Baby Grand Seiko Battle- SARB v SDGM v SARX
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- Опубліковано 6 лют 2025
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/ brucewilliams
This is a fun casual look at 3 similar JDM Seiko dress watches. I hope you find it enlightening and enjoyable. A big thanks to my 2 friends who loaned their personal watches for this video. Cheers guys!
For Reference:
SARB033 38.25mm D. 44.75mm L2L 11.8mm H.
SDGM001 40.5mm D. 48.6mm L2L 11.8mm H.
SARX033 41.25mm D. 46.2mm L2L 11.9mm H.
Watching this video many yrs later and checking the Grand Seiko and after all the purchases I’ve made since has made me want to unload a few and pick out a nice Grand Seiko for myself. Thanks BW ! The library of videos are on point.
This was an awesome review, you went in depth in a way that few channels accomplish. Nice job!
Thanks, that is a kind comment!
@jmcrofts damn, jm on a watch review video? Literally just watched your latest dragonball video an hour ago.
Did you end up buying one of these?
Thank you so much for this post. This is quite possibly the best watch video I have ever seen on UA-cam. And I have seen so many now that I've forgotten most of them I won't be forgetting this one in a hurry though. Thanks.
Wow, that's really nice to hear. Thank you!
A great review and comparison, really enjoyed seeing all three together.
I have the SDGM003 and it's still my favourite of the three, I'm a sucker for that dial.
Congratulations on hitting 2000+, well deserved.
Its true. The dial is so attractive. I like how subtle it is on the 003. Cheers :)
Sdgm003 super slick! You are so lucky to have one.
I'd have to go with the white dial SARX033. I like the sleek dial tones and the simplistic, yet elegant hands. The slight blue color of the hands really sells me.
Thanks. This was an excellent comparison explaining differences, strengths, etc.
Great insight. Love that your reviews don't get too long winded. Man I wish the SARX was a 38mm or that the SARB had no lume, AR and the level of finishing of the others. I'm so conflicted. The SARB is perfection in terms of proportions right down to the length of the indices.
SARX in 38-39mm would be an ultimate dress watch for the money , Great detail reviews as always brother !
Thanks Dylan I appreciate that
That's precisely why I got rid of my SDGM. My other watches are a Nomos 36mm AHOI, a SARB033, a SARB017 Alpinist, some Archimede and Muhle, and I've come to the conclusion that SARB033/035 are just nicer watches than the SARX / SDGM's.
I've worn a Snowflake, and I keep returning to the SARB. And my Nomos, which is similarly sized.
40+ mm for a dressy watch is too large. This is why a snowflake also doesn't do it. The 37mm GS's are better.
excellent review, my personal favorite is the SARX, it's hands are more balanced compared to the Grand Coctail who's hands are too short in my opinion, also the case on the SARX reminds me of the 62GS which is my personal favorite GS ever made
Yes, the dauphine shaped hands work extremely well, I agree with you. The 62 is a classic!
Great review. I own the SARB033, but completely fell in love with the new SARX033. Seiko did an amazing job with their new SARX line. Someday I want to get a GS snowflake, which is absolutely stunning, but until this day the sarx033 might be a great surrogate. Your video is like a drug for Seiko fans :)
Happy to find this video. Bought the SARX033 yesterday. The white dial and blue hands look perfect to me. For $220 more than a SARB I couldn't be happier. The SARB lume put me off. Thank you for the review
I have the Sarb 33 black , gotta say amazing quality and flawless finish , as good even maybe better than my Rolex Air King (2016) or Rolex GMT 2 in terms of finish and the movement is a peach . All this for under £300 imported from internet supplier .
If watches were not such an addiction and a constant battle of restraint with us" watch guys" pocket books I would honestly say the Sarb 33 is the only watch anyone would ever need in their entire life ......if it wasn't for the choice of other great watches out there !!!
