Sunday, December 30, 2018

Seiko Yellow Digital Wall/Mantlepiece Clock QHL073Y - Fashionably Quirky, A Review

A few months ago I bought a cute digital desk clock by Seiko in collaboration with Coca-Cola (see the review here). A larger model which you can also hang on the wall is now available and I was able to get one. The QHL073Y is bright yellow and looks very much like the clock at the end of the finishing line at an Olympic athletics sports event.

The rectangle digital clock is larger than the standard you get and put on your bedside table. It is 125 mm tall and 50 mm thick. From left to right it measures 290 mm and weighs in at 510 gm. Half the front surface of the clock is taken up by the LCD screen while the other half is left empty except for the large print of the brand in black. The clock casing is painted yellow and made out of plastic.

The clock comes in two operate pieces. One consists of the clock itself while the other is the metal legs. The metal legs slots into two slits cut into the clock at the back.

The clock is powered by two AA batteries. It also comes with a DC jack input minus the plug and wires (sold separately) . The functionality of the watch is rather simple. Apart for the time and calendar, it has a countdown module which can be turned on or off.

Saturday, December 22, 2018

Seiko Prospex Diver 300m Marinemaster SLA019J1 Deep Forest Limited Edition (or SBDX021) - Desirable as a Collectable, A Review (plus Video)

I finally able to complete the mechanical set of The 1968 Mechanical Divers 50th Anniversary Commemorative Collection by Seiko.

This year, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1968 hi-beat diver model 6159-7001, the first diver’s watch with a hi-beat automatic calibre, Seiko introduced three modern divers that pay homage to this icon. Up to this point I was able to collect the first and third in the series; the limited edition Prospex Diver 300m Hi-Beat SLA025 (or SBEX007) with calibre 8L55 and the Prospex Diver 200m SPB077 (or SBDC061) with calibre 6R15. Today, I finally snared the second of the series, the limited edition Prospex Diver 300m 'Marinemaster' SLA019 (or SBDX021) Deep Forest with calibre 8L35. This watch is officially known as 'The 1968 Automatic Diver's Commemorative Limited Edition'.

Originally I wasn't looking at getting the SLA019 for the collection. My view then was that it was too similar to the SBDX001 300m Marinemaster which is already a member of the collection. However, after having laid my eyes on an actual piece recently, I was taken by beauty of the dial colour and the use of zirconia ceramic for the bezel. Couple with the sapphire crystal to protect the dial, this combination is something that I have been searching for a long time in a Seiko professional dive watch.  Unfortunately, this realisation only came to me in November 2018 when examples of this limited edition timepiece were already shipped to distributors in August 2018! The likelihood of getting one appears thin as rave reviews about the watch have already flooded the internet since it was presented to the public back in Baselworld 2018 which was held in March 2018.

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Buy/Sell Recommendation: Seiko SARB017 Alpinist – BUY

I did a review on the Seiko SARB017 Alpinist a number of years ago. The read the full review, please click here: http://easternwatch.blogspot.com/2013/10/seiko-sarb017-alpinist-very-refined.html.

Below is a video of the watch on my wrist. After considering the positives and negatives of the watch, I recommend that this watch is a BUY. For more on the positives and negatives as well as my final thoughts, please refer to the information provided after this video.



Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Head-To-Head: Seiko 62MAS remake SBDC053 versus Seiko 6159-7001 remake SBDC061

During Baselword 2017 and Baselword 2018, Seiko decided to present a series of re-interpretation of their famous dive watch icons, the 62MAS and 6159-7001, respectively. Using the latest manufacturing technologies, materials and movements, Seiko was able to offer new iconic styled watches to fans. This strategy has been well received by Seikonistas all over the globe (<L> is the SBDC053; <R> is the SBDC061 - please click the photos below for the links to the written reviews).



