Since this is my first comparison video, let me know what you think of the format. Do you prefer an analytical approach? Or just show the watches and give you an opinion? Thanks!
First, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Now I've been putting off doing a comparison video, because often times they can be so subjective based on the creators personal bias. So I've tried to minimize my own by taking a more analytical approach. But even then you can't always escape bias. Especially when it comes to things like design and value. But I think that's OK, as we all have different tastes and needs. So I think in many ways, comparison reviews are better for starting conversations then anything else. So in what way do you disagree?
I like the approach. Everyone has their own opinions, but I appreciate that, it's always great to hear other people's opinions on watches and consider things from angles I hadn't thought of. I think this approach was pretty fair, and an interesting comparison, I hadn't ever considered the Amphibia and the SNK to be competitors, but both being automatics in the same price range, it makes sense. I think you made an interesting point at the end about collectors sort of "growing out" of the SNK as their collection expands. On the flip side, I think the Vostok is such a unique and acquired taste, I can see new collectors buying one and then later finding that it's not for them and then also not wind up wearing it very often.
Since the comparison you do is your opinion, I think any method you like to use to justify your opinion is great. Theoretically, comparisons should always be point-counterpoint, but it really doesn't matter in this case. I have a Vostok Amphibia. I wear it a lot. Especially when I need a beater watch. It keeps marginal time, but it's adequate for its use. I also have a Seiko Turtle (SRP). I love my Turtle in every way. I think the most reasonable comparison would be the Vostok Amphibia versus the Seiko SKX. They are both entry-level dive watches. The Amphibia would beat the tar out of the SKX. But maybe not using your criteria. I mean let's be honest. The Amphibia is chromed pot metal.
If I ever get an SKX I will. Although there are a few skx vs amphibia comparisons already. Instead of an SKX, I deiced to be different and got a blue Citizen Promaster NY0040. Love that watch, espcialy after I put it on a shark metal bracelet. I've thought about comparing the two, but since the Promaster is now discontinued I'm not sure if there would be as much interest. Pot metal is a little harsh, but probably not to far off. :)
Vostok is rated 200m, yet it will dive to 750m no problem. The acrylic dome can be polished with polywatch. If you don't like quirky dials, vostok also comes with conservative classic dials or just change the dial to something you like. You can wind a vostok as hard and rough as you want. It will not break thanks to the wobbly crown. My vostok has been running for 15 years without service. It's around +-20 sec. Vostok looks vintage and looks great on a nato. Mine got an aftermarket bezel that makes it look a lot more expensive than it is.
Vostok for me. Quirkiness, bezel, and much more interesting. I actually like the band in mine because it is cheap and I don’t worry about scratching it up.
I may have been too harsh on the bracelet. Someone pointed out, that the vostok I got has the older bracelet. I got a an automatic komandarskie a few days ago, and it came with a better bracelet. One with solid links. So my Amphibia may have been old stock. Thanks for watchin!
Vostok, of course. Mine has the 420 case like yours, and the coarser mesh bracelet - goes well with anything except maybe a tux. And there are inexpensive Vostok dress watches for that.
I'm extremely excited. About a week ago I received a SNX803 and today a Vostok Amphibia Ref: 420634. I'm in love with the Vostok big time. The Seiko, well, its ordinary. Like the weight, quality, materials and feel of it. But this Vostok, is such a nice piece. Just love it to death. It's my winner big time. Just me though.
neil piper Yes, the Seiko Day/Date is a bit sloppy (just like the skx in that regard and the older Seiko 7006 movement was worse). The Vostok is a bit of a bugger to set without a quicksetting ability. Thankfully though, it has that oversized crown to make it very comfortable to adjust .. Nothing is perfect eh ☺️ I do love the Amphibia though - flic.kr/p/24i7tww
I own several Vostoks, so I'm biased for sure but I'm forced to agree. If you wish to regulate your own watch and service them yourself the Vostok is fantastic to learn on. They offer many at under $30 so if you screw up no big deal. I've bought many Vostoks as the specific military issued watches are interesting and rich in history. Radio operator, tanker, paratrooper, and navy models are awesome. I've played with both automatic and standard movements and been able to regulate them to a +- 4or5 seconds. It's just a small lever on the balance. The Anphibia's unique gasket back and retaining ring are very innovative. The wobble crown is a great safety feature for novice watch enthusiasts that want to learn to service on their own. I love Seiko I have a SKX of course, I also don't own any watch over $500 so Vostok gives great selection without breaking the bank. $300 buys 4 or 5 cool styles. It's cool to go to a HAM radio field day and wear your radio operator's Vostok perfectly regulated. I usually sell quite a few that day as well. You're right the bracelets suck but they are made for durability and not style. They are vertically indistinguishable but ugly and jangly. I put them on a nice rubber or NATO strap. Innovation, history, durability and quirkiness make them the AK-47 of watches. I got one over 30 years old that had never been serviced still ran. I cleaned and oiled it got it regulated to +- 15 seconds. How cool is that? Biased Vostock nut.
830 Meters of Depth and also a Trip in the Space for 29 Days in 1975 and the fact that my Amphibia works in 36hrs exact 1 second + Makes the Amphibia to my Favorite!!! I set my Amphibia with the Atomic Watch. The date seting is a faster when you turn 24 Hrs and than over the 3P.M than back to 9 A.M repeat this step and you can Speed set the Date.
I have two Vostok Amphibia watches. Out of the box, each was accurate to just a couple seconds per day, and have remained so for the six months i have owned them. I also own the SNK805 olive drab Seiko (& 10 or so other Seiko & Seiko5 watches). The SNK805 was very inaccurate for the first few months with a power reserve of just a few hours. It has recently been enjoying a steady improvement in its performance but only to a barely acceptable level, making it the only watch i have ever owned that actually had to be broken in. I love most watches, but if I could only have one watch and had a very limited watch budget, i would opt for the Vostok Amphibia over the SNK8xx.
Pretty much how I feel. Although I've been much less lucky with the Accuracy of my Vostoks, but they aren't hard to regulate myself. Out of curiosity, whats your Ph.D in?
Very cool. My background is in Analytical Chemistry, although I did help out in a laser lab one semester in undergrad. It was so long ago, I'm not sure I remember exactly what we were doing. It was some sort of wave mixing technique for chemical analysis.
I’m really not sure that the this is fair comparison. Field watches and dive watches serve completely different purposes. A more balanced comparison would be a Vostok Komandirskie vs Seiko SNK805. Regardless, the lack of polish and refinement, in my humble opinion, is what makes the Vostok Amphibia more charming and gives it a little more character. It’s like comparing a Jeep wrangler to a Honda Civic. The Jeep isn’t as refined as a Civic, but the Civic will not perform that well in an all terrain environment. Great video with well articulated assessments of both watches, although the Vostok has a stainless steel case with a chrome coated brass bezel. Keep up the great videos!!
Thanks! I agree, there really is no perfect watch for every situation. Each one was made with a specific purpose in mind. And thats where its strengths lie. As for Komandirskie vs snk, funny you should mention that. I did this video a bit ago, and that was the most common comment. So I'm working on a part 2 that is Komandirskie vs snk805. Probably have it done in a couple weeks. I've had to go out of town to visit family. I originally didn't do that comparison, as I was looking more at price, and focusing on an automatic. And wasn't thinking dive vs field. But so many people have mentioned it, I might as well do a follow up. Cheers!
You have a good point. Like I said, I found it close. For me I was thinking, if you wanted another Vostok or Russian watch. There is always the Komandarski, which is usually cheaper. If you wanted another dive watch with 200m resistance, there are couple other options around the same price, or cheaper. Although none of those have the real world testing that the Amphibia does. Meanwhile if you wanted another Seiko, or Japanese Automatic. Thats it, nothing cheaper. And you get a movement that is used in watches that cost more. So for me, that gave the Seiko a slight advantage. But value is a very subjective and relative thing for each person. That said, I'm only keeping my Seiko SNK around to do a few more comparison videos with. While my Amphibia isn't going anywhere. And I'm waiting for a komandarski to arrive. Thanks for watching.
Wayne Riley It's a dive watch in the sense that it has crazy levels of water resistance. Here is a video of a Vostok Amphibia surviving 700M of water pressure. I would argue that it is perhaps the ONLY real dive watch under 200 dollars. ua-cam.com/video/s-YKyDkpXbc/v-deo.html
@@wayneriley7367 That doesn't really matter, it is a dive watch because it was developed by the Soviets to be used in their military specifically as a dive watch. The reason the Seiko wins is because it gives you reliable Japanese quality and assurance for a low price, while the Vostok retains its communist quality control standards.
I go for the Vostok Unique is a conversation piece.not many out there,especially if you are a collector.,the Seiko litter boring for my taste ,but excellent watch.
I love the uniqueness of the Vostok All my watches growing up were gifts. Timex and Pulsar. My first watch I bought myself and recently let go because of repair issues was a Bulova Astronaut. It looked like a 🛸 UFO on my wrist. The Russian watch is really cool looking.
Without having finished the video I can tell you my first two automatics were these two watches. Owning and loving both I can say without a doubt that the SNK is nicer for sure, but I love my Amphibia as a beater, even more than my G-Shock sometimes.
The SNK809 was my first automatic........a year or so later, I started collecting.....and Vostok quickly became one of my favorites. I currently have 4.
My vostok came with a very nice tropic style strap. I was pleasantly surprised that it came with something I will willingly wear because I had heard of the awful bracelets.
The Amphibia-type Vostok are actually the AK-47's of watchmaking. I have one from the late 70s (made for the former USSR) running at a precision of - 9 seconds a day since I bought it for about 3 years in Ukraine. Surprising at the cost price since for the USSR there was no difference between affordable and luxury watches.
@@RelativeTime I believe quality was better in the times of the USSR. At that time the Vostok company began to export watches to the West with the proposal to sell decent watches with quality near to the simplest Swiss models. They won awards at a Leipzig watchmaking International fair in the late 1970s.
Thank you for creating and posting this video! I thought the analytical approach was useful, especially as you made an effort to be unbiased in the comparison and, where you expressed an opinion, you made it clear that this was so. It was also an interesting comparison as, though I own two Vostoks and no SNK, before the video, I would have assumed that the Seiko would have trumped the Vostok in the comparison - the Vostok is such a quirky thing! I was surprised that the outcome was not as clear as I would have imagined, but I agreed with your evaluations. The only additional category that might have been added from my side would be “cult following”. There is an important fan club for the Amphibia that does not exist for the SNK, as far as I am aware. However, Seiko is incomparably a better respected overall make than Vostok. I will register onto your channel and will look forward to other videos. Thanks again.
Thanks for watching, and thanks for the well thought out comment. As I was saying this is my first comparison. so I was trying to come up with a good format to go forward with. I just replied to another comment, that I wanted to do it this way to minimize any personal bias. Yet still have a way to give a more personal opinion. So thanks for the great feedback. A "cult following" category might be interesting. A cult following doesn't necessarily make a watch better, but it does show that there is something about it that is special. I'll have to think about . Although that might factor in nicely within the uniqueness category as well. Again, thanks for watching!
Just got my first Vostok amphibia (green scuba dude dial, original red and blue dot bezel); coincidentally, also the first automatic I've purchased: so thanks for the inspiration, I'm diggin' it :)
@@johnrooney507 Best of luck, mine arrived in Australia a month to the day from ordering. Been keeping excellent time since then: I haven't officially checked it, but it's less than a minute fast over the last week or so.
@@pablomuslera9469 Can't beat the price so it's worth a shot. One video said to watch out for corrosion on the stem if you seriously use it in water, sweat etc, and should put sillicone grease on it.
Great vid, I am very much on the fence between these two. However I’m gonna have to go with the Vostok, personally. The durability, uniqueness, greater case size and variety of options for the Vostok are what prove greater value IMHO. And that’s coming from a seiko fan.
I'm with you, Marinus. I want both watches.Just beginning a real collection. I have maybe 20+. (haven't even really counted - just sort of bought them over time). I don't have Omega Speedmaster bucks, but I did just buy the Bulova Lunar pilot - $300 on EBay) Most of my buys will have to be under $200, so affordable pieces like the Vostok and the Seiko 5 are definitely on the wishlist.