( currently have about 12 in my collection )
great channel very informative and concise watch reviews without rambling on and repeating yourself your watch reviews are just right for the average watch enthusiast like me that has some knowledge but wants other views opinions and information to increase our understanding ..keep up the good work
Thanks very kind of you to say. Congrats on your collection! Yes, I'm just your average watch enthusiast. I figure, if I have the watch might as well put up a video. I know I enjoy watching model specific content when I'm considering a purchase. Cheers!
i decided to pick up 033 and i am absolutely satisfied. this is my third Seiko.
rando tooming i still can’t decide between the 033 and the 035 it’s such a close call
rando tooming definitely the best option for the money though if anyone was to upgrade from either the 033 or the 035 it would have to be a grand seiko for a noticeable difference only drawback on the SARB models is the bracelet but that can easily be changed so it’s a pretty perfect watch in my opinion
Excellent review of some beautiful Seiko domestic models! I'm new to the brand having stuck with Swiss brands historically, but am slowly coming over. TGV is a big Seiko fan and intrigued me, but your comparisons are very helpful! Thank you! That Grand Seiko is ridiculously gorgeous!
I had a GS Sbdg001 a while back. It was a 41mm with the champagne dial. The most comfortable watch I had ever owned. I loved it but I realized how much i really wanted it to have lume so i eventually sold it. I picked up a sarb035 recently to have as a dress watch not really thinking I would wear it and I am blown away at the quality of it. Reminds me so much of my grand seiko. No the lume on the SARB is not enough to go diving with but it’s enough to tell the time in a dimly lit house or when it gets dark early, or I find myself in a dark room, I can always tell the time. I’m one if the few who wish more dress watches had lume so being they’re hard to find, the SARB is my new favorite.
I blame it on you. I've just bought SDGM001 on Ebay. I could not resist it :) I like everything about that watch, even the onyx and the font of automatic, which goes so well with the Seiko logo.
I'm a bad influence haha!
I really like your channel, you speak really nice and everything is so informative and exudes your true love to the watches you review.
+Svetoslav Popov wow, that was very kind. Much appreciated friend 👍
Thanks for the great review. I was able to find a SDGM001 from Japan. It is as gorgeous as you said. The case design, cocktail dial, diashield, quality bracelet and the impeccable indices make it a true baby GS. It love it more than my Rolex!!
Great comparison, thanks a lot. My SARX035 is in the mail and I´m so excited, it´s ridiculous. The 035 is everything I want from a black dresswatch. I never noticed the bracelet is different. Now, to me, the SARX is even more harmonious. THe SDGM003 is a truely unique piece, but it´s too special for everyday use, for me at least.
I'm excited for you! You should post a video showing off its beauty. I don't think there is one yet
To be fair, the SARB you are reviewing is black, so it will naturally reflect more than a white watch, even with the best of crystals. I have his white/cream brother, and I never had any issues with the reflection. By the way, I am 6ft2 with small wrist so the SARB fits nicely under any shirt cuff.
I know the other two are better, but I don't want anyone to be scared of buying a white SARB because of the reflection or size.
Thanx for the video, by the way. Really helpful!
I just bought the SARX033 yesterday. I loved it because I wanted stainless, display case back, date function, and dial simplicity. (It was also in my price range at just under $1000.) But what clinched it for me was the blue hands. Just a gorgeous shade of blue that looks great with the simplicity and elegance of the white face. I don’t really care for the “busy-ness” of dive watches and I can’t wait for mine to be delivered.
After seeing these 3 watches and comparing to my GS high beat, I find a lot of the same design and features. Its really like a honda and a lexus. One is a bargain and the other is pretty much a luxury bargain where they keep things similar but raise the quality and craftsmanship.
That's a great comment. Nice to hear a GS owners perspective. Cheers
I like the sarx but for as often as I wear a dress watch I will be keeping my sarb033. That Grand Seiko spring drive gmt on the other hand.... Great video Bruce!
Haha I know what you mean. I dress up once a week max. Even then I still need a GS too 👍👍
I have the Sary057 black dial and it is an awesome piece. Slightly larger than a Sarb at 41.5, but great value for the money ($270 on amazon, $318 on SeiyaJapan). Has a slightly sportier look than the Sarb imo, and doesn’t have loom. Definitely worth considering.
Absolutely magnificent review! I've been looking for a black SDGM (003), but unfortunately they're discontinued. I might have to settle for something else... the SARX seems like a good alternative. Thank you very much for making this video! Very well executed!!
I know this is a bit older now, but a great review none the less. I just ordered the Seiko Presage SARD011 with the Urushi Dial and i am super stoked to get this. I want to add another Seiko JDM so this vid was really helpful. Was leaning toward the SARB but now i'm leaning toward the SARX line after this review.