Tuesday, November 27, 2018

Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive Professional Diver 1000M Titanium BN7020-09E Solarzilla - The Ultimate Tool Watch, A Review (plus Video)

In my collection I have the 2002-introduced Promaster 1000m (Reference NH6931/NH6930) nicknamed the “Autozilla”. In 2017, when I heard that Citizen was pulling all the stops to come out with something spectacular for Baselworld 2107, I was curious to see the great reveal.

Citizen did not disappoint. The Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive Professional Diver 1000m (Reference BN7020-09E) is the world’s first solar-powered saturation capable diving watch. It is also Citizen’s second 1,000 meter diver. This watch is one of the few watches that can be define as an extreme dive watch. It is capable of exceptional depth and not suited for formal wear. It has been given the nickname “Solarzilla”.

The Solarzilla follows the design philosophy of its predecessor, the Autozilla. Slightly larger than the Autozilla, the Solarzilla is different in a few aspects. First, it is an Eco-Drive instead of automatic. Second, the new diver comes with an additional locking system that has a visual indication to show when the timing bezel is unlocked. Third, the addition of a power reserve reserve indicator.

Sunday, November 18, 2018

Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO 1000m Automatic H78585333 - One of the Most Comfortable Deep Divers Around, A Review (plus Video)

In 2015, Hamilton launched the Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO 1000m Automatic H78585333 to be featured in the Hollywood blockbuster movie The Martian on the wrist of the hero, Mark Watney played by Matt Damon. The BeLOWZERO has a futuristic feel to the design which fits in nicely with the movie tie-in. It has the typical black-out military styling with the casing, dial, Arabic numerals, hands, bezel and everything else except the numerals on the date wheel either in black or in various shades of grey. Although paired with a rubber strap straight from the box, the watch does come with a stainless steel bracelet that you can replace by using a strap replacement tool provided as well.

Although I took note of its existence, I did not put in on my priority list then. However, much later I started to see that the specifications of the watch does not correspond to the price demanded. In fact, the watch was underpriced in my opinion. Think about it: dive watch with 1,000 meter water rating; automatic HEV system; sapphire crystal; PVD case surface; a strap and a bracelets as options; Swiss made; ETA 2826 Caliber; and a strap replacement tool - all for just RM6,080.00 MSRP in Malaysia.

Friday, November 9, 2018

Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage GMT Reference AL-555LNS4H6 Sunset Blue - My Example has a Quality Issue, A Review (plus Video)

I saw Gnomon Watches of Singapore putting up for sale the Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage GMT last month. I tried getting one but was unsuccessful. Recently, the merchant re-listed another one under the series, the reference AL-555LNS4H6 nicknamed Sunset Blue. I quickly made my order and within 24 hours it was on my desk.

On Gnomon Watches, the watch was listed at USD1,080.00. The MSRP is EUR1,295.00. I was able get it for RM4,674.11.

The watch is a tonneau shaped watch casing with hidden lugs, two crowns, boxed crystal, leather strap, three hands, GMT function and date wheel.

The watch has a vintage feel to it. For those of you that prefer the classic look, the Pilot Heritage GMT has all the trappings.

Alpina has a long history of watch making. It had its golden age and it also suffered under the Quartz Crisis in the 1970s and early 1980s. Close to collapsing, Alpina was able to weather the storm and today, the brand is revitalising its name with many interesting offerings. To read more about the brand, please refer to the book about Alpina at the end of this posting.

Thursday, October 25, 2018

CITIZEN Promaster TSUNO Chronograph Racer Eco-Drive Limited Edition 100th Anniversary Model AV0077-82E - Bullhead Fame, A Review (plus Video)


The year 2018 marks Citizen Watch Company's 100th year of operation. To commemorate this key milestone, the Company released a series of unique, vintage-inspired bullhead chronograph called the Tsuno Chronograph Racer, at Baselworld 2018 watch fair. The inspiration behind the series was the 1973 Challenge Timer Tsuno Chrono (or “horned chronograph” in Japanese). For more about the series, please refer to a special dedicated section at the end of this review.

