srpd, changed the hardlex for sapphire and if I keep it as my only watch could be enought.
Nice! Did you change the crystal yourself or did a watch site do it? Thanks!
@@Tennisfiles I took it to service
Started with an SRPD.. now have a Tudor 58 on my wrist and a chrono on the way. This watch is a gateway drug.
Amazing they managed to find one where everything lines up 🙂
My friend has a Seiko and his is perfect in every detail
Mine SKX too...Perfect!
Bought the very same £216..arrived yesterday. Absolutely beautiful...all aligns and keeping good time. Will nestle next to the 007 and 009.
This guy could make Nico Leonard buy a Hubolt!!
Now, that would an achievement!👍👍🤣🤣🤣
Doubt😂😂
underrated comment!
A *suggestion*-pls show a snippet of any watch you refer to in a video.🙏🏻
Now I've to go & see what the SKX looks like & keep this SRPD in mind to compare.
I ended up buying this watch and I gotta say, I love it! The mesh bracelet is great, looks amazing and the clear caseback makes it fun to look at. Have had it for some months now and will definitely be keeping it for a long time! Thanks for recommending a truly affordable watch for us plebs!
Can u share model number and colour of dial please
Thank you....
Thanks for Seiko for giving a chance for people like me who are on a budget to have an entry into the world of automatics...
Thanks for this. This is a really different perspective on the Seiko 5 KX than what I normally see on watch UA-cam, which is almost universally hatred. I don't own one. I probably never will. But I do appreciate that you point out that making watches visually appealing and stylish is very important. And even know I like my classic Seiko diver's visually speaking, I also understand that I'm not most people.
Straight after seeing this I went out and bought one. Great for everyday wear.