Thanks for the review. Your side-by-side comparison of the three alternatives gave me the best perspective for making my choice. I bought the SARB035 because it is the best all around choice for me. Price was not an issue. The others have some better features - nicer face, finish, bracelet, and AR crystal. However, the SARB035 has the most appealing shape, is the best size for my 6.33 inch wrist, and also has the 6R15 movement. I received it today and I am amazed at the value for the price. This is a very classy watch.
Great choice!!
Nicely done! I'm waiting for your Grand Seiko battle.
I’m going for the SARX awesome review and exactly what I was looking for. Great video
I just picked up the sarb 033 and it blew me away the moment I opened the box
I´m thinking about buying one too, can you tell me more about it?
@@pedromonteiro2644 it could be a one watch collection, dressy, businessy, and casual enough to dress down, has a solid feel, good finishing, good bracelet, sleek dial, a little flashy, good movement with display back, I just picked up the sarb 035 too
@@pedromonteiro2644 how you got it while you could ?
@@Nofold3 since the prices have gone way up I picked up a Khaki King instead
@@pedromonteiro2644 yea i got lucky and got one in march for 380 on amazon
great video for me... it really helped me decided between the sdg and the Sarx. I went with the Sarx033 I think it's a great watch for the price. I also picked up the 2 sary version of the presage line and to be honest once you get past the bracelets they are good looking watched for the buck. would of gotten a sarb but that 38mm just seems a little small for me. thanks again.
Colby Strang i heard the sary055/57 bracelets are very good quality but have the cheap clasp. Is this true? Also would u recommend the sary057 model for a daily wearer?
This is the video I have been waiting for in my life. After much deliberation I am going for the SARB... I absolutely love the SDGM cocktail time-esque dial, but that doesn't justify the price for me (I will get a Blue Moonlight cocktail or an Alpinist + SARB for the price of the SDGM). In any case, I would replace the case with an aftermarket beads of rice bracelet (like those on Omega Deville's)
Excellent review! I really like the Brightz line(SDGM). After I bought my SARB033, I began to look for a more dressy watch for special occasions. My first option was the SARB065 "Cocktail Time", (I don´t remember if you have reviewed that one). Well that was until I checked your review of the black Brightz (SDGM003), which is a great improvement over the SARB033. Now that I see the SDGM001 in that champagne dial, and have a new target watch! So classy. The only thing is that I am afraid I would be to big for my skinny 6 and half inch wrist. So many choices! Thanks a lot for the review.
Your very welcome. I've not reviewed the cocktail time. I like it but I'm a sucker for bracelets and that one doesn't have one. It's also a little tall for my tastes so I likely won't ever buy one. Beautiful though!
Great Comparison. I'm aiming for SARX for Dress Watch.
Hazman Noor SARX is my favorite of the three
Excellent review. I just bought the SARB035 and really like it, but if I had seen this review beforehand, I probably would have gotten the SARX even though it costs over twice as much. The fact that you showed and explained how it fit due to the lug size was very well received. One thing I like about all the watches is the height of the cases. If I'm not mistaken they're all under 12mm which makes for a comfortable fit under a shirt cuff.
Yes, they are all under 12. I've worn them under cuffs in the past. Spot on comment. Cheers :)
Just bought the SARB in off white dial and LOVE it!! I looked longingly at the Brightz but it was out of my price range for now. Maybe next year. Great video and overview of these wonderful watches!
Thanks John, congrats on your new sarb!
Just stumbled upon this video. Great comparison of baby Grands. Oddly enough, I have the SARB033 and SARX033 on my wish list. I better pick up the SARB now before it's completely discontinued and grab a couple straps for it. I think the SARB is a perfect balance of sport and dress watch, just depends what strap is worn with it.
Once again a great video. I've been looking at the SARB and this video just confirmed my desire. What is lacking in "dressy' appearance to the other two is precisely why I want it. I want to be able to wear a nice casual watch and be able to take a dip in the water if the opportunity presents itself. I think the SARB fits the bill. Thanks Bruce.
Sounds like it would be a great fit for you! I don't think I ever swam with mine but I would be afraid to. I defiantly ran it under the tap and shower many times
I don't plan to swim with it. But I hang out at the beach a lot. I'm thinking a cool off dip wouldn't hurt it.