Thank you for taking the time to create this thoughtful and articulate video. I am just getting into watches, and I'm sorely disappointed at the rising prices of the SNK's. Do other companies make comparable sub-$100 automatics with exhibition casebacks?
Not a problem. I'm happy to help. Sub $100 autos are a little limited in general, let alone with an exhibition case back. The snk is a unique piece at that point. But there are a couple other options that come to mind. Although maybe a little less conventional. First would be a Vostok, but you have already seen that here. Plus they don't have exhibition caseback. Second is the Invicta Pro Diver. Which is a little controversial, but most of the controversy comes from people who don't own one, and generally have much more expensive pieces. So a little snobby. ua-cam.com/video/3snr6mPQkq8/v-deo.html Some of the issues come from it being an Invicta, and some from being an homage of the Rolex Submariner. If your new and are curious they are worth checking out. Especially if you happen to catch them on sale. The reason they are good is that they have a Seiko NH35 movement. Which is actually better then what you would get on most Seiko watches Under $300. And third, you have Chinese off brands of Aliexpress or Gearbest. The ones that Just One More Watch calls "Chinese Specials". Many use off brand movements, but the ones that are worth it have Seiko and Miyota (citizen) movements. Plus many will also come with sapphire crystal instead of mineral, which is a bonus. There are some good ones that range from $50-$100. They offer a lot of value and can be fun when just starting and learning. Yet there are 2 issues. The first is there is always some risk from ordering from Aliexpress. I've had a few issues, but they have always been worked out in my favor. Most people don't have a problem, but I always like to warn someone first. That it's not like buying from Amazon. Not to mention it usually takes a month to get something. The other issue is that most of the watches on there are also homage watches. So designs that look like much more expensive established pieces. I don't care about that too much. But for some, it's a no go. I don't know if you have seen this, but I'm running a giveaway with 4 Aliexpress watches. So you can see some of the $100 models. ua-cam.com/video/z8O90t8yeIM/v-deo.html Although this is my favorite AliX watch I've gotten that I've reviewed. ua-cam.com/video/6xlc7DpfL2A/v-deo.html Otherwise, if you are looking for a particular type of watch let me know. Maybe I can point you in the right direction.
I ordered a Chinese skmei 1456 it's a homage or copy lol of the full metal g-shock I'll be honest,I wear the neck of of the skmei! I'd love to have a full metal g-shock but with 2 kids soon to be in college I can't afford one the full metal g that's solar,and atomic would be my sorta grail watch well at least 2or3 on my grail list it only took 3 weeks to get mine it's a typical homage being not as good as what it imitating but I'll be honest it's a great little watch for $14.00 !
Oh yeah I forgot the invicta pro divers are excellent Chou as just make sure people but the nh35a automatic and not the quartz it being the seiko movement is an INCREDIBLE watch but as you know also very controversial! Some people are watch snobs and hate the positive attention the invicta gets!
The Seiko is unmissable in my collection. There is no other watch with mat finishing(which I like) in my collection except for my Vostok. I like the rudimentary clean Flieger look and although I have much more expensive watches I still wear it often. It is a joy to wear letting the dog out, while dancing, in hot weather, at Concerts, doing outdoor things. If I have to choose between my modded Vostok or this Seiko I would pick the Seiko. I like it that much that I also have the blue version and am thinking about getting the green one.
Well at the price why not. I just finished modifying my amphibia, so it looks a little different now. Mostly a matching orange bezel. I've heard of people modifying their Seilko SNKs as well. I Might look into it at some point. Thanks for watching.
Hi, you have applied the same weight to each category. The weights really depend on the user and what he/she wants from a watch. For example, I have never found date/day features useful, so I don't factor those features into the equation. I value durability/reliability/accuracy. I also want a watch that is easy/inexpensive to service. I am also looking for the cool factor. For me the Vostok is the way to go, especially since you can get one direct from Russia for $80.
I rarely subscribe to UA-cam channels, but as I become more intrigued by (or rather addicted to) wristwatches, I'm finding content like yours quite valuable, so I subscribed to yours. Moreover, your video was well produced and your comparison between the two watches was also well done. Dammit!! Now I want them both!!
Thank you. That means a lot. I like field watches way too much. If you haven't already, check out my Seiko SNZG11 video. I actually like it better then Seiko's SNK, although its a little more and a little bigger. I'm also currently editing together a review for the Orient Defender. Orients field watch, which has a little different look, but also has elements of both the SNK and SNZG. Hopefully I'll be done with that before the weekend. On second thought, maybe you shouldn't watch them, you might wind up wanting all of them. :)
I can say on behalf of the snk that it has truly impressed me. It's my work watch from my automatic watch collection. I am a tile setter and I wear the snk for work . Its covered in grout, thinset, dunked in water buckets countless times a day, and most impressive it can handle strong violant vibrations from jack hammers on demo days. 2 years and still ticking. It's been put through the ringer. It , to me, is the ultimate beater watch. I would never wear one of my other watches to work with the torture they would be put through. I wanted a cheap auto seiko , lightweight and small. Its checked every box. At this point itll be sad the day I finally break this thing.
Good comparison. I had both watches and hated the snk bc it is very small and wasn't reliable - it would randomly quit moving throughout the day. The Vostok would sometimes stop moving too, but that was user error. I sold my Vostok after a couple years and regret that decision on a daily basis. Currently looking for another. A category I thought could've been useful is variations/mod-ability. Vostok can be as fun or serious as your heart desires. Pretty sure Amphibia would've gained that point (still would've lost the points challenge though.) Good quick review of both.
Great comparison review Relative Time on both watches beyond just technical specs .Your review is compelling open minded and very fair .Like all your other UA-cam videos too ! You bring your very unique. and qualified insight on all watches as well BTW I ordered 2 Vostoks last week on eBay ,the Amp.and Komm.models Will let you know my take on them too Lastly you have a spot on ,very special broadcast voice for sure !
Watches for me are tools. Bought three Vostoks and only one survived. The vostok case back has better engineering, similar to the early Omega Seamaster 200 professional pre bond. The Seiko movement is a good one but I wouldn't be able to wear this one everyday and work around water to the degree I am used to. My experience after a few years of owning Vostoks is that a good one is good but you have to be lucky on that point.
I had one Amphibia in a ministry case that died on the watch winder. It lasted about 6 months and one day I was going to wear it but it was dead. A Komandirskie I bought out of love for manual wind watches died while trying to set the date. It seems that movement was not up to the back and forth manipulation necessary to set the date. I have one like yours in a 420 case. It is nearly 3 years old. I changed the bezel, crown and regulated it to about +4 sec/day and it is a great beater.
I’m just now discovering some of your earlier reviews and I must say they are nicely done and thorough. I appreciate your efforts and your descriptions. Well-stated without overly done.
If you purchase your Vostok online from Meranom, the 4 to 6 week wait will make you appreciate the watch more plus you get really cool Russian stamps on the package it was delivered in.
@@RelativeTime Man, just went through this. Between meranom and amazon I had 4 orders before a single watch or part got here. Meranom has some cool bezels if you aren't a big fan of some of the "70s" styles. They are super easy to swap too, I did one just by pulling with some force and rotating it back and forth, no tool/blade. Then just push the new one on.
I own a bunch of Seikos 5 and a bunch of Amphibias. Hands down the durability and toughness go to Vostok Amphibias. Waterproofness goes to Amphibias too. Accuracy is about even but regulating a Vostok is so much easier and forgiving. Seiko 5 aesthetic design wins because most Vostok are funky but they're perfect for modding. For me, I'd give the nod to Vostok on.
Is it really fair to compare apples to oranges even though they are both fruits? Here you have a field watch vs. a dive watch and while they are both "entry level" automatic time pieces, they are still (very clearly) apples and oranges to me. For example, you are saying that Seiko (the one you happen to have) has a day/date complications while Vostok has only a date. Is it really fair to say that, knowing that there are plenty of Vostoks out there with both of those complications? You just happen to have the one with just a date and yet you hold it against Vostok. I don't know, my friend, while I like your style of reviews, I must admit that I disagree with your conclusions in this comparison of apples to oranges.
First, thanks for watching, and your continued support. As well as your well thought out comments. Second, you have a very good point. Which is why if you search for Vostok vs. seiko, you will find a hand full of other videos, but they all seem to be comparing the SKX dive watch against and amphibia. I may be the only one comparing a SNK to an amphibia. But that said, I think it is a valid comparison, as long as there is a reason someone might be looking at choosing between the two. Now I think a lot of people usually recommend getting a Seiko SNK to someone who is new to watches. Mostly because of their low price for an automatic Seiko. Since the prices are up a little, they are about the same price as a Vostok Amphibia classic. So I think it's valid, but perhaps a little unconventional for someone wanting a good but affordable automatic. I think there are a lot of people who would normally pick up a seiko without looking at anything else. So if anything, I hope this video will also show them there are alternatives. Although potentially unconventional. Do you think it would be better if it was a komandarski then an amphibia? As for the day date, I apologize if there was some confusion. I'll have to re-watch it. I wasn't trying to say all Vostoks, just specifically the Vostok Amphibias that use that movement. Which I think are all considered Amphibia classics. Or at least they are on Meranom. Sorry if this reply is getting long, but I just want to say one more thing. I've partially put off doing comparison reviews because they can be very subjective. And I don't really like saying one watch is obviously better then the other. As we all have different tastes, and needs in time pieces. But I decided that a comparison video may be a good way to engage, and get conversations started about the topic. Which is why I'm glad you took the time to comment. Thanks again.
Just to chime in on the whole apples to oranges thing. As a new collector myself, it wasn't that long ago that I had no real idea of the differences between dive watches, field watches, etc. But I did know the difference between a Quartz and an Automatic, I knew that I had never owned an automatic, and that I was looking for something inexpensive to consider as my first automatic. I think there probably are a lot of people like that out there on UA-cam, and in that sense, I see a comparison like this as something they would find at the very least, very interesting.
Good point, and if Relative Time would have done the review as "Which should you buy as your first automatic." I would have mostly agreed with him. But he needed click-bait to drive up his numbers so he chose "Which is the better watch." I wholly agree with your comment above. If a new collector/enthusiast was asking which entry level automatic to buy, my answer would be the Seiko. Not that it's a better value or a better watch, but because the Vostok brings with it some challenges (as elicited in the video) that might frustrate or give a new person some concerns about the watch. But if someone is looking for a versatile dive watch that isn't going to cost them an arm and a leg, the Vostok is my first recommendation. Wanna talk value? How about a 200m dive watch for under $80. BTW, I own and wear them both so I have no bias as to which is "better". Both are fun watches, but for completely different reasons.
I agree. It would be more useful to compare a field-to-field watch, or a dive-to-dive, in similar price ranges. First time for everything...good effort.
I have the snk805 and I adore it. This is the first time I have heard/seen the Vostok. I would definitely consider it down the road. I appreciate the objective criticism; the overall analytical approach and the attempt at it during some points when it’s clearly very difficult to be analytical about that certain category. Finally, I like that you provided reasons why choosing one watch over the other would fit his/her’s purpose.
Thanks. Vostoks are interesting. They also make a field watch thats hand wind only called the komandirskie. I've more recently did a direct comparison with it. ua-cam.com/video/4vR0nW8HrTI/v-deo.html Vostok makes some modern watches as well. But the original Amphibias and the komandirskies are kind of oddities in the watch world. They are all sort of throwbacks to a different era of design. Some people like that, others think it's too strange and hate them.
The SNK is a Seiko 5 - I own one - I was eyeing the Vostok Amphibia 120656 before coming across your Komandirskie review - I ordered one - your reviews are infectious - have to watch myself - and your 10 point format is great - stick with it - it is the nearest to an 'apple to apple' comparison
I have the same green SNK Seiko and a Vostok Amphibia with the 'UFO' case 060059, both straps need replacing IMHO. Afraid the Vostock wins down, hand winding and properly waterproof to 200m, the SNK is only 30m which means splash proof. Of course watches vary but my Vostock is very accurate. Also the Vostock can be customised with a stainless steel bezel with Seiko inserts or a bezel less fitting also different backs - see through or special edition backs. Lastly the Lucite glass should not be changed if you want the Vostock to retain its dive capability. My Seiko although very nice lacks the uniqueness of Vostock, and is largely spends its life in the bedside drawer.
