Meanwhile, the lume-filled rectangular hour markers, paired with this color, are a nod to the legendary 62MAS. For whatever reason, the day I received it, on my way to the market I just had to listen to some Creedence Clearwater Revival. Just how versatile can a “budget” watch get? The 42mm Seiko 5 Sports “5KX” divers are a bit larger, as dive watches typically are. Traditionally, this was so dive watches could have larger hour markers, and be more legible when divers used them underwater. Today, 42mm is no longer a “large” watch by modern standards. This is closer to the watch size you likely see on most people’s wrists. Despite having all of these features, the SSK003 manages to stay relatively thin and affordable compared to other GMT watches. And it looks great while doing so! While the watches are great, the included bracelet or strap on the older 5 models leaves a bit to be desired. The metal bands are often hollow feeling, hair-pulling, and difficult to adjust. When buying an older 5, you might want to consider that you might want to spend a bit extra to find a replacement strap down the line.

Thanks for a great, well thought out and honest review. I’ve just found your blog and I’m looking forward to reading more. I’ve worn, tested, and reviewed dozens of Seiko 5 watches, many of which are still in my collection today. They were made to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Seiko and became the go-to suggestion for new watch collectors. But over time, like most other things about this watch, not only did they grow on me, but I began to appreciate them more and more. That’s why I’ve bought this same exact watch THREE times. The Final Verdict

Its pinstripe tuxedo dial adds texture and interest to an otherwise simple and classic design. This is the perfect watch for someone who wants something simple, yet elegant and refined. I think the brushing on the bracelet kind of looks out of place – like it doesn’t belong on this watch. Especially since there are absolutely no brushed surfaces on the case to tie the look together.

The SNK366 is another gold Seiko 5, this time, with a slightly more muted gold case. The case is mostly brushed, and only has pops of bling on the polished gold bezel, and sides. And the dial has just a bit of texture, with gold-embedded “Seiko 5” badge logos throughout. But they’re very subtle, and can only be spotted up close, in the right lighting, so you’re the only person who would even notice they’re there. The 7S26 has been recently discontinued – the entry-level Seikos are being upgraded to a day-date version of the 4R35 (aka NH35A), the 4R36. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing. The 4R series is better, but this also means an increase in prices. While an upgrade is a good thing, in this case, I’d go with the “if it ain’t broken, don’t fix it” credo. The dial As long as you take care of it, avoid excessively dropping or bumping it, and avoid water damage, a Seiko 5 can last a lifetime.

Generally, the older Seiko 5 models are smaller, around 37mm, and less expensive (although prices have been creeping up recently due to exclusivity). Because of its extremely simple and clean white dial, the SNKL41 is a blank slate. This watch will look absolutely perfect on any strap and is the perfect watch to dress up with a dressy exotic leather strap or dress down with a bright and fun-colored NATO. It doesn’t have any screws, or even pushpins, like most bracelets, so sizing it can be extremely difficult.

One of the main things that can affect how a watch looks is the dial. Not only do you have to choose a dial color and layout that suits you, but also one with the right finish. Sunburst watch dials can be a bit flashy, as they vary greatly in different lighting conditions, while glossy or matte dials usually look rather neutral. While the bracelet feels rather light and cheap, I must admit, it’s rather comfortable on the wrist. The radiant blue sunburst dial of the SRPE53 compliments the polished bezel, and brushed bracelet, although this watch would look just as at home on a NATO strap or leather band. Leather? NATO? RUBBER? No problem. This watch is a strap monster, and the neutral silver-white dial means you can really have fun experimenting with different colors as well. Seiko is known for generally having very strong lume on their watches, but some of the Seiko 5 models fall short in this area.The SNXS79’s lume, however, shines bright like a torch. It helps that the hour markers are so large and bold. The first time I owned it, I liked it. But I didn’t love it. At the time, I didn’t have many other watches to compare it to. However, in practice, it’s an excellent movement. The rotor action is quiet. Sure, you can hear it, but that’s that. A considerable advantage of this one is Seiko’s Magic Lever bidirectional winding system, first introduced in 1959. It’s simply a role model for winding efficiency. As someone I know spoke of the Seiko 5, you can just rest on the couch all day, and get up only when you need to, and it’ll still give that movement just enough motion of the rotor to keep it going.

It has a 37mm diameter like many Seiko 5 models and a very condensed 42mm lug to lug dimension. This means it’ll fit comfortably on most people’s wrists without hanging over the edge, even on those with smaller wrists. No, Seiko hasn’t discontinued the Seiko 5. They are still in production, however, Seiko has no longer released any new 37mm original Seiko ‘5’ badge models. Instead, Seiko is releasing new Seiko 5 Sports watches, such as their SRPD 5KX dive watch, SRPE DressKX, SRPG field watch, and SRPH29 pilot watchmodels.The Seiko 5 Sports GMTs from Seiko change the game. They’re the most affordable automatic GMT watches you can find from a well-known brand. At 37mm, and with a crown at 3:00, the SNKL41 disappears on the wrist and is more than comfortable enough for everyday wear.