+Miamis4me I just noticed my typo. I tried to type- 'wouldn't' not would haha. Yeah a little dip in the ocean wouldn't hurt at all
The 033/35 still have the best case design. I just wish it was larger at 40mm. The size, the clasp gap, and the lack of the micro adjustment/half links are the only things I would have changed, and that would make it almost a perfect watch.
Got the SARX033 three months ago. Wore it with a blue NATO, a black NATO, a brown leather, a brown leather with white stitches, a brown crocodile, and now a black leather. It looks beautiful on every strap.
Was thinking of getting a Hamilton Khaki next, but after trying it on my wrist, it didn't quite match the feel-good factor of the SARX. The 2824 movement looks more expensive than the 6R15, but that's about it. Maybe I'm just spoilt by the sheer beauty of the SARX.
Maybe if I do decide to buy a tool watch, I'll get the Hamilton. For now the SARX is more than enough. Quite impressed with Seiko, and feel it's worth every penny.
I'd certainly go for the sarx033, simply gorgeous.
bought the sarx033 in japan today.
Excellent congrats!
And now the new white Cocktail time with blued hands and that sunray dial combines the SARX and SDGM design cues.
Great vid
Well paced, you come off as a genuine, nice guy.
Appreciate that
Got the Brightz last year (003). The thing does away with my Omegas and Longines. Fantastic watch. Great to see a comparison. One point, I'd say the font and the Onyx give it that 80s feel which is exactly what Seiko were going for i think.
That's an awesome comment. Congrats on your 003!
What a great review, very thorough and awesome detail. Definitely like the SDGM003 best!
Thanks David, very kind of you to say
You have one of my favorite watch channels. You make great points and review watches that are relevant to me and my tiny budget lol. Plus your presentation is very well done. Thanks!
Your welcome. Its fun to do :)
Excellent review...thank you! I have both the SARB 33 and the 35. Great watches. The SARX looks interesting, however it screams for silver hands....not black (or what appears to be dark blue in the video).
Personally I like the fact it has dark hands, it contrasts the bright face and bracelet nicely and makes it very versatile to change straps!
I like that SARX line. But I want that SDGM face. Well, I mean I like them all in one way or another. And thank you for doing a comparison video because I am new to watches and have been struggling a little figuring out the differences. All I knew was that the SARB wasn't as good, but I thought one of these had the 4r series movement. Happy I found this.
First of all, great review mate...!
Must admit I own a lot of Seiko divers and was looking for a dress watch alternative within the Seiko lines.
Finally bought the SARB035 mainly because of the lume... ;-)
I completely agree with ya that lume isn't that important especially for a dress watch, but I wear my watch even when I sleep so it's always handy when you woke up in the middle of the night or you're in a dark environment to be able to read time.
As always Seiko offers at all price range the best quality for the money, case finishing is simply splendid, movements are robust and very reliable, and lume is the BEST on the market.
Was wondering to go for a SARX055 as a second dress watch, but still not 100 % sure, even if I simply love this watch...!
SDGM is also very nice with that cocktail dial finishing that's simply splendid and it's thinner that the real Seiko cocktail watches.
Oh those blued hands give me goosebumps.
They look so good
I recently bought a SARB035, and it is wonderful. My boss's old Rolex Datejust (the old skinny one) seriously does not look as good (although any current Datejust would blow the Seiko out of the water).
It is seriously an amazing watch for $350.
Thats awesome Garry. I'm glad your enjoying it. It is pretty crazy how much watch you get for the money. I do love a nice DJ, even the old oysterquartz from the 80s
Bruce Williams My boss's is an OLD one (definitely thinner than 36 mm). The 1980's datejust's are awesome. This might be a pre-DJ, but I do not know. It is clean, but it was so small. I would guess like 31 or 32 mm.
For sure. they used to be very small. Its funny to see what the acceptable size for a mans watch had been and how its changed over the years
Not personally a big fan of the SDGM. I honestly prefer the SARB065 in look for the face. That SARX though...wow! Last stop before a Grand Seiko! 😊
With regard to the sarb; A dress watch does not need to be automatic. Nor should it have a date function. Even a second hand is unnecessary. It is meant for 'dress'. Ideally, it should also be hand wind to facilitate a slimmer can. Also, it is worn infrequently, perhaps for an evening out. This watch is not a dress watch. It has 100meter water resistance. This sarb is an everyday watch. I own this watch. I have swum and showered in this watch, worn it every day. It is a fab everyday smart watch
I never understand why the SARX models are not more popular. I love them. I had all of these, and sold them on. I only miss the Brightz cream cocktail.