I customized mine last week. So densest look exactly the same. Mostly just new bezel. I was thinking about getting a exhibition case back for it. But I thought that it would limit it's dive ability and water resistance. Thanks for watching.
A non handwinding watch is a no no for me and hardlex in my experience is a scratch magnet. I have one that I scratched walking past a metal gate. I hate bead blasted or matte cases. The Seiko looks cheap. I would prefer a vintage watch like Hmt Pilot from the 1980s. £12. No date and handwinding only. I also have a 1954 Omega with a 266 movement. By the way a lower beat rate often means greater longevity. I only have 2 new watches. An Orient Bambino Blue V4 and a 4r39a Seiko with the scratched hardlex. My daily edc is a Vostok Amphibia black scuba dude in the ministry 710 case. And yes it is still on its original bracelet. I love it and wear it for rough work. Acrylic chrystals old or new are easily polished if scratches occur. My Hmt has a domed acrylic and the Omega does too. The Bambino has a domed mineral crystal and the watch is beautiful to look at. My oldest watch was made in the ussr in 1939. 42mm size in a Saucepan case. A low beat movement that has lasted all these years also with a domed chrystal and a lovely patina. I wear the Seiko when my children are around as they gave it to me. The 4r39a movement is much better than the 7S26 which should be put out to grass now and move on.
Acrylic crystal can be polished with toothpaste, I don't know about hardlex. I suspect that one could put a sapphire glass in the Vostok, but this would reduce it's water pressure rating (200 meters with the stock crystal).
I own both watches......While I place a great deal of value in your findings, I would personally move the "Case" feature to the Vostok......and because of its versatility, I would also move the "Value" to the Vostok......Thanks for the great video.......
Great video. I also started the hobby with the Seiko and rhe amfibia. After I like Seiko as a brand but I must say my first auto watch The Vostok will never leave my collection and I sometimes wear it and like It. Despite I also own must higher timepieces
I just ordered a Vostok Komandirskie direct from Russia for $35. It's manual wind, not automatic so not as good as the dive watch... and it won't be here until February probably, but that's dirt cheap for a unique looking watch. I could see collecting the Vostoks like Swatches, getting lots of different colors and playing with them. They seem fun. I have the SNK807 also and I absolutely LOVE it.
I have both and just want to say that the Vostok is just a cool watch. SKX is boring in comparison. No one ever asks “what kind of watch is that”. Get comments all of the time about the Vostok
Have some Vostoks and Hamiltons Khaki fields and still got plans for the Seiko SNK. Field watch is something really beautiful in it`s simplicity when THE LESS = THE MORE.
I prefer the Vostok, it's easy to read than the Seiko, its also shock resistant (i think you missed that. It says so above the large Amfibia logo on the back.), and it's more unusual than other watches in its price and you can get it as low as $20 if you shop from Russian websites. It's my first automatic watch and I have it for nearly a year and I actually dive with it. I love it.
@@RelativeTime I saw that price January this year with leader strap older model and it was in Russian money. I tok my one that time next model and i payed another 10 for the metal strap, so the total with delivery to UK I payed £40. I tried to find one for the same price now but I couldn't.
@@stoyanbalev184 Ok, I would say thats really good. I know they got for less if you can buy them in Russia, but I wasn't sure how much less. Cheers and thanks for looking!
I know this is now a couple of years old now but I just came across it. I own four vostoks amongst my collection and they're great watches. They can be a bit hit and miss on timings. One barely loses a second a day and another over a minute. That said they are dead easy to regulate. I have to admit though if I knew nothing about watches and I was given the choice between the two, I'd probably go for the seiko. By the way the prices for the Seiko has gone through the roof at the moment. £141 for the blue and £179 for the green. At those prices it's a no brainer for what I'd buy now. Interesting video and much enjoyed.
The Vostok Amphibia cannot have the same case back as the Seiko as it too plays a major role in design for its diving capabilities. As far as your assessment on the movements, the Amphibia usually runs within the same functional spec, at least as far as the reviews and personal experience, like the Seiko, but yes, the actual factory specs do differ by a bunch. Nevertheless, you are comparing apples to oranges in some aspects of your comparison. While the Seiko's movement is considered a better "finish" than that of the Amphibia, the Amphibia will take a beating that the Seiko will never hold up to, again, due to design differences with specificity for purpose. Also, the Amphibia can be calibrated to much finer specs without too much ado or trouble. Without a timegrapher, it is a trial and error process but fine-tuning the watch can be achieved. It is a hard comparison, again, as you are not comparing two watches of the same category. Just because both have automatic movements does not make them categorically the same, as both serve two different purposes in use and function. Yes, for an everyday carry many folks would prefer the fit and finish of the Seiko as that is what they picture in a watch when they visualize it on the wrist. With the nylon strap, it gives a manly look to even the most docile of office worker. Nevertheless, if one is looking for a true field watch or diver's watch, the Amphibia wins out for function and durability. Except for one caveat, the acrylic crystal does lose when it comes to using it as a true field watch as it is not as scratch-resistant as a mineral or sapphire crystal. The acrylic scratches much easier. Nevertheless, as long as they are not too deep they can be buffed out easily and the crystal can look new again. Nevertheless, your review was interesting but you needed to add more qualifiers that explain the differences to the average person. The Vostok Amphibia is a good watch, although, I would not put it in the category of the first-time buyer. It is like the Jaguar of watches, the owner has to like tinkering with it to get it just right. Although, it is a tank compared to other watches in its same price range and made to go the distance. I will probably be picking up a Seiko 5 in the next year or so, they are a fine watch and a great deal of the cost. I spent some time researching both before I pulled the trigger on the Amphibia over the Seiko, but again, it was due to the novelty and the history of Vostok's Amphibia more than anything. Being a watch that can be modded and tinkered with easily played a significant role also. Since I am an avid outdoorsman the water-resistance and durability were also a plus. I was not a big fan of the acrylic crystal but I fully understand its purpose.
Having both I’ll take my Vostok over seiko anyday. Ok I updated the dail, costed me 25$ what will bring it to 95$. For that money it’s a great solid absolute waterproof watch. With a little tinkering anyone can make it run less than 4 sec a day slower/faster. And if it breaks for 70 you have a new one.
100% right. It's been a while since I made this. That Seiko is long gone, but still, have that Amphibia. Although I think I like the fully lumed one I got more now.
@@Robin6512 The fully lumed version? No it doesn't. The dial fades out a bit quicker, but the hands last as long as a normal vostok. In fact, you can see a short comparison here at around 11 min. ua-cam.com/video/qWcHSSiT7eQ/v-deo.html
I think you forgot to mention that you can practically replace every single part on Vostoks using parts supplied by meranom. ;) 15 dollars if you want an exhibition back. Or just replace the movement entirely for another Vostok model if you like.
This is true. Before all the COVID hit I was thinking of doing a video building a Vostok solely from parts. I might still, but not sure how long shipping is taking these days.
I liked the review but A LOT of it was subjective but I don't know how much the price range differs I only had one point different which would have made it a tie of course the edge had to go with the seiko ,it's a well known quality brand so much so that I don't think the two can or should be compared I feel that since the vostok is a diver then it should have been compared to another diver,but any way it was entertaining and watched it while wearing my Boston scuba dude 710 case!
I believe I would have given the value category to the Vostok Amphibia as I can't think of any other watch anywhere near that cheap that has proven 200 meter depth capability.
It was a hard choice. There are 2 others I can think of that have 200m wr, but both have their own flaws. The Casio duro is usually $40, but it’s quartz. And there is always the invicta pro diver which is $50-80, but it’s an invicta 😎. Although I would trust the durability of the amphibia much more then those.
You can acquire a set of bezels from beveled elegant one to a ceramic, an a set of bracelet, Nato strap and elegant black leather and you are ready to go any situation
If I was a diver or even liked to swim and needed a bezel that tells me color, I’d go Vostok. Since I’m more interested in quickly reading accurate time I’ll go with Seiko but will probably get a Vostok just for fun as well...
Uniqueness - The Seiko 5 does have a story of sorts. I bought a Speedmaster partly because if it's history - As an engineer I love it. BUT I didn't know that Gene Kranz, Flight Director of the Apollo missions wore a Seiko 5 movement based watch which made me absolutely want one. They are relatively inexpensive although I'm not sure if Seiko are discontinuing the 5 as it doesn't appear in the UK catalogue now. So I think the Seiko does have a little more pedigree than you mention, but it is subjective. Saying that, I guess that the three guys that probably saved a few hundred thousand lives after the Chernobyl disaster by diving into a radioactive water reservoir on a suicide mission (Alexei Ananenko, Valeri Bezpalov and Boris Baranov) were most likely wearing Bostoks. Speculation on my part, however. I'm also waiting for a Bostok to arrive over the next couple of days. As with many things Russian, they tend to take their own approach regarding technology and its deployment. As a general rule Russian design is utilitarian but very well thought out in my opinion and there are a lot of cool features in the execution of the Bostock design. I remember years ago as a kid taking the back of Russian TV's and radios and the semiconductors that they used and physical design were totally different to that which Japan and Europe were producing. Pretty much bomb-proof and as I recall pretty labour-intensive in their execution. I personally think that it is difficult to decide which timepiece is better; for me it's quirkiness of some designs, history and in some cases absolute quality and execution of design. That's the enjoyment of watch collecting - Your collection is a personal thing and you buy pieces for your own reasons and for your own enjoyment. Next purchase for me is going to be a Seamaster - NOT James Bond themed, but a standard watch and as with all of my watches bar a couple will be either on leather or a NATO strap. Thanks for sharing the video!
Very interesting story. I didn't know that. The Seiko 5s must of been relatively new back during the Apollo days at nasa. Thanks for sharing it. My father was an electrical engineer who worked for the US Navy during the Cold War. One of the reasons I've always been fascinated with the different engineering design philosophy between the West and the East.
Thanks for the information you shared about Chernobyl and what Alexei Ananenko, Valeri Bezpalov and Boris Baranov did. I never knew. It seems that the more I learn about watches, the more I learn about everything else.
Stainless steel case and back on the Amphibia. Brass crown on the Amphibia. Easily changed to a stainless steel one bought from Meranom. com. Chrome plated brass case on the Vostok Komandurskie.
Thanks. I have another comparison video filmed, just have to edit it. But I don't think its too exciting, just comparing the Tobollo weekender clone I got, to the real thing. But I'll plan on doing some more. Thanks for watching.
I love both vatches but vostok is a greater value for me. I love vostok corown it is so unique and cool. Also if you buy amfibia you can make a bit of money as well when you resell it
Another point is, you can go to all kinds of vostoks for similar dollars, all kinds if variety. But with Seiko you move up in price quickly. My Seiko straps of 70’s & 80’s were just like the vostoks except lighter & thinner, and removed all the hair on your wrist by pulling each hair out individually.
They're both competent automatics, but with completely different 'personalities'... kinda like dating the 'nice' gal with Straight A's, vs the artsy Goth chick with a preference for Vodka!
If I'm not mistaken, the.Vostok Automatic movement is hand windable and hackable.. Both features are pretty much a requirement for a field watch.. Which is what the Seiko is pretending to be but isn't.. The screw down crown and 200m rating is just icing on the cake..
I have both. My SNK is in the cream color which I love. I find lately I've been wearing my Vostok more though. I love the look. I have the the 120512 which I prefer over the 'scuba dude' featured in this video. Nice video! Sub'd.
I enjoyed your video and it was well done. However, you might have compared the Komandirskie to the Seiko in that they are closer in type and function. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Thanks! I actually had a komandirskie on order when I started making this video. And I though about stopping, and waiting for it, as they are both field watches. Main reason I didn't, was because I remembered that most komandirskies, at least the most popular version, is mechanical not automatic. Although I'm planing on doing a follow up on this at some point. I'm just not sure if It will be snk vs komandarskie. Or Amphibia vs a dive watch. Amphibia vs SKX would be the obvious choice, but I'm not sure that's fair, as the skx is about 3x the cost of the amphibia. Thanks again!
I'm wearing mine now and it's an automatic. Virtually the same movement as the watch you reviewed, just fewer jewels and the date window is at the 3 o'clock position.