What caught my attention was a special 100th Anniversary Model, the AV0077-82E which was not part of the original quartet launched during Baselworld 2018 back in March 2018. This special limited edition is an all black PVD version with matching bracelet. To be honest, I would have gone for the blue dial version but considering the significance of the milestone it honours, I decided on the AV0077-82E.

I found one on SeiyaJapan for USD748.00 or RM3,216.24 (at the time of purchase). Unfortunately, the package was subjected to local taxes which added another RM175.45 (inclusive of RM19.10 administrative fees) to the total.

Friday, October 19, 2018

SEIKO Automatic Presage SARY055 (JDM reference)/SRP527 (International reference) - Value For Money Dress Watch, A Review (plus Video)

In the last few watch acquisitions, I was focused on getting the various standards of "Snowflakes" available within the broad repertoire of Seiko's timepieces. Through the various series and sub-lines, Seiko was able to provide designs of similar concept at different price ranges so as to fit  customers' affordability. While researching for the information on my "Snowflakes" project, I happened to notice watches that can be classified as "Baby GS". Instead of being too specific, I am more keen to focus of "white dial bracelet watches" as a collection criteria.

After going through my collection I realised that I have 9 of Seiko timepieces with such criteria. Today I added another into the pile; the Presage SARY055.

The Merchant

I sourced this example from SeiyaJapan. The MSRP is YEN41,040 (including taxes) but SeiyaJapan priced at USD294.00 which is equivalent to RM1,261.64 at the point of purchase. Unfortunately, Malaysian Customs will add another 5% plus some administrative fee for watch imports which in this case amounted to RM80.15 (of which RM19.10 was for the paperwork).

Friday, October 12, 2018

Victorinox Swiss Army INOX Mechanical Blue Bracelet Reference 241835 - A Capable Refined Timepiece with Limitations, A Review (plus Video)

As you know, I originally separated my watch collection into two blogs, one for watches made in the West while the other for watches made in the East. Due to the inconsistency and unbalance nature  of acquiring watches for the collection, it would appear my http://westernwatch.blogspot.com blog is not getting similar traction as this particular blog. As such, I have decided to consolidate all my reviews, whether it is Eastern or Western made watches, into this blog instead from this point onward. The existing reviews on http://westernwatch.blogspot.com will remain for reference.

When the first INOX (it is actually spelt as I.N.O.X. but for the purpose of this review I will write it down without the periods) was launched in 2014, I willed myself to wait for a mechanical version to appear. As the years progress, I actually lost hope that Victorinox will ever come out with an automatic caliber timepiece. Many reviewers have the assumption that such possibility is remote if Victorinox wants to maintain the 'indestructibility' quality of the INOX. No mechanical movement is deemed able to withstand the myriad of tests that an INOX is expected to endure. Before anyone accuses me of being a quartz-phobic, I am not. I do collect quart watches (see the list of quartz watches in the collection here). My preference is solar or kinetic powered timepieces because only these kind of quartz watches do not need periodic battery replacement. For me, an INOX would be better suited as a solar powered timepiece instead of battery powered. The though of always opening the case-back after every two-year cycle is too intrusive in my view. The integrity of the INOX can be put into question after every cycle. Do note that in the instruction manual for the quartz INOX, it is recommended that a maintenance service should also be done during a battery change.

Friday, October 5, 2018

Seiko Coca-Cola Desk Clock QHL901R - A Cute Novelty Timepiece, A Review

While browsing in one of my favorite watch shop, I happened to stumble upon a desk clock from Seiko made in collaboration with Coca-Cola. On further investigation, I found that that Seiko and Coca-Cola teamed up together in 2017 to create a series of timepieces to celebrate to two great brands. It would seem that the two companies had a similar history. At exactly the same time as Kintaro Hattori was planning to open his Seikosha factory and to create his first ever wall clock, a pharmacist in Atlanta, Georgia created a drink that would soon sweep the world.