I do have a modern SARX Sharp Edge and wear it a lot. With the silly high prices for the SARB models, I have no idea why anyone would pay more for a SARB than for a SARX. It is madness.
I have the SARB035 and the SDGM003 and I had the white and black SARX in my hands. The SDGM003 is my favorite with it's subtle black sunburst dial and high quality finish. It does wear a little big for a dress watch... but to me it's more a sports watch competing against the Omega Aqua Terra. I was actually like 30 seconds from buying a Aqua Terra when I got the SDGM003 in my hands and fall in love with it.
The SARX is a very nice watch, but I do miss the magic and modern style from the SDGM dial and indices.
It's my first automatic watch and I picked the 033. Can't wait for the delivery!
Bacho Pacho good choice!
sarb033 not 350 anymore :) happy i got one when i had the chance!
Great review! It's helped me appreciate each more and form a better buying decision.
What's frustrating is that all three of these watches are great but each get buoyed or weighed down by an aspect or two. I think the SARB (imo) nails the most aspects with the least drawbacks. As I value function, the lume is a bonus, it nails the font, the sewing needle-like second hand is a unique little quirk, it has a signed crown, and the finish on the case is similar to the others. Moreover, I think the dimensions are ideal for the average person, while the SDGM and SARX are tending towards being a bit too large.
It's a shame about the anti-reflective coating, and as for the bracelet, I think that can be swapped out for a leather bracelet or a NATO strap if you want to be dressy or casual. If only the sunburst dial of the SDGM (barring that plain font) featured on the SARB035... but in the end, it's in the eye of the beholder.
Great review. Seiko SARX035 first and STGM003 "brights" second for me. Not sure I want to spend $6-750 for them when there will be a GS down the road... :)
Save for what you really want, they say...
Can't wait for the GS GMT detailed review. Keep up the great work my friend.
That is the dilemma! Get one of these amazing beauties or be patient and save for the GS. You said it right though- get what you really want. I'm planning on having a detailed review up by early next week. Don't want to rush this one haha
Didn't notice the font on the sdgm until you mentioned it. Now it's all I see and I can't stand it. Glad I haven't made my buying decision yet
If you love the cocktail dial but only have limited budget go get SARB065. It got the same price as SARB033 but with beautiful dial.
Personally I'd get a sarb035 with the SARX bracelet. I'm good with the lume and I think this combination could do pretty well with a lot of people
I like your thinking. I was thinking about getting the Sarb033 with the SARX bracelet. I like the 38 mm size of the Sarb033.
I'd be curious to see if they are compatible. They have the same width but the diameters of the case are pretty different
Did anyone ever find out if you are able to fit a sarx bracelet to the sarb. I could even live with a retrofit clasp only, any ideas, info? great vid as usual Sir.
I got a Sarx035 bracelet on my sarb035. It did not want to fit exactly but dome struggling and it was on.
Tyler how does it look? Can you please post link to pic of the watch? The SARB bracelet is the only part making me wanting to sell it
Who else is watching this on the sarb?
Thank you great review. I went with the SARB 035, can't be beat for the money.
You are right. Unbeatable for the price!
Agreed. You simply can't find the quality and style of the SARB035 for the money anywhere.
Same here. Got the 035 just recently. Unbelievable value for the money!
The SARX033, you mentioned you got it for $770. Everywhere I see it the cost is far higher. Where can one find the SARX033
+Garry Perkins apparently prices have jumped since I reviewed it. I got mine from seiyajapan.com
Nice to see them side by side. Brightz for me because of the dial.
That sunburst dial looks awesome.
If the SARB at 38mm is too small for your liking and you don't want to double-down for the SDGM or the SARX, the SARY055/057 is a good alternative. I believe its 40 or 41mm case and slightly cheaper than the SARB, slightly cheaper movement.
Yes, that one is a great option, I mention it in the video
Thanks for the great review. Can tell you like doing that.
I already have a SARB033 and just ordered a SARX035.
Thanks, I'm excited for you. The 35 looks so good!