I bought off ebay for about £3 a Xi that has that exact green canvas strap on it save the metal is not brushed although in the listing it was shown with a brushed metalwork, its actually for a super cheap Chinese watch quite good with a three day window and a full dial luminosity that holds the light well over 5 mins. The Seiko looks like a low end Sekonda Xpose, I actually have just the one I am thinking of, brushed metal case, same colour of dial and the velcro loop strap is from the same material in that same green too, Seiko's should always look purposeful in my mind and the SNK805 looks incredibly cheap imho. For myself I am giving one of them Tevise's a go, heard their automatic movements ain't bad at all.
Without a doubt, the Vostok is sturdier and more durable, look at the Seiko's crown as it is difficult to handle for the adjustments, since the Vostok's is the ideal size.
The polymer crystal is the biggest limitation. Some people love it as they can fix it or replace it easily. But I'd rather just avoid scratches to begin with.
Imo the Vostok is the watch you get when you know what you’re getting into. And if one want to recommend a one of these two to a person who is new to mechanical watches, then I would go with a Seiko 5
regardless that you did the best presentation on both, I think it is not fair to compare two different watches, Sir. Vostok clearly a dive watch, design to be though enough for more extreme abuse while that Seiko is I believe more a daily general use watch. I think you should compare Vostok with Seiko entry dive watch with the same specs. Just my opinion :)
You have a very valid opinion. And if you look at some of the other comments. Your not alone.😉 So for myself, I think its ok to do a comparison if I can think of a reason, or situation someone may actually be looking at the two. So in this case I think it's more about price, and for a person who may be new to watches. And want's their first automatic, and may not have a preference of dive vs field. In my case, this actually came up as I wanted to get my nephew a good watch for his 16th birthday. So these were two that I came up with, as they are close in price. I ordered a vostok komandarski right before I started making this. And I came close to not making this video, and waiting until the komandarski arrived. So it would be a field vs field watch comparison. But the komandarski I ordered is mechanical, not automatic. So as I said, you have a valid opinion, as I had the same thought myself before making it. But in the end, I'm glad I made it. And I think it's doing well. If nothing else it's gotten some good interactions and comments from people. Even when they don't agree with the conclusion. As for the vostok vs seiko diver is a good idea. One of these days I'll get my hands on a seiko skx, but right now I dont. Thanks for watching, and subscribing.
Gugun Arief you can turn the vostok into field watch. I did, just order plain bezel from meranom & put on nato. And there you are. Total cost maybe $30.00
#Vince yeah do you even know what a field watch is? How the fuck does something as big as this vostok would turn into a field watch? The guy in the video mentioned that he bumped that shit into anything you can imagine while wearing it due to its big size, field watches are known mostly for being small and comfortable to wear as they can get in your way otherwise, ever shot a gun?
Wolvie yes I do. And it works. There is no concern about the size of vostok. What official rule states otherwise. Let me help you with that, NONE. The Seiko is not actually a field watch either, its a small version of a Type A fleiger aviator watch. Early field watches often had simple arabic numbers & simple dial. Some new field watches are not much differencein size. You don’t seem to present facts.
I know that this is an old video but to me a seiko watches is more of a watch to wear dressing up and vostok watches are more of a workhorse but can also be an interesting conversation piece when dressing up. I own a Komandirskie with the 24 hour movement and the date at the 6 o'clock
I have the green Seiko 5, and I also have a Raketa Copernicus and a Vostok dress Neptune that I love. I like the Russian watches for their aesthetics--their functionality is quite frustrating, to be honest, and their value isn't great. But they run, and have very unique faces. The Seiko 5 is an unbeatable value for its quality. I would also disagree about fixing watches. Any of my Russian or Seikos would go to a watch repair store before I threw them away for malfunctioning. Part of the joy of collecting watches is maintaining them for decades--even possibly passing them on to future generations.
Sorry for the late reply. Sentimental value is the tricky thing. Financially it may not make sense, but if you love it and are attached to it then you have to do what you have to do. I have an old watch that was my dad. It’s been dead for years and multiple places have told me it wouldn’t be worth it to fix. Yet I won’t get rid of it. Been slowly trying to fix it myself. The trick is that it’s quartz and uses an uncommon movement that isn’t available anymore. Picked up one donor watch to try and fix it, but it’s movement was also dead.
Another competitor--the Orient Tristar line. Lots of colorways, wide availability, infamously mediocre bracelet (for most models), non-hacking, non-manual movement. Essentially a dress watch, but on some straps can be a casual or sports watch. I have an SNK805 and a Tristar, but no Vostok of any kind. A Vostok is going to join my modest, nothing-over-$350 collection sometime in 2022, but there are so many choices! I'll likely get mine from an Amazon seller (at about a 20-30% premium) so if it arrives in a bad state, I can easily return it.
I agree with the points. I have an Amphibia because I needed water resistance and bezel from a dirt cheap beater watch. It's perfect at fulfilling those requirements but far from perfect overall. The lume is terrible while the accuracy and short power reserve annoy me.
If it breaks you're just going to buy a new one? Then get a quartz, the whole point of an automatic is to get a watch that lasts a lifetime, the cost shouldn't matter, I would never replace the movement in an auto, it gets repaired, period.
6 років тому+8
I'd go with Vostok. I don't want to worry about washing my hands and having water under the watch's glass.
Never had that problem with my SNK 807 no matter what the rating suggests mine has not been babied and has been fully submerged with no problems what so ever. Not diving but swimming seems to be fine for mine.
Great job reviewing these watches. I own both watches and fully agree with you. Quite frankly my Invicta watches with their Seiko hackable and windable movements plus 200m water resistance are a far better value than either one of these watches. Buying direct from the Invicta web site the cost was only $68 including shipping. The Vostok watches have real character and that is my main reason for keeping a few in my collection. Not the most reliable, but still fun to own. Thanks for a very professional review. I'm now a subscriber!
Thanks! Very true, the invicta Pro driver with the Seiko movement is one of the best values you can find. Around black friday last year, Amazon had them for $55. I hope they do it again this year.
Sorry, Invicta is just shit. Sometimes it does not matter how good the case is finished or the quality of the movement inside, or if they start making them in solid gold. It is the fact they are copies of Rolex. Get it? No soul. There is no comparison.
Well you could say the same thing about every subby homage, and everyone who makes one. Which is a whoooole lot of watches and companies. I look at subby homages a little different then most enthusiasts. Since there are so many people making them, I look at them as a type of watch, a sub classification of dive watch. With Rolex being the original and best. The best way to describe what I mean, is to look at a very different industry. Firearms. Colt is the original manufacture of the m1911 (with the legendary John Moses Browning being the designer). The design was ahead of it's time, and was the primary sidearm for the US military for over 70 years. It became, and is iconic. Over that time that patent expired, and people started making their own versions. Originally they called them copies, not homages. But with the same connotation that they were completely inferior to the originals made by Colt. Yet over time, more and more companies started making 1911s. Today, practically every major firearm company makes a 1911. There are even boutique companies that exist who make hand made, high end 1911s. Somewhere along the way, people stopped calling them copies and it just became a type of firearm. A sub classification of handguns that are known as 1911s. People still hold the original colt's with high regard. Yet they don't consider the others any less for not baring that name, but regard them on their own merits.
Relative Time No, your comparison is far-fetched, firearms are bare tools, not made with any esthetic intention in mind (eventual decorations don’t change this). Rolexes stopped being tools long time ago (Gold dive watch? Preposterous) Copies try to capture the glamour but end up being pure kitsch.
As I said, just my opinion from looking at what I see as interesting parallels from two iconic products. Although be it from two very different industries. But let me stress, that I only see this with the Submariner. Not all homages, or all Rolexs. It's the only time piece I can think of that it so iconic, it has inspired a whole sub industry who's mission is to copy it. But Regardless, thanks for watching and the interesting conversation.
Relative Time Well I haven't tested it yet as I work in the office where the light is kinda dim. Anyways, the brightness is awesome and it is fairly easy to reaad but as I said, I wear it in the office so It didnt see much of a daylight so I can't really tell the duration of the lume. The lume isn't even the number one feature on Seiko 5 dress watches tho, they are kinda dressy and they are not supposed to have a long lasting lume. If you need a watch only for its lume feature if yoh work in dim conditions Id suggest you SKX line, they are divers and their lume is granted to last you several hours at least. As for SNKL 43 it looks dope lol, the design of the case, the finishing, dial and 3 needle shaped hands it looks like 300 € watch for sure. Same goes for SNKL41. The bracelet is God awfull its noisy it squeaks like a mouse every single time you move your wrist but the watch itself is amazing.
I got the vostok first... then the snk...803 version... the seiko is the better of the two for an everyday watch... but tbe vostok is for sure more robust.... i wouldnt think twice about swimming with it... the seiko not so mich...
Since this is my first comparison video, let me know what you think of the format. Do you prefer an analytical approach? Or just show the watches and give you an opinion? Thanks!
Relative Time I dis agree with a lot of you opinions
First, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Now I've been putting off doing a comparison video, because often times they can be so subjective based on the creators personal bias. So I've tried to minimize my own by taking a more analytical approach. But even then you can't always escape bias. Especially when it comes to things like design and value.
But I think that's OK, as we all have different tastes and needs. So I think in many ways, comparison reviews are better for starting conversations then anything else.
So in what way do you disagree?
I like the approach. Everyone has their own opinions, but I appreciate that, it's always great to hear other people's opinions on watches and consider things from angles I hadn't thought of. I think this approach was pretty fair, and an interesting comparison, I hadn't ever considered the Amphibia and the SNK to be competitors, but both being automatics in the same price range, it makes sense.
I think you made an interesting point at the end about collectors sort of "growing out" of the SNK as their collection expands. On the flip side, I think the Vostok is such a unique and acquired taste, I can see new collectors buying one and then later finding that it's not for them and then also not wind up wearing it very often.
Since the comparison you do is your opinion, I think any method you like to use to justify your opinion is great. Theoretically, comparisons should always be point-counterpoint, but it really doesn't matter in this case. I have a Vostok Amphibia. I wear it a lot. Especially when I need a beater watch. It keeps marginal time, but it's adequate for its use. I also have a Seiko Turtle (SRP). I love my Turtle in every way.
I think the most reasonable comparison would be the Vostok Amphibia versus the Seiko SKX. They are both entry-level dive watches. The Amphibia would beat the tar out of the SKX. But maybe not using your criteria. I mean let's be honest. The Amphibia is chromed pot metal.
If I ever get an SKX I will. Although there are a few skx vs amphibia comparisons already. Instead of an SKX, I deiced to be different and got a blue Citizen Promaster NY0040. Love that watch, espcialy after I put it on a shark metal bracelet.
I've thought about comparing the two, but since the Promaster is now discontinued I'm not sure if there would be as much interest.
Pot metal is a little harsh, but probably not to far off. :)
Vostok is rated 200m, yet it will dive to 750m no problem. The acrylic dome can be polished with polywatch. If you don't like quirky dials, vostok also comes with conservative classic dials or just change the dial to something you like. You can wind a vostok as hard and rough as you want. It will not break thanks to the wobbly crown. My vostok has been running for 15 years without service. It's around +-20 sec. Vostok looks vintage and looks great on a nato. Mine got an aftermarket bezel that makes it look a lot more expensive than it is.
Vostok for me. Quirkiness, bezel, and much more interesting. I actually like the band in mine because it is cheap and I don’t worry about scratching it up.
I may have been too harsh on the bracelet. Someone pointed out, that the vostok I got has the older bracelet. I got a an automatic komandarskie a few days ago, and it came with a better bracelet. One with solid links. So my Amphibia may have been old stock.
Thanks for watchin!
Vostok always wins, because nothing can beat a little Glorious Russian heart beating close to your own heart beat.
Russian’s have hearts? Lol jk
@@Seffsqautch Do you doubt it?ua-cam.com/video/BcCbX1fqFKA/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/Savt4oJaji0/v-deo.html
Yep, they have two completely different kinds of appeal, apples and oranges... or perhaps more like Toyotas and AK-47's.
I have both of these watches. I enjoy the simplicity of the seiko, but customizability of the vostock makes it a fun and personalizable watch.
Just ordered my first Vostok this weekend. Even on amazon it’s going to take a month to get here. Very anticipated to see it for myself.
Wait is the hard part. Half the time you wind up ordering a second one while you are waiting, because you keep looking. 😀
Vostok, of course. Mine has the 420 case like yours, and the coarser mesh bracelet - goes well with anything except maybe a tux. And there are inexpensive Vostok dress watches for that.