Celebrating the history of the two parties, the clock series comprised of wall and alarm clocks, which all display a distinct retro styling. Coke’s iconic glass bottle and classic red, white and black color scheme serve as the visual elements while Seiko’s precision timing module serve as the engine of the clocks.

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Seiko Presage Automatic "Baby GS Snowflake 2" Limited Edition International Ref. SJE073 or JDM Ref. SARA015, The Best Reinterpretation of an Icon - A Review (plus Video)

When the Seiko Presage Automatic "Baby GS Snowflake 2" Limited Edition Ref. SJE073 (International reference)/SARA015 (JDM reference) was showcased at Baselworld 2018, I was hooked. It immediately became another 'grail' watch for me. Why a 'grail' watch you might ask? The likelihood of me snaring one of the only 1,881 examples made is slim considering how beautiful it is.

In many reviews, the SJE073/SARA015 has been given the nickname "Baby GS Snowflake". This nickname was already given to the SARX055 last year. It is not fair to strip it from the incumbent just because this looks closer to the GS Snowflake. I prefer to give the nickname "Baby GS Snowflake 2" to the SJE073/SARA015. I will provide a justification on this later.

This new Presage introduced an all new Seiko caliber, the 6L35. The new caliber is thinner and more accurate compared to the commonly used base caliber for Presage, the 6R15. The dimensions of the watch also took advantage of the thinner movement to make for a much thinner watch casing.

The photos of the watch taken at Baselworld 2018 and via the press kit provided by Seiko wetted my appetite even more. When Gnomon Watches sent me a product update newsletter with the SJE073/SARA015 available at the store, I jumped at the opportunity to get one.

The MSRP in Japan is listed at YEN240,000 (before taxes). Gnomon Watches listed it at USD2,100 which is equivalent to RM8,994.75 at the point of purchase. The purchasing experience is smooth as silk and the watch was on my desk in 48 hours.

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Sodynee WBPU12-03 Watch Display Box Organizer, 12 Slots - Cheap Yet Elegant Way to Display Your Collection, A Review

I decided to get another watch-box so that I can keep some of my watches in a more systematic way. There are options in terms of the number of slots but for my requirement, I chose one with 12 slots. I found one on Amazon that came with artificial black leather and a glass top.

The price quoted was also quite reasonable. It was listed at USD16.99 (plus USD25.71 for shipping and import fees). This equates to RM206.69 (product: RM74.73; shipping: RM113.18; import fees: RM18.78).

Within five days the package was on my desk.

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Seiko Sport Automatic Infantry SRPC85 (similar to SRPC87 & SRPC89) - More Fashion Than Action, A Review (plus Videos)


The Infantry Watch or military watch (also called a Field watch) is one of my favourite collection theme genre. Unlike dive watches, military watches, especially for the infantry corp is more versatile. With its much smaller dimensions, it can be used in many more instances such as formal or office wear.

My ideal infantry watch must have a symmetrical dial with minimal disruption to the various markers. One major gripe I have with a lot of infantry watch models available today is the location of the date and day aperture(s). Most often, it replaces a luminous hour marker which disrupt the visual presentation in daylight as well as nighttime. As such, a simple analogue 3-hand infantry without any other complications is sufficient for me.

However, when I saw the SRPC85, I got interested despite it having a date aperture. The placement of the date aperture at 6 o'clock gives it a different feeling while making the dial more symmetrical.

I got the watch from AWG in Midvalley Megamall for RM820. The MSRP in Kuala Lumpur is RM1,165.

Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Seiko 5 Sports "Bottlecap" SRPC61 (similar to SRPC63, SRPC65 & SRPC67) - A Refreshing Design, A Review (plus Videos)

I can't remember whether I have said this thing before but I am annoyed with Seiko's public relation strategy on the Seiko 5 range, specifically the lack of a define promotional plan for all the new offerings. Followers are forced to actively look at watch forums or third party blog postings to get a whiff of new stuff coming out of Seiko's factories.