Had a sarb033 sold it to buy the Brightz with that dial, the drilled lugs...the bracelet....love the longer lugs on the brightz just think they balance the larger case better than the stuby ones on sarx. For me the brightz won good review👍
Excellent presentation.... I really love that dial face on that SDGM....But bottom line is all three are worth owning!
It'll personally be the SDGM for me. I do own the Sarb033, but totally agree with you, the SDGM is GORGEOUS...And man, that bracelet is such a big upgrade. Really enjoyed the video, thank you :)
Your very welcome, glad you enjoyed it
Bruce Williams I put a black crocodile band on the sdgm 001...simply amazing.
Nice! I just ordered the SARX033. 👍
SDGM003 is definitely my favorite and I need it, if I can find one
Cool vid. Been looking for a comparison video side by side. Got a SARB033 two days ago. What should is say. I wish I have seen your video prior of purchasing my SARB. Somehow I do like the SARX033 in white a lot more. I could still return the SARB... Decisions decisions...
lol Seiko makes it tough on us Will
+Bruce Williams certainly, where did you get the sarx033? It seems to be a hot item and hard to find.
+Will Mader from seiyajapan.com I've bought from him several times and like the service and at fair prices
I've watched this video 4 times in the past few months. These watches are gOOOOORgeous. That SDGM001 man! I think it's a bit big for me, which is a real shame, especially since bright dials wear large.
What I like about the SARB is the versatility. You can dress it up or down easy. I think the SDGM, in particular, would look silly with anything other than a dress shirt.
Absolutely a great video! Thanks. Very helpful, and imo spot on analysis. I think I will go for the SARX, although I'm still a bit worried about the size and unfortunately I'm not able to try any of them since they are not being sold in the Netherlands. Thanks again.
I feel your pain. Since they are Japanese Market models you pretty much have to buy sight unseen
Don't worry about it too much.......first world problems! I'll survive ;)
thx for this upload. All 3 are beauties no doubt. My pick would be the black dailed SARX but love the caseshape of the brightz more.
In the end i will save up and buy a GS for sure. Thinking off the SBGV007 because that thing is a beauty😎. Cheers Bruce and i am looking forward to your next upload.
I hear you! I think I am leaning most toward the sbgv005 :) currently. I just might go quartz when its my turn. Next upload should be the spring drive gmt review
+Bruce Williams 005 is also a very attractive watch and with a quartz movement that is unbelievable accurate. 5 seconds per year is just stunning😎
Yeah one of the things I really like is apart from a battery change every 3 years and a gasket check every 5... NO SERVICING COSTS :D
thankyou for the reviews and all the work you put into these-the education has been a big help to all of us,,
Great comparison between three great Seiko watches! I own the SARB033 and was already looking for a SARX035. But I think it's too much overlapse because I also prefer the version with the black dial on this one. But after your video it's hard to withstand...
haha Seiko really knows how to get us to part with our money. I prefer the black dial slightly myself
Hi Bruce, great video. I have the SARB but it's a little bit small for my wrist and taste. Love the classic look of Seiko, and the GS is a holy grail, but until then, the SARX is a valid, beautiful consolation. However, the SDGM is growing on me... I don't know yet.
Thanks Antonio haha I hear you. Its a tough choice. I've decided on saving for the holy grail myself
Nice review, thank you. I have the Sarb, which I love, but agree with your comments. I also find the crystal seems to smear too readily. My next Seiko?....the Sarx.....I love those blued hands. Cheers!
Cheers Jean-Paul!
I love the SARX, but I am afraid 40mm face will be too big for my 6 inch wrist. The 38mm SARB will better fit. Do you think it will be too big?
Great review. Does anyone else agree that since Seiko added the word Presage to the dial instead of just Automatic, the design looks worse or cheaper? I really don’t like or want Presage written on the dial & this has reduced my purchasing of Seiko watches. I have to revert to the older models before the word Presage was added. A real disappointment for me.
I love all three watches but I can't believe you're getting a bracelet with pins at this price point, especially the newest one.
Great review! Unfortunately marred by showing us a Grand Seiko at the end! That watch is in another league! Wow!
Haha I guess you just cant beat the magic of a GS
For a really low cost alternative, try the Seiko 5 model SNKL41. A beautiful watch that I bought recently for just £53 on eBay.
Yes I own it. It's an incredible watch for the price.