I'm extremely excited. About a week ago I received a SNX803 and today a Vostok Amphibia Ref: 420634. I'm in love with the Vostok big time. The Seiko, well, its ordinary. Like the weight, quality, materials and feel of it. But this Vostok, is such a nice piece. Just love it to death. It's my winner big time. Just me though.
Is that the black scuba dude? Enjoy it. It should go great with lots of different straps.
The date on my Vostok kicks over at midnight on the dot. The Seiko starts gradually going about 9.30 pm.
I hate that.
That's something I forgot to mention. While I wish the amphibia date was quickset. The instant flip of the date at midnight is very nice.
+Relative Time Plenty of parts, movements and bezels on Meranom.com
yeah lol and that is the day of the week. It isn't til after midnight that the day starts to change, taking another couple hours lol
neil piper Yes, the Seiko Day/Date is a bit sloppy (just like the skx in that regard and the older Seiko 7006 movement was worse). The Vostok is a bit of a bugger to set without a quicksetting ability. Thankfully though, it has that oversized crown to make it very comfortable to adjust .. Nothing is perfect eh ☺️ I do love the Amphibia though - flic.kr/p/24i7tww
Good point!
I own several Vostoks, so I'm biased for sure but I'm forced to agree. If you wish to regulate your own watch and service them yourself the Vostok is fantastic to learn on. They offer many at under $30 so if you screw up no big deal. I've bought many Vostoks as the specific military issued watches are interesting and rich in history. Radio operator, tanker, paratrooper, and navy models are awesome. I've played with both automatic and standard movements and been able to regulate them to a +- 4or5 seconds. It's just a small lever on the balance. The Anphibia's unique gasket back and retaining ring are very innovative. The wobble crown is a great safety feature for novice watch enthusiasts that want to learn to service on their own. I love Seiko I have a SKX of course, I also don't own any watch over $500 so Vostok gives great selection without breaking the bank. $300 buys 4 or 5 cool styles. It's cool to go to a HAM radio field day and wear your radio operator's Vostok perfectly regulated. I usually sell quite a few that day as well. You're right the bracelets suck but they are made for durability and not style. They are vertically indistinguishable but ugly and jangly. I put them on a nice rubber or NATO strap. Innovation, history, durability and quirkiness make them the AK-47 of watches. I got one over 30 years old that had never been serviced still ran. I cleaned and oiled it got it regulated to +- 15 seconds. How cool is that? Biased Vostock nut.
Any enthusiast/collector or lover concerning automatic watches should have a Vostok Amphibia
Very true. They are so cheap you might as well try one.
830 Meters of Depth and also a Trip in the Space for 29 Days in 1975 and the fact that my Amphibia works in 36hrs exact 1 second + Makes the Amphibia to my Favorite!!!
I set my Amphibia with the Atomic Watch.
The date seting is a faster when you turn 24 Hrs and than over the 3P.M than back to 9 A.M repeat this step and you can Speed set the Date.
I have two Vostok Amphibia watches. Out of the box, each was accurate to just a couple seconds per day, and have remained so for the six months i have owned them. I also own the SNK805 olive drab Seiko (& 10 or so other Seiko & Seiko5 watches). The SNK805 was very inaccurate for the first few months with a power reserve of just a few hours. It has recently been enjoying a steady improvement in its performance but only to a barely acceptable level, making it the only watch i have ever owned that actually had to be broken in. I love most watches, but if I could only have one watch and had a very limited watch budget, i would opt for the Vostok Amphibia over the SNK8xx.
Pretty much how I feel. Although I've been much less lucky with the Accuracy of my Vostoks, but they aren't hard to regulate myself. Out of curiosity, whats your Ph.D in?
Applied optical physics
Very cool. My background is in Analytical Chemistry, although I did help out in a laser lab one semester in undergrad. It was so long ago, I'm not sure I remember exactly what we were doing. It was some sort of wave mixing technique for chemical analysis.
I’m really not sure that the this is fair comparison. Field watches and dive watches serve completely different purposes. A more balanced comparison would be a Vostok Komandirskie vs Seiko SNK805.
Regardless, the lack of polish and refinement, in my humble opinion, is what makes the Vostok Amphibia more charming and gives it a little more character. It’s like comparing a Jeep wrangler to a Honda Civic. The Jeep isn’t as refined as a Civic, but the Civic will not perform that well in an all terrain environment.
Great video with well articulated assessments of both watches, although the Vostok has a stainless steel case with a chrome coated brass bezel. Keep up the great videos!!
Thanks! I agree, there really is no perfect watch for every situation. Each one was made with a specific purpose in mind. And thats where its strengths lie.
As for Komandirskie vs snk, funny you should mention that. I did this video a bit ago, and that was the most common comment. So I'm working on a part 2 that is Komandirskie vs snk805. Probably have it done in a couple weeks. I've had to go out of town to visit family.
I originally didn't do that comparison, as I was looking more at price, and focusing on an automatic. And wasn't thinking dive vs field. But so many people have mentioned it, I might as well do a follow up.
Cheers!
EXACTLY!
If this guy was a car enthusiast he'd be comparing a Pick up truck with a sports car
More like a Lada Niva (the Russian equivalent of a Jeep) vs a Honda Civic!
disagree with the value. Vostok is a legit dive watch for 60-70, that clearly should've won
You have a good point. Like I said, I found it close.
For me I was thinking, if you wanted another Vostok or Russian watch. There is always the Komandarski, which is usually cheaper. If you wanted another dive watch with 200m resistance, there are couple other options around the same price, or cheaper. Although none of those have the real world testing that the Amphibia does.
Meanwhile if you wanted another Seiko, or Japanese Automatic. Thats it, nothing cheaper. And you get a movement that is used in watches that cost more. So for me, that gave the Seiko a slight advantage. But value is a very subjective and relative thing for each person.
That said, I'm only keeping my Seiko SNK around to do a few more comparison videos with. While my Amphibia isn't going anywhere. And I'm waiting for a komandarski to arrive.
Thanks for watching.
I have one question, maybe i missed it. How can the Vostok be a dive watch when there is no lum on the bezel? Did the bezel rotate both ways?
@@wayneriley7367 Bidirectional bezel means no dive.
Wayne Riley It's a dive watch in the sense that it has crazy levels of water resistance. Here is a video of a Vostok Amphibia surviving 700M of water pressure. I would argue that it is perhaps the ONLY real dive watch under 200 dollars. ua-cam.com/video/s-YKyDkpXbc/v-deo.html
@@wayneriley7367 That doesn't really matter, it is a dive watch because it was developed by the Soviets to be used in their military specifically as a dive watch. The reason the Seiko wins is because it gives you reliable Japanese quality and assurance for a low price, while the Vostok retains its communist quality control standards.
I go for the Vostok Unique is a conversation piece.not many out there,especially if you are a collector.,the Seiko litter boring for my taste ,but excellent watch.
I love the uniqueness of the Vostok
All my watches growing up were gifts. Timex and Pulsar. My first watch I bought myself and recently let go because of repair issues was a Bulova Astronaut. It looked like a 🛸 UFO on my wrist. The Russian watch is really cool looking.
Without having finished the video I can tell you my first two automatics were these two watches. Owning and loving both I can say without a doubt that the SNK is nicer for sure, but I love my Amphibia as a beater, even more than my G-Shock sometimes.
The SNK809 was my first automatic........a year or so later, I started collecting.....and Vostok quickly became one of my favorites. I currently have 4.
My vostok came with a very nice tropic style strap. I was pleasantly surprised that it came with something I will willingly wear because I had heard of the awful bracelets.
The Amphibia-type Vostok are actually the AK-47's of watchmaking. I have one from the late 70s (made for the former USSR) running at a precision of - 9 seconds a day since I bought it for about 3 years in Ukraine. Surprising at the cost price since for the USSR there was no difference between affordable and luxury watches.
Is there much difference from the models today, and that one from the 70s?
@@RelativeTime I believe quality was better in the times of the USSR. At that time the Vostok company began to export watches to the West with the proposal to sell decent watches with quality near to the simplest Swiss models. They won awards at a Leipzig watchmaking International fair in the late 1970s.
I drive a Lada Niva, now i own a Vostok................time to cook some cabbage rolls......cheers from Canada
Have a vostok. Great watch, almost unbreakable, but not as good a timekeeper as a Seiko. Thanks for this video,
Thank you for creating and posting this video! I thought the analytical approach was useful, especially as you made an effort to be unbiased in the comparison and, where you expressed an opinion, you made it clear that this was so. It was also an interesting comparison as, though I own two Vostoks and no SNK, before the video, I would have assumed that the Seiko would have trumped the Vostok in the comparison - the Vostok is such a quirky thing! I was surprised that the outcome was not as clear as I would have imagined, but I agreed with your evaluations. The only additional category that might have been added from my side would be “cult following”. There is an important fan club for the Amphibia that does not exist for the SNK, as far as I am aware. However, Seiko is incomparably a better respected overall make than Vostok. I will register onto your channel and will look forward to other videos. Thanks again.
Thanks for watching, and thanks for the well thought out comment. As I was saying this is my first comparison. so I was trying to come up with a good format to go forward with. I just replied to another comment, that I wanted to do it this way to minimize any personal bias. Yet still have a way to give a more personal opinion. So thanks for the great feedback.
A "cult following" category might be interesting. A cult following doesn't necessarily make a watch better, but it does show that there is something about it that is special. I'll have to think about . Although that might factor in nicely within the uniqueness category as well.
Again, thanks for watching!
Just got my first Vostok amphibia (green scuba dude dial, original red and blue dot bezel); coincidentally, also the first automatic I've purchased: so thanks for the inspiration, I'm diggin' it :)
Waiting on mine, and hoping it works fine because I doubt I'll pay for a return to Russia.
@@johnrooney507 Best of luck, mine arrived in Australia a month to the day from ordering. Been keeping excellent time since then: I haven't officially checked it, but it's less than a minute fast over the last week or so.
@@pablomuslera9469 Can't beat the price so it's worth a shot. One video said to watch out for corrosion on the stem if you seriously use it in water, sweat etc, and should put sillicone grease on it.
@@pablomuslera9469 Very likely to encounter moisture here in Florida.
Great vid, I am very much on the fence between these two. However I’m gonna have to go with the Vostok, personally. The durability, uniqueness, greater case size and variety of options for the Vostok are what prove greater value IMHO. And that’s coming from a seiko fan.
You can't really go wrong with either. But the Amphibia has a lot more character. Plus if nothing else you get a great conversation starter.
You need both😎. You will not be dissapointed.
I'm with you, Marinus. I want both watches.Just beginning a real collection. I have maybe 20+. (haven't even really counted - just sort of bought them over time).
I don't have Omega Speedmaster bucks, but I did just buy the Bulova Lunar pilot - $300 on EBay)
Most of my buys will have to be under $200, so affordable pieces like the Vostok and the Seiko 5 are definitely on the wishlist.
Thinks for a very well presented, accurate comparison. I personally have to go for the Vostok because Seiko autos just won't keep going on me!
Thank you for taking the time to create this thoughtful and articulate video. I am just getting into watches, and I'm sorely disappointed at the rising prices of the SNK's. Do other companies make comparable sub-$100 automatics with exhibition casebacks?
Not a problem. I'm happy to help. Sub $100 autos are a little limited in general, let alone with an exhibition case back. The snk is a unique piece at that point. But there are a couple other options that come to mind. Although maybe a little less conventional.
First would be a Vostok, but you have already seen that here. Plus they don't have exhibition caseback.
Second is the Invicta Pro Diver. Which is a little controversial, but most of the controversy comes from people who don't own one, and generally have much more expensive pieces. So a little snobby.
ua-cam.com/video/3snr6mPQkq8/v-deo.html
Some of the issues come from it being an Invicta, and some from being an homage of the Rolex Submariner.
If your new and are curious they are worth checking out. Especially if you happen to catch them on sale. The reason they are good is that they have a Seiko NH35 movement. Which is actually better then what you would get on most Seiko watches Under $300.
And third, you have Chinese off brands of Aliexpress or Gearbest. The ones that Just One More Watch calls "Chinese Specials". Many use off brand movements, but the ones that are worth it have Seiko and Miyota (citizen) movements. Plus many will also come with sapphire crystal instead of mineral, which is a bonus. There are some good ones that range from $50-$100.