This is one instance that I was caught off-guard. I caught a glimpse of the watch in a shop display stand and I was immediately smitten by it. I didn't even know Seiko has such a model ready for shipment and yet it is already delivered to its dealers (in Malaysia definitely, can't say for sure other parts of the world though).

Anyway, Seiko, if you are reading this, please come out with a formal process of announcing to your legion of fans new offerings with all the necessary information package like stock photos, specification sheets and product description at the very least. If you can do it for your Prospex and Presage, you can do it for your Seiko 5.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

ORIENT "President" Classic Automatic Sapphire Watch EV0J003B - A homage most regal, A Review (plus Video)


A famous Roman soldier called Marcus Aurelius (121AD - 180AD) was accredited to have said, "To refrain from imitation is the best revenge". Unfortunately, in the world of horology, making a homage is rather common and reflects a strong respect to iconic designs that appears evergreen throughout the ages. Although Orient is one of the few watch manufacturers in the world with the complete production capabilities including in-house movements, it did not stop the brand from creating homages. Of the homages created, one stands out. The Rolex Day-Date, also known as the "President" is a fitting iconic piece for a homage and Orient nailed it perfectly.

There are eight models with different tones and colours for the dial, watch casing and bracelet as part of Orient's homage to the Rolex "President". I chose the reference EV0J003B with clean stainless steel casing and bracelet with black dial. Bought it from Amazon for USD339.00 plus USD25.00 for courier which totals to RM1,582.62. A discount was given by the retailer in the form of a shipping refund of RM108.70 and an item refund of RM43.48. Overall, the net total cost was just RM1,430.44. Below was the email that I received.

Friday, August 10, 2018

Seiko Criteria Automatic SRPC73K1 "Submersible" (similar to SRPC69K1, SRPC71K1, SRPC75K1 & SRPC77K1) - Stylish yet basic, A Review (with Videos)

The Seiko Criteria line has never caught my attention until now. The range has traditionally been viewed as having a flashy yet sporty styling. Powered by quartz technology (battery and solar), the line's most common complication is the chronograph function.

For 2018, Seiko decided to add a simpler design to Criteria's repertoire. Powered with a basic automatic movement, the three handed timepieces come only with day and date complications as well as a display case-back. Importantly, the glass is sapphire crystal for the extra touch of quality.

When I saw it for the first time, I did a quick search on the internet about this particular line but nothing came up. The only information I was able to get is the reference number of the 5 timepieces that makes up this particular series under the Criteria line. Out of the five, I find the SRPC73K1 to be the most catching of the lot and I immediately took possession of one.

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Seiko Prospex SLA025J1 (or SBEX007) Hi-Beat 300 Meter Limited Edition Dive Watch - A new love affair, A Review (plus Video)

In 2017, Seiko re-issued its iconic dive watch, the 62MAS in the form of the SLA017 (or SBDX019). This year the brand celebrates the 50th anniversary of another icon, the first hi-beat dive watch, the Seiko 1968 Reference 6159-7001. This original watch was very significant in many ways. In that year, Seiko released a diver that had doubled its dive rating, drastically increased legibility and timing precision, added an automatic movement, and offered an innovative and unique design. It wasn’t the first Seiko diver, but it was definitely the most consequential, and helped lay the groundwork for many future iconic models from the brand.

When it was presented at Baselworld 2018, I was very excited and it immediately joined my 'must have' list. I started to put my name down on a number of waiting lists managed by friendly Seiko authorised dealers. Since this is a limited edition model with only 1,500 units, demand is expected to be fierce and to hedge my bets, I got on a few waiting lists. The first that calls me will get my business.

Thursday, July 19, 2018

Seiko Prospex JDM Baby Marinemaster 200 Meter Diver SBDC061 (similar to SBDC063 or SPB077/SPB079) - Similar to a Seiko Sumo, A Review (plus Video)

My trip to Japan in June 2018 has been very memorable. I visited for the first time, Fukuoka, capital of Fukuoka Prefecture that sits on the northern shore of Japan’s Kyushu Island. To commemorate the occasion, I decided to get myself a Japanese watch. Inside the Yodobashi Camera superstore in Hakata, Fukuoka City, I found a Seiko that was launched in Baselworld 2018.