Nice comparison video, Bruce! I'd have to say that the SDGM looks the closest to a.Grand Seiko with its champagne coloured dial, classic looking minute and hours hands, and the blued seconds hand, but the SARB and the SARX also have some GS DNA in their blood. I have the light dialled SARB035 and really love it, but like you, I'd also love to have the dark dialled SARX.
Thanks, I know what you mean. Also, I like your grand Seiko medallion profile pic!
+Bruce Williams haha thanks! The profile pic is to remind me of my ultimate Grail but in general I'm just a run of the mill Seikoholic! Twelve of them in my collection so far...and still counting! Maybe I'll call it quits once I have a GS on my wrist! Maybe. 😉
lol! Your in good company around here
I recently bought a SARB033,and in terms of overall appearance, it is arguably the most beautiful watch I have owned, and that includes the big names. I think Rolex et al could learn a thing or two about case design from the Japanese masters.
Sarb035 for me, as I prefer the handset and needle seconds hand, to me this looks like the most expensive handset.
Although I do like the SDGM001 for its dial colour and texture. I think off-white, champagne dials for dress watches look best for something different. Darker dials for diver watches in the collection.
I had a SARB for a while and really enjoyed it but all the gaps in the bracelet and clasp started to bother me so I sold it. Now I'm starting to miss it's classic seiko good looks and am wondering if the SARX might be for me but the 41mm gives me pause for my 6.75" wrist. I own other smaller vintage inspired sport watches (Speedbird 3) so maybe a modern sized dress watch would fit in my collection and I would come to enjoy it's size. Wish I could try one on.
Great vid! I thought the sarx and sdgm bracelets were the same, but good job pointing out the difference.
Yeah I did too initially when I unboxed the sarx. Only until I saw them side by side did I realize the slightly difference porportions. Cheers Robert
I like the SARX. I do think the white dial SARX would look great with plain hands instead of being blue. I would go with the black dial SARX as well. Although, since I'm not really big into dress watches, I'll just wait for the GS Spring Drive GMT!! Great review by the way!
Thanks Jeremy, couldn't have done it without you. Cheers :)
It was great!
What about the Seiko SZSB011? It's a very nice watch for a budget.
The back of the second hand on the sarb, that diamond shape... they should add it to more watches.
I prefer the middle one over the other two in every way, except that diamond shape... it's such a pity it doesn't have that... would make it the perfect seiko watch under 1k...
Hi Bruce... thats a very great review.. I'm looking for seiko with black dial, still confuse choosing between sarx035 & sdgm003. In your opinion, which one better?
problem is 033 sarb is a 38mm, if that is something one is looking into for size.
can't beat that for the money either. i was told many have +7 per day, not bad at all. many of the more expensive seiko's in this video many times will have the same movement, that i have an issue with.
Seiko are really good at what they do. I agree with most of what you say so well done on this review and for me I prefer the black face to it seems to stand out that bit more. Cheers
Thanks Richard, my preference is the black as well
Very nice review, thanks. Well done.
Great video Bruce. I'm considering a SARB035 myself.
Best regards,
Fabio.
Thanks Fabio, appreciate that
Thank you bruce ......you make me buy watches ....Very good review ,I bought the sarx 035
I am totally in love with my Sarx035 black dial. Just to look at it makes me smile. Maybe I an crazy.
You're not. I have it as well and although I had and still have plenty of watches, it's probably the most beautiful watch ever in my opinion.
I like how the polished center links on the sarx bracelet match the indices. I agree with you and would choose the sarx of the 3.
I would probably go for the white porcelain dial because I have too many black dial watches. If I didn't have a black dial I would definitely choose it as my favorite as you have. The black dial has an elegance like a glossy black grand piano if that makes sense.
That sarb is so good for the money. I have a nice Seiko 5 that is even cheaper and still feels quality but it shows it's limitations with the movement, crystal and bracelet but I am ok with that.
I also like lume on a dress watch for some strange reason, probably because it is Seiko lume. I would put the sarb on a nice black deployant leather strap and it would be tough to beat.
All bets are off when you get to Grand Seiko, it is in another league.
The bracelet has some great symmetry with the dial- that's a great point Sean. I guess quite a lot of people put the sarb on leather. Which I'm sure just improves the feel. Seiya sells a Seiko branded leather with a metal deployant that looks like it matches the case very well. Cheers!