They offer a lot of value and can be fun when just starting and learning. Yet there are 2 issues. The first is there is always some risk from ordering from Aliexpress. I've had a few issues, but they have always been worked out in my favor. Most people don't have a problem, but I always like to warn someone first. That it's not like buying from Amazon. Not to mention it usually takes a month to get something.
The other issue is that most of the watches on there are also homage watches. So designs that look like much more expensive established pieces. I don't care about that too much. But for some, it's a no go.
I don't know if you have seen this, but I'm running a giveaway with 4 Aliexpress watches. So you can see some of the $100 models.
ua-cam.com/video/z8O90t8yeIM/v-deo.html
Although this is my favorite AliX watch I've gotten that I've reviewed.
ua-cam.com/video/6xlc7DpfL2A/v-deo.html
Otherwise, if you are looking for a particular type of watch let me know. Maybe I can point you in the right direction.
I ordered a Chinese skmei 1456 it's a homage or copy lol of the full metal g-shock I'll be honest,I wear the neck of of the skmei! I'd love to have a full metal g-shock but with 2 kids soon to be in college I can't afford one the full metal g that's solar,and atomic would be my sorta grail watch well at least 2or3 on my grail list it only took 3 weeks to get mine it's a typical homage being not as good as what it imitating but I'll be honest it's a great little watch for $14.00 !
Oh yeah I forgot the invicta pro divers are excellent Chou as just make sure people but the nh35a automatic and not the quartz it being the seiko movement is an INCREDIBLE watch but as you know also very controversial! Some people are watch snobs and hate the positive attention the invicta gets!
The Seiko is unmissable in my collection. There is no other watch with mat finishing(which I like) in my collection except for my Vostok. I like the rudimentary clean Flieger look and although I have much more expensive watches I still wear it often. It is a joy to wear letting the dog out, while dancing, in hot weather, at Concerts, doing outdoor things. If I have to choose between my modded Vostok or this Seiko I would pick the Seiko. I like it that much that I also have the blue version and am thinking about getting the green one.
Well at the price why not. I just finished modifying my amphibia, so it looks a little different now. Mostly a matching orange bezel. I've heard of people modifying their Seilko SNKs as well. I Might look into it at some point. Thanks for watching.
Relative Time Love that Orange bezel on the Orange Scubadude.
Got a blue one right now. Went for the"safe" option😊.
the Seiko 5, it is just so understated, simple easy to wear and own, effortlessly classy.
I would chose that vostok anyday over that seiko.... That is a tank from mother Russia.....
Syed Ahmed Faruque
Only thing against is having to set it often but that is an opinion. It just seems traditional to me...
Hi, you have applied the same weight to each category. The weights really depend on the user and what he/she wants from a watch. For example, I have never found date/day features useful, so I don't factor those features into the equation. I value durability/reliability/accuracy. I also want a watch that is easy/inexpensive to service. I am also looking for the cool factor. For me the Vostok is the way to go, especially since you can get one direct from Russia for $80.
I rarely subscribe to UA-cam channels, but as I become more intrigued by (or rather addicted to) wristwatches, I'm finding content like yours quite valuable, so I subscribed to yours.
Moreover, your video was well produced and your comparison between the two watches was also well done.
Dammit!! Now I want them both!!
Thank you. That means a lot. I like field watches way too much. If you haven't already, check out my Seiko SNZG11 video. I actually like it better then Seiko's SNK, although its a little more and a little bigger.
I'm also currently editing together a review for the Orient Defender. Orients field watch, which has a little different look, but also has elements of both the SNK and SNZG. Hopefully I'll be done with that before the weekend.
On second thought, maybe you shouldn't watch them, you might wind up wanting all of them. :)
I can say on behalf of the snk that it has truly impressed me. It's my work watch from my automatic watch collection. I am a tile setter and I wear the snk for work . Its covered in grout, thinset, dunked in water buckets countless times a day, and most impressive it can handle strong violant vibrations from jack hammers on demo days. 2 years and still ticking. It's been put through the ringer. It , to me, is the ultimate beater watch. I would never wear one of my other watches to work with the torture they would be put through. I wanted a cheap auto seiko , lightweight and small. Its checked every box. At this point itll be sad the day I finally break this thing.
Good comparison. I had both watches and hated the snk bc it is very small and wasn't reliable - it would randomly quit moving throughout the day. The Vostok would sometimes stop moving too, but that was user error. I sold my Vostok after a couple years and regret that decision on a daily basis. Currently looking for another.
A category I thought could've been useful is variations/mod-ability. Vostok can be as fun or serious as your heart desires. Pretty sure Amphibia would've gained that point (still would've lost the points challenge though.)
Good quick review of both.
Great comparison review Relative Time on both watches beyond just technical specs .Your review is compelling open minded and very fair .Like all your other UA-cam videos too ! You bring your very unique. and qualified insight on all watches as well BTW I ordered 2 Vostoks last week on eBay ,the Amp.and Komm.models Will let you know my take on them too Lastly you have a spot on ,very special broadcast voice for sure !
Watches for me are tools. Bought three Vostoks and only one survived. The vostok case back has better engineering, similar to the early Omega Seamaster 200 professional pre bond. The Seiko movement is a good one but I wouldn't be able to wear this one everyday and work around water to the degree I am used to. My experience after a few years of owning Vostoks is that a good one is good but you have to be lucky on that point.
How long did your 2 Vostoks last before dying? Did they just stop?
I had one Amphibia in a ministry case that died on the watch winder. It lasted about 6 months and one day I was going to wear it but it was dead. A Komandirskie I bought out of love for manual wind watches died while trying to set the date. It seems that movement was not up to the back and forth manipulation necessary to set the date. I have one like yours in a 420 case. It is nearly 3 years old. I changed the bezel, crown and regulated it to about +4 sec/day and it is a great beater.
I’m just now discovering some of your earlier reviews and I must say they are nicely done and thorough. I appreciate your efforts and your descriptions. Well-stated without overly done.
Thanks! Although the question is which do you prefer. Style has changed a little bit, but not much. I think I've just streamlined things a little.
Relative Time why can’t I like both? LOL. Streamlined is good.
If you purchase your Vostok online from Meranom, the 4 to 6 week wait will make you appreciate the watch more plus you get really cool Russian stamps on the package it was delivered in.
Although the biggest problem of waiting so long. Is you keep looking at Meranom while you wait, and wanting to order more.
@@RelativeTime Man, just went through this. Between meranom and amazon I had 4 orders before a single watch or part got here. Meranom has some cool bezels if you aren't a big fan of some of the "70s" styles. They are super easy to swap too, I did one just by pulling with some force and rotating it back and forth, no tool/blade. Then just push the new one on.
I own a bunch of Seikos 5 and a bunch of Amphibias. Hands down the durability and toughness go to Vostok Amphibias. Waterproofness goes to Amphibias too. Accuracy is about even but regulating a Vostok is so much easier and forgiving. Seiko 5 aesthetic design wins because most Vostok are funky but they're perfect for modding. For me, I'd give the nod to Vostok on.
Is it really fair to compare apples to oranges even though they are both fruits? Here you have a field watch vs. a dive watch and while they are both "entry level" automatic time pieces, they are still (very clearly) apples and oranges to me. For example, you are saying that Seiko (the one you happen to have) has a day/date complications while Vostok has only a date. Is it really fair to say that, knowing that there are plenty of Vostoks out there with both of those complications? You just happen to have the one with just a date and yet you hold it against Vostok. I don't know, my friend, while I like your style of reviews, I must admit that I disagree with your conclusions in this comparison of apples to oranges.
First, thanks for watching, and your continued support. As well as your well thought out comments. Second, you have a very good point. Which is why if you search for Vostok vs. seiko, you will find a hand full of other videos, but they all seem to be comparing the SKX dive watch against and amphibia. I may be the only one comparing a SNK to an amphibia.
But that said, I think it is a valid comparison, as long as there is a reason someone might be looking at choosing between the two. Now I think a lot of people usually recommend getting a Seiko SNK to someone who is new to watches. Mostly because of their low price for an automatic Seiko. Since the prices are up a little, they are about the same price as a Vostok Amphibia classic. So I think it's valid, but perhaps a little unconventional for someone wanting a good but affordable automatic.
I think there are a lot of people who would normally pick up a seiko without looking at anything else. So if anything, I hope this video will also show them there are alternatives. Although potentially unconventional. Do you think it would be better if it was a komandarski then an amphibia?
As for the day date, I apologize if there was some confusion. I'll have to re-watch it. I wasn't trying to say all Vostoks, just specifically the Vostok Amphibias that use that movement. Which I think are all considered Amphibia classics. Or at least they are on Meranom.
Sorry if this reply is getting long, but I just want to say one more thing. I've partially put off doing comparison reviews because they can be very subjective. And I don't really like saying one watch is obviously better then the other. As we all have different tastes, and needs in time pieces. But I decided that a comparison video may be a good way to engage, and get conversations started about the topic. Which is why I'm glad you took the time to comment. Thanks again.
Just to chime in on the whole apples to oranges thing. As a new collector myself, it wasn't that long ago that I had no real idea of the differences between dive watches, field watches, etc. But I did know the difference between a Quartz and an Automatic, I knew that I had never owned an automatic, and that I was looking for something inexpensive to consider as my first automatic. I think there probably are a lot of people like that out there on UA-cam, and in that sense, I see a comparison like this as something they would find at the very least, very interesting.
Good point, and if Relative Time would have done the review as "Which should you buy as your first automatic." I would have mostly agreed with him. But he needed click-bait to drive up his numbers so he chose "Which is the better watch." I wholly agree with your comment above. If a new collector/enthusiast was asking which entry level automatic to buy, my answer would be the Seiko. Not that it's a better value or a better watch, but because the Vostok brings with it some challenges (as elicited in the video) that might frustrate or give a new person some concerns about the watch. But if someone is looking for a versatile dive watch that isn't going to cost them an arm and a leg, the Vostok is my first recommendation. Wanna talk value? How about a 200m dive watch for under $80. BTW, I own and wear them both so I have no bias as to which is "better". Both are fun watches, but for completely different reasons.
I agree. It would be more useful to compare a field-to-field watch, or a dive-to-dive, in similar price ranges. First time for everything...good effort.
One of the best watch comparisons, I've come across. Thanks for sharing Sir!
Thanks a lot! Your comment is much appreciated.
Excellent vid, thanks! Good comparison, pacing, background music, etc. Very nicely done.
Thank you. 😀
I have the snk805 and I adore it. This is the first time I have heard/seen the Vostok. I would definitely consider it down the road. I appreciate the objective criticism; the overall analytical approach and the attempt at it during some points when it’s clearly very difficult to be analytical about that certain category. Finally, I like that you provided reasons why choosing one watch over the other would fit his/her’s purpose.
Thanks. Vostoks are interesting. They also make a field watch thats hand wind only called the komandirskie. I've more recently did a direct comparison with it.
ua-cam.com/video/4vR0nW8HrTI/v-deo.html
Vostok makes some modern watches as well. But the original Amphibias and the komandirskies are kind of oddities in the watch world. They are all sort of throwbacks to a different era of design. Some people like that, others think it's too strange and hate them.
The SNK is a Seiko 5 - I own one - I was eyeing the Vostok Amphibia 120656 before coming across your Komandirskie review - I ordered one - your reviews are infectious - have to watch myself - and your 10 point format is great - stick with it - it is the nearest to an 'apple to apple' comparison
Just saw your other comment. Seiko 5s are great, but the Vostoks just have something more unique. Thanks again!
Russian made stuffs may not carry the finesse but are functional - fun and inexpensive - I know - I use many Russian lenses in my photography
I have the same green SNK Seiko and a Vostok Amphibia with the 'UFO' case 060059, both straps need replacing IMHO. Afraid the Vostock wins down, hand winding and properly waterproof to 200m, the SNK is only 30m which means splash proof. Of course watches vary but my Vostock is very accurate. Also the Vostock can be customised with a stainless steel bezel with Seiko inserts or a bezel less fitting also different backs - see through or special edition backs.
Lastly the Lucite glass should not be changed if you want the Vostock to retain its dive capability. My Seiko although very nice lacks the uniqueness of Vostock, and is largely spends its life in the bedside drawer.