The watch is the Seiko Prospex JDM Diver SBDC061. This watch has the International reference SPB077 when sold outside Japan. Similar to SBDC063 (or SPB079), the watch has been dubbed 'Baby Marinemaster' by Seikonistas. I got the watch on 19 June 2018 for just YEN82,633 after taking into consideration store discounts.

The SBDC061 is the more affordable modern reinterpretation of the famous Seiko 6159-7001 diver. The reference 6159-7001  diver was the first Seiko Professional diver (where the PROSPEX line was born) first released 50 years ago in 1968. The 6159-7001 was the first Seiko diver to bear the marking “Professional” on the dial. Seiko did also issue a much closer reinterpretation of the Seiko 6159-7001, the SBEX007 (internationally known as the SLA025) but that particular model is a limited edition and the specifications (as well as the price!) is very high-end.

Thursday, July 5, 2018

Seiko Presage Chronograph SRQ025J1 (similar to SARK011) - It has that formal ambiance and sophistication that not many watches have in its price range, A Review (plus Video)

I finally snared a 8R48 powered Presage!

There are 7 Presage watches in my collection currently. All automatic with either the 4R series or 6R series automatic movements. The SRQ025J1 will be the first chronograph Presage in the collection. Not easy getting this as the local distributor in Malaysia, Thong Sia, tend to not bring watches deemed 'too expensive' for local consumers. Even if they do bring such watches, the numbers imported are usually not more than a handful.

The chronograph Presage came to prominence back in 2016 when Seiko launched the limited edition SRQ019 and SRQ021 in honour of the 60th anniversary of Seiko’s first automatic mechanical watch in 1956. The SRQ019 has a white a grand feu enamel dial while the SRQ021 has a black Urushi lacquer dial. By virtue of their special dials and limited edition run, these watches were priced at a premium which was too rich for my taste. Luckily, a year later, Seiko decided to produce a standard production run of chronograph Presage in the form of the SRQ025J1.

Thursday, June 28, 2018

SEIKO Prospex Fieldmaster LOWERCASE SBEP001 "Digi Tuna" (similar to SBEP003, SBEP005, SBEP007 & SBEP009) - A Good Start by Seiko to Make a New Niche for Itself, A Review (plus Video)

Seiko is synonymous with the tuna-styled dive watches. It has become a genre on itself and a lot of people (especially professional divers) can vouch for their reliability and effectiveness to handle the extreme of situations. There have never been a fully digital Tuna before but this year, Seiko decided to spring five models under the new SBEP nomenclature.

Made in collaboration with the Japanese design consultants LOWERCASE, Seiko is able to bring something fresh and exciting to an otherwise  bland tuna styling that have not gone through much changes for decades. Lead by Mr. Yuki Kajiwara, creative director of LOWERCASE, the SBEP series amalgamate two important considerations by professional users - damage proof construction (the Tuna casing) and clear visual (digital display). This is not a breakthrough in concept though. There are other brands that already fulfilled this market space, for example Casio Protrek Frogman, but for Seikonstas, this is the first for Seiko.

The SBEP001 is also classified as a Fieldmaster. This nomenclature signifies the watch has been geared specifically for land explorers and adventurers. The ability to withstand 200 meters of water pressure also points to its flexibility to be used for recreational diving as well.

Since this is the first of the SBEP series, I decided to get the SBEP001 to grace the collection.