I customized mine last week. So densest look exactly the same. Mostly just new bezel. I was thinking about getting a exhibition case back for it. But I thought that it would limit it's dive ability and water resistance. Thanks for watching.
A non handwinding watch is a no no for me and hardlex in my experience is a scratch magnet. I have one that I scratched walking past a metal gate.
I hate bead blasted or matte cases.
The Seiko looks cheap.
I would prefer a vintage watch like Hmt Pilot from the 1980s.
£12. No date and handwinding only. I also have a 1954 Omega with a 266 movement. By the way a lower beat rate often means greater longevity.
I only have 2 new watches. An Orient Bambino Blue V4
and a 4r39a Seiko with the scratched hardlex.
My daily edc is a Vostok Amphibia black scuba dude in the ministry 710 case. And yes it is still on its original bracelet.
I love it and wear it for rough work.
Acrylic chrystals old or new are easily polished if scratches occur.
My Hmt has a domed acrylic and the Omega does too.
The Bambino has a domed mineral crystal and the watch is beautiful to look at.
My oldest watch was made in the ussr in 1939. 42mm size in a Saucepan case. A low beat movement that has lasted all these years also with a domed chrystal and a lovely patina. I wear the Seiko when my children are around as they gave it to me. The 4r39a movement is much better than the 7S26 which should be put out to grass now and move on.
Acrylic crystal can be polished with toothpaste, I don't know about hardlex. I suspect that one could put a sapphire glass in the Vostok, but this would reduce it's water pressure rating (200 meters with the stock crystal).
I own both watches......While I place a great deal of value in your findings, I would personally move the "Case" feature to the Vostok......and because of its versatility, I would also move the "Value" to the Vostok......Thanks for the great video.......
I think it was close on both fronts. Although it's been over a year since I made this, I've long sold the Seiko, but Vostok isn't going anywhere.
The seikos are all down to $60 on amazon now. Just ordered one. So pumped!
I noticed that the other day. Still no idea why they were so high. The high point for the snk809 was 146 in late December. just crazy!
They're back up now...
Great video. I also started the hobby with the Seiko and rhe amfibia. After
I like Seiko as a brand but I must say my first auto watch
The Vostok will never leave my collection and I sometimes wear it and like
It. Despite I also own must higher timepieces
I just ordered a Vostok Komandirskie direct from Russia for $35. It's manual wind, not automatic so not as good as the dive watch... and it won't be here until February probably, but that's dirt cheap for a unique looking watch. I could see collecting the Vostoks like Swatches, getting lots of different colors and playing with them. They seem fun. I have the SNK807 also and I absolutely LOVE it.
I have both and just want to say that the Vostok is just a cool watch. SKX is boring in comparison. No one ever asks “what kind of watch is that”. Get comments all of the time about the Vostok
This is very true. I've since sold that Seiko, but the Vostok is here to stay.
Have some Vostoks and Hamiltons Khaki fields and still got plans for the Seiko SNK. Field watch is something really beautiful in it`s simplicity when THE LESS = THE MORE.
I live about an hour drive from the Vostok factory. If there is an issue I can drive it back :)
I prefer the Vostok, it's easy to read than the Seiko, its also shock resistant (i think you missed that. It says so above the large Amfibia logo on the back.), and it's more unusual than other watches in its price and you can get it as low as $20 if you shop from Russian websites. It's my first automatic watch and I have it for nearly a year and I actually dive with it. I love it.
What Russian sites are you going to? Or is that a Komandirskie for $20? Cheers!
@@RelativeTime I saw that price January this year with leader strap older model and it was in Russian money. I tok my one that time next model and i payed another 10 for the metal strap, so the total with delivery to UK I payed £40. I tried to find one for the same price now but I couldn't.
@@stoyanbalev184 Ok, I would say thats really good. I know they got for less if you can buy them in Russia, but I wasn't sure how much less. Cheers and thanks for looking!
Got to be the Bostoc. Way more character and more fun.
This is true, although harder to get these days.
Seiko S5 vs Vostok Amphibia.... Clash of the little titans 😍
HA! that they are!
I know this is now a couple of years old now but I just came across it. I own four vostoks amongst my collection and they're great watches. They can be a bit hit and miss on timings. One barely loses a second a day and another over a minute. That said they are dead easy to regulate. I have to admit though if I knew nothing about watches and I was given the choice between the two, I'd probably go for the seiko. By the way the prices for the Seiko has gone through the roof at the moment. £141 for the blue and £179 for the green. At those prices it's a no brainer for what I'd buy now. Interesting video and much enjoyed.
I'm still amazed at how much prices fluctuate on those.
The Vostok Amphibia cannot have the same case back as the Seiko as it too plays a major role in design for its diving capabilities. As far as your assessment on the movements, the Amphibia usually runs within the same functional spec, at least as far as the reviews and personal experience, like the Seiko, but yes, the actual factory specs do differ by a bunch. Nevertheless, you are comparing apples to oranges in some aspects of your comparison. While the Seiko's movement is considered a better "finish" than that of the Amphibia, the Amphibia will take a beating that the Seiko will never hold up to, again, due to design differences with specificity for purpose. Also, the Amphibia can be calibrated to much finer specs without too much ado or trouble. Without a timegrapher, it is a trial and error process but fine-tuning the watch can be achieved. It is a hard comparison, again, as you are not comparing two watches of the same category. Just because both have automatic movements does not make them categorically the same, as both serve two different purposes in use and function. Yes, for an everyday carry many folks would prefer the fit and finish of the Seiko as that is what they picture in a watch when they visualize it on the wrist. With the nylon strap, it gives a manly look to even the most docile of office worker. Nevertheless, if one is looking for a true field watch or diver's watch, the Amphibia wins out for function and durability. Except for one caveat, the acrylic crystal does lose when it comes to using it as a true field watch as it is not as scratch-resistant as a mineral or sapphire crystal. The acrylic scratches much easier. Nevertheless, as long as they are not too deep they can be buffed out easily and the crystal can look new again. Nevertheless, your review was interesting but you needed to add more qualifiers that explain the differences to the average person. The Vostok Amphibia is a good watch, although, I would not put it in the category of the first-time buyer. It is like the Jaguar of watches, the owner has to like tinkering with it to get it just right. Although, it is a tank compared to other watches in its same price range and made to go the distance. I will probably be picking up a Seiko 5 in the next year or so, they are a fine watch and a great deal of the cost. I spent some time researching both before I pulled the trigger on the Amphibia over the Seiko, but again, it was due to the novelty and the history of Vostok's Amphibia more than anything. Being a watch that can be modded and tinkered with easily played a significant role also. Since I am an avid outdoorsman the water-resistance and durability were also a plus. I was not a big fan of the acrylic crystal but I fully understand its purpose.
Having both I’ll take my Vostok over seiko anyday. Ok I updated the dail, costed me 25$ what will bring it to 95$. For that money it’s a great solid absolute waterproof watch. With a little tinkering anyone can make it run less than 4 sec a day slower/faster. And if it breaks for 70 you have a new one.
100% right. It's been a while since I made this. That Seiko is long gone, but still, have that Amphibia. Although I think I like the fully lumed one I got more now.
@@RelativeTime with one would that be if I may ask?
does the lime stay all night?
my aftermarket one is still visible in the morning.
@@Robin6512 The fully lumed version? No it doesn't. The dial fades out a bit quicker, but the hands last as long as a normal vostok.
In fact, you can see a short comparison here at around 11 min.
ua-cam.com/video/qWcHSSiT7eQ/v-deo.html
I think the Vostok has the better value because there is so much modding you can do with it.
I think you forgot to mention that you can practically replace every single part on Vostoks using parts supplied by meranom. ;)
15 dollars if you want an exhibition back. Or just replace the movement entirely for another Vostok model if you like.
This is true. Before all the COVID hit I was thinking of doing a video building a Vostok solely from parts. I might still, but not sure how long shipping is taking these days.
@@RelativeTime And not forgetting that the parts also ship from Russia...
I liked the review but A LOT of it was subjective but I don't know how much the price range differs I only had one point different which would have made it a tie of course the edge had to go with the seiko ,it's a well known quality brand so much so that I don't think the two can or should be compared I feel that since the vostok is a diver then it should have been compared to another diver,but any way it was entertaining and watched it while wearing my Boston scuba dude 710 case!
Sorry scuba dude not Boston dude! Stupid autocorrect lol
Don’t worry I got what you meant. 👍
Value should've gone to the Vostok.
You have to service Seikos every 2-3 years...where as the Vostok could go up to 10 years without servicing.
I've had some people tell me they've gone close to 20 years and haven't services their Seiko. Probably not recommend, but they tell me that.
Great video, just ordered both of these.
I believe I would have given the value category to the Vostok Amphibia as I can't think of any other watch anywhere near that cheap that has proven 200 meter depth capability.
It was a hard choice. There are 2 others I can think of that have 200m wr, but both have their own flaws. The Casio duro is usually $40, but it’s quartz. And there is always the invicta pro diver which is $50-80, but it’s an invicta 😎. Although I would trust the durability of the amphibia much more then those.
You can acquire a set of bezels from beveled elegant one to a ceramic, an a set of bracelet, Nato strap and elegant black leather and you are ready to go any situation
If I was a diver or even liked to swim and needed a bezel that tells me color, I’d go Vostok. Since I’m more interested in quickly reading accurate time I’ll go with Seiko but will probably get a Vostok just for fun as well...
Uniqueness - The Seiko 5 does have a story of sorts.
I bought a Speedmaster partly because if it's history - As an engineer I love it. BUT I didn't know that Gene Kranz, Flight Director of the Apollo missions wore a Seiko 5 movement based watch which made me absolutely want one. They are relatively inexpensive although I'm not sure if Seiko are discontinuing the 5 as it doesn't appear in the UK catalogue now. So I think the Seiko does have a little more pedigree than you mention, but it is subjective. Saying that, I guess that the three guys that probably saved a few hundred thousand lives after the Chernobyl disaster by diving into a radioactive water reservoir on a suicide mission (Alexei Ananenko, Valeri Bezpalov and Boris Baranov) were most likely wearing Bostoks. Speculation on my part, however.
I'm also waiting for a Bostok to arrive over the next couple of days. As with many things Russian, they tend to take their own approach regarding technology and its deployment. As a general rule Russian design is utilitarian but very well thought out in my opinion and there are a lot of cool features in the execution of the Bostock design. I remember years ago as a kid taking the back of Russian TV's and radios and the semiconductors that they used and physical design were totally different to that which Japan and Europe were producing. Pretty much bomb-proof and as I recall pretty labour-intensive in their execution.
I personally think that it is difficult to decide which timepiece is better; for me it's quirkiness of some designs, history and in some cases absolute quality and execution of design.
That's the enjoyment of watch collecting - Your collection is a personal thing and you buy pieces for your own reasons and for your own enjoyment.
Next purchase for me is going to be a Seamaster - NOT James Bond themed, but a standard watch and as with all of my watches bar a couple will be either on leather or a NATO strap.
Thanks for sharing the video!
Very interesting story. I didn't know that. The Seiko 5s must of been relatively new back during the Apollo days at nasa. Thanks for sharing it.
My father was an electrical engineer who worked for the US Navy during the Cold War. One of the reasons I've always been fascinated with the different engineering design philosophy between the West and the East.
Thanks for the information you shared about Chernobyl and what Alexei Ananenko, Valeri Bezpalov and Boris Baranov did. I never knew. It seems that the more I learn about watches, the more I learn about everything else.
Stainless steel case and back on the Amphibia.
Brass crown on the Amphibia. Easily changed to a stainless steel one bought from Meranom. com. Chrome plated brass case on the Vostok Komandurskie.
Very well made. Please do make more head to head videos like this. It is very imformative and enjoyable to watch
Thanks. I have another comparison video filmed, just have to edit it. But I don't think its too exciting, just comparing the Tobollo weekender clone I got, to the real thing. But I'll plan on doing some more. Thanks for watching.
Just recieved my green seiko ...not bulky Smooth strap..not heavy.... beutiful......bertucci is another one been looking at
I love both vatches but vostok is a greater value for me. I love vostok corown it is so unique and cool. Also if you buy amfibia you can make a bit of money as well when you resell it
Another point is, you can go to all kinds of vostoks for similar dollars, all kinds if variety. But with Seiko you move up in price quickly. My Seiko straps of 70’s & 80’s were just like the vostoks except lighter & thinner, and removed all the hair on your wrist by pulling each hair out individually.
They're both competent automatics, but with completely different 'personalities'... kinda like dating the 'nice' gal with Straight A's, vs the artsy Goth chick with a preference for Vodka!
The vostok has a much better value, for its price it is a very durable dive watch, other dive watches are much more expensive.
If I'm not mistaken, the.Vostok Automatic movement is hand windable and hackable.. Both features are pretty much a requirement for a field watch.. Which is what the Seiko is pretending to be but isn't.. The screw down crown and 200m rating is just icing on the cake..
I have both. My SNK is in the cream color which I love. I find lately I've been wearing my Vostok more though. I love the look. I have the the 120512 which I prefer over the 'scuba dude' featured in this video. Nice video! Sub'd.
Can’t beat Seiko reliability but the acrylic glass of the Vostok beats it as scratches can be polished out easily
I enjoyed your video and it was well done. However, you might have compared the Komandirskie to the Seiko in that they are closer in type and function. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Thanks! I actually had a komandirskie on order when I started making this video. And I though about stopping, and waiting for it, as they are both field watches. Main reason I didn't, was because I remembered that most komandirskies, at least the most popular version, is mechanical not automatic.
Although I'm planing on doing a follow up on this at some point. I'm just not sure if It will be snk vs komandarskie. Or Amphibia vs a dive watch. Amphibia vs SKX would be the obvious choice, but I'm not sure that's fair, as the skx is about 3x the cost of the amphibia.
Thanks again!
I'm wearing mine now and it's an automatic. Virtually the same movement as the watch you reviewed, just fewer jewels and the date window is at the 3 o'clock position.
I bought off ebay for about £3 a Xi that has that exact green canvas strap on it save the metal is not brushed although in the listing it was shown with a brushed metalwork, its actually for a super cheap Chinese watch quite good with a three day window and a full dial luminosity that holds the light well over 5 mins. The Seiko looks like a low end Sekonda Xpose, I actually have just the one I am thinking of, brushed metal case, same colour of dial and the velcro loop strap is from the same material in that same green too, Seiko's should always look purposeful in my mind and the SNK805 looks incredibly cheap imho. For myself I am giving one of them Tevise's a go, heard their automatic movements ain't bad at all.
Without a doubt, the Vostok is sturdier and more durable, look at the Seiko's crown as it is difficult to handle for the adjustments, since the Vostok's is the ideal size.
The crown on the SNK is my biggest annoyance. It's nice that it's tucked in. But adjusting it is a pain.
As an owner of both, I'd go with the Seiko every time. The problem with the Vostok is the plastic crystal. It scratches very easily.
The polymer crystal is the biggest limitation. Some people love it as they can fix it or replace it easily. But I'd rather just avoid scratches to begin with.
Imo the Vostok is the watch you get when you know what you’re getting into. And if one want to recommend a one of these two to a person who is new to mechanical watches, then I would go with a Seiko 5
That's a good take on it. Although these days it's a lot harder to get a Vostok.
regardless that you did the best presentation on both, I think it is not fair to compare two different watches, Sir. Vostok clearly a dive watch, design to be though enough for more extreme abuse while that Seiko is I believe more a daily general use watch. I think you should compare Vostok with Seiko entry dive watch with the same specs. Just my opinion :)
You have a very valid opinion. And if you look at some of the other comments. Your not alone.😉
So for myself, I think its ok to do a comparison if I can think of a reason, or situation someone may actually be looking at the two. So in this case I think it's more about price, and for a person who may be new to watches. And want's their first automatic, and may not have a preference of dive vs field.
In my case, this actually came up as I wanted to get my nephew a good watch for his 16th birthday. So these were two that I came up with, as they are close in price.
I ordered a vostok komandarski right before I started making this. And I came close to not making this video, and waiting until the komandarski arrived. So it would be a field vs field watch comparison. But the komandarski I ordered is mechanical, not automatic.
So as I said, you have a valid opinion, as I had the same thought myself before making it. But in the end, I'm glad I made it. And I think it's doing well. If nothing else it's gotten some good interactions and comments from people. Even when they don't agree with the conclusion.
As for the vostok vs seiko diver is a good idea. One of these days I'll get my hands on a seiko skx, but right now I dont.
Thanks for watching, and subscribing.
Gugun Arief you can turn the vostok into field watch. I did, just order plain bezel from meranom & put on nato. And there you are. Total cost maybe $30.00
#Vince yeah do you even know what a field watch is? How the fuck does something as big as this vostok would turn into a field watch? The guy in the video mentioned that he bumped that shit into anything you can imagine while wearing it due to its big size, field watches are known mostly for being small and comfortable to wear as they can get in your way otherwise, ever shot a gun?
Wolvie yes I do. And it works. There is no concern about the size of vostok. What official rule states otherwise. Let me help you with that, NONE. The Seiko is not actually a field watch either, its a small version of a Type A fleiger aviator watch. Early field watches often had simple arabic numbers & simple dial. Some new field watches are not much differencein size. You don’t seem to present facts.
Wolvie take a look at some Marathons. Not all small. The vostok is comfortable, and the vostok was issued to russian combat groups.
that amohibia looks amazing, maybe just repaint the red dots orange, shame they are so rare to find here in mexico
I know that this is an old video but to me a seiko watches is more of a watch to wear dressing up and vostok watches are more of a workhorse but can also be an interesting conversation piece when dressing up. I own a Komandirskie with the 24 hour movement and the date at the 6 o'clock
This is true. I've long since sold the Seiko, but still have the Vostok. Those komandirskie's with the 24 hour movement are interesting.
I have the green Seiko 5, and I also have a Raketa Copernicus and a Vostok dress Neptune that I love. I like the Russian watches for their aesthetics--their functionality is quite frustrating, to be honest, and their value isn't great. But they run, and have very unique faces. The Seiko 5 is an unbeatable value for its quality.
I would also disagree about fixing watches. Any of my Russian or Seikos would go to a watch repair store before I threw them away for malfunctioning. Part of the joy of collecting watches is maintaining them for decades--even possibly passing them on to future generations.
Sorry for the late reply. Sentimental value is the tricky thing. Financially it may not make sense, but if you love it and are attached to it then you have to do what you have to do.
I have an old watch that was my dad. It’s been dead for years and multiple places have told me it wouldn’t be worth it to fix. Yet I won’t get rid of it. Been slowly trying to fix it myself. The trick is that it’s quartz and uses an uncommon movement that isn’t available anymore. Picked up one donor watch to try and fix it, but it’s movement was also dead.
Another competitor--the Orient Tristar line. Lots of colorways, wide availability, infamously mediocre bracelet (for most models), non-hacking, non-manual movement. Essentially a dress watch, but on some straps can be a casual or sports watch. I have an SNK805 and a Tristar, but no Vostok of any kind. A Vostok is going to join my modest, nothing-over-$350 collection sometime in 2022, but there are so many choices! I'll likely get mine from an Amazon seller (at about a 20-30% premium) so if it arrives in a bad state, I can easily return it.
I agree with the points. I have an Amphibia because I needed water resistance and bezel from a dirt cheap beater watch. It's perfect at fulfilling those requirements but far from perfect overall. The lume is terrible while the accuracy and short power reserve annoy me.
I think the Amphibia SE models have slightly better lume, but they are still using the same movement. Thanks for watchin!
My favorite is the SNK, why? Simple, the size is perfect for me and the big possibilities to mod the watch.
Thanks for commenting. Lots of dial and bezel options when moding a Vostok, but the weak point are hands. Not nearly as many options as Seiko.
If it breaks you're just going to buy a new one? Then get a quartz, the whole point of an automatic is to get a watch that lasts a lifetime, the cost shouldn't matter, I would never replace the movement in an auto, it gets repaired, period.
I'd go with Vostok. I don't want to worry about washing my hands and having water under the watch's glass.
Never had that problem with my SNK 807 no matter what the rating suggests mine has not been babied and has been fully submerged with no problems what so ever. Not diving but swimming seems to be fine for mine.
At least you know when buying 2nd hand with a Vostok, you don't have to worry if previous owner changed date with hour hand in 'Danger Zone'
This is true.
@@RelativeTime Thankyou for your reply. Another great review. 👍
I’m getting both...I dont like this particular Vostok dial bit I am getting one. It has amazing heritage and is supposed to be built like a tank.
In Feb. 2019, I paid 83 on Amazon. price going up still i guess.
It's hard to say. They fluctuate so much. Not sure why.
The seiko isn't rated to dunk under water 🤣
Great job reviewing these watches. I own both watches and fully agree with you. Quite frankly my Invicta watches with their Seiko hackable and windable movements plus 200m water resistance are a far better value than either one of these watches. Buying direct from the Invicta web site the cost was only $68 including shipping. The Vostok watches have real character and that is my main reason for keeping a few in my collection. Not the most reliable, but still fun to own. Thanks for a very professional review. I'm now a subscriber!
Thanks! Very true, the invicta Pro driver with the Seiko movement is one of the best values you can find. Around black friday last year, Amazon had them for $55. I hope they do it again this year.
Sorry, Invicta is just shit. Sometimes it does not matter how good the case is finished or the quality of the movement inside, or if they start making them in solid gold. It is the fact they are copies of Rolex. Get it? No soul. There is no comparison.
Well you could say the same thing about every subby homage, and everyone who makes one. Which is a whoooole lot of watches and companies.
I look at subby homages a little different then most enthusiasts. Since there are so many people making them, I look at them as a type of watch, a sub classification of dive watch. With Rolex being the original and best. The best way to describe what I mean, is to look at a very different industry. Firearms.
Colt is the original manufacture of the m1911 (with the legendary John Moses Browning being the designer). The design was ahead of it's time, and was the primary sidearm for the US military for over 70 years. It became, and is iconic. Over that time that patent expired, and people started making their own versions. Originally they called them copies, not homages. But with the same connotation that they were completely inferior to the originals made by Colt.
Yet over time, more and more companies started making 1911s. Today, practically every major firearm company makes a 1911. There are even boutique companies that exist who make hand made, high end 1911s. Somewhere along the way, people stopped calling them copies and it just became a type of firearm. A sub classification of handguns that are known as 1911s.
People still hold the original colt's with high regard. Yet they don't consider the others any less for not baring that name, but regard them on their own merits.
Relative Time No, your comparison is far-fetched, firearms are bare tools, not made with any esthetic intention in mind (eventual decorations don’t change this). Rolexes stopped being tools long time ago (Gold dive watch? Preposterous) Copies try to capture the glamour but end up being pure kitsch.
As I said, just my opinion from looking at what I see as interesting parallels from two iconic products. Although be it from two very different industries. But let me stress, that I only see this with the Submariner. Not all homages, or all Rolexs. It's the only time piece I can think of that it so iconic, it has inspired a whole sub industry who's mission is to copy it. But Regardless, thanks for watching and the interesting conversation.
I have Seiko Snkl43 as my everyday watch. The next one is gonna be either Vostok Amphibia or Seiko SKX 009. 😍
The snkl43 has a beautiful blue design. Hows the lume on it?
Relative Time Well I haven't tested it yet as I work in the office where the light is kinda dim. Anyways, the brightness is awesome and it is fairly easy to reaad but as I said, I wear it in the office so It didnt see much of a daylight so I can't really tell the duration of the lume. The lume isn't even the number one feature on Seiko 5 dress watches tho, they are kinda dressy and they are not supposed to have a long lasting lume. If you need a watch only for its lume feature if yoh work in dim conditions Id suggest you SKX line, they are divers and their lume is granted to last you several hours at least. As for SNKL 43 it looks dope lol, the design of the case, the finishing, dial and 3 needle shaped hands it looks like 300 € watch for sure. Same goes for SNKL41. The bracelet is God awfull its noisy it squeaks like a mouse every single time you move your wrist but the watch itself is amazing.
I got the vostok first... then the snk...803 version... the seiko is the better of the two for an everyday watch... but tbe vostok is for sure more robust.... i wouldnt think twice about swimming with it... the seiko not so mich...
My Seiko SNK only lasted seven years before it started acting up. Every now and then it will work for a week or so before it craps out again.
@clam digger Not worth it.