Sunday, June 24, 2018

EVANT Decodiver Fume Black Limited Production Dive Watch (similar to Decodiver Fume Sky Blue) - A Flexible Watch that can be Worn in the Sea as well as in the Boardroom, A Review (plus Video)


Evant is a relatively new brand in the world of watchmaking. It was introduced to the world in 2017 with the launch of the Tropic Diver. I was rather smitten by the design and I decided to get a piece to see for myself. The Evant Tropic Diver Fume Blue was a handsome watch (see my review on that watch here) and I was quite pleased with the first product from a startup. When Evant launched the marine bronze version of the watch, the Evant Tropic Diver Bronze Finale, I took possession of that one as well (see my review on that watch here). For that piece Evant was able to bring together the simplicity of design, the use of exotic material and rich colours into a singular package that screams value beyond the level it was sold at.

This year, after remaining silent for since the last product launching, Evant presents a new series to the market - The Decodiver.

Similar to the Tropic Diver, the Decodiver incorporates a lot of vintage dive watches genre in its overall design. The slab surfaces and short lug styling is reminiscent to the diver watches of the 1970s. Very minimalist with just the three hands and the unidirectional timing bezel as the only complications on the watch.

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Grand Seiko Watch Display Stands

A watch shop I frequent go had an extensive renovation recently. After the project was completed, they had a few display stands they wanted to get rid off. I took them instead for free. Both are branded Grand Seiko.

One is a solid metal Grand Seiko watch stand with the brand on a gold painted plate. This style is suited for both bracelet and strap watches.



Friday, June 1, 2018

Orient FDD03003Y0 Monarch Mechanical Watch (similar to: FDD03001W0 & FDD03002B0) - A Delightfully Cheap and Impressive Dress Watch, A Review (plus Video)

I have been eyeing the Orient Monarch series of watches for a number of years. Introduced in late 2015, the vintage-inspired watch was an addition to Orient's already extensive dress watch repertoire.  However, there is a slight twist in that it is powered by a mechanical winding only engine. Coupled with a domed crystal, old font markings and power reserve indicator, the watch has that old-school appeal reminiscent of the dress watches of the pre-war era.

Unfortunately, the pricing in Malaysia is rather too rich when compared to prices from internet merchants. The MSRP in Malaysia is RM1,350.00 (with GST). The best discount I could find was RM945.00. Instead,  I was able to get via Amazon.com an example for just USD193.12 (or RM 814.31) inclusive of courier and import taxes. Aramex is the courier used.

There are three examples in the Monarch line; the white dial reference FDD03003Y0, the black dial reference FDD03002B0 and the gold plated casing reference FDD03001W0. Out of the three, my favourite is the white dial and stainless steel casing FDD03003Y0. This is the example that I bought through Amazon.com.

Friday, May 18, 2018

Casio G-Shock GW-M5610BC-1JF JDM Multi Band 6 with Bracelet - A Cornerstone for Any Collector, A Review (plus Video)

Casio produces a number of G-Shock watches only for sale to the Japanese domestic market (JDM). This list of JDM G-Shocks focuses on the 5000-series such as the common DW-5600 and the GW-M5610 models.

I currently have only one G-Shock in the collection (although I listed two on this blog, the G5600-1DR is technically my son's). That is the extra-large GX-56BB-1DR which has some drawbacks due primarily to its size. Although it is a serious tool watch, it does not have the flexibility like its smaller brother, the 5600 series. Its brute bulk is its call to fame.

I need to get a 5600 series model into the collection to experience the additional flexibility of the much smaller and practical classic G-Shock. After doing my research, I decided to get one with a composite bracelet instead of the traditional resin band (like my son's). This particular model I chose has the same style of display like the big brother i.e. a reverse display - white display with black background.

Saturday, May 5, 2018

Seiko Prospex Watch Landmaster 25th Anniversary Limited Titanium Model SBEJ003 (similar to SBEJ001) - Design flaw & QC issues, A Review (plus Video)

For 2018, Seiko announced a release of a new model under the Landmaster icon, part of the Prospex series of watches. It was announced to the market just prior to Baselworld 2018. The release consists of two models, the SBEJ001 and SBEJ003. The former is the standard production model and the latter is a limited edition piece of just 500 examples. Both watches were designed to celebrate the silver jubilee or 25th anniversary of the first Landmaster.

The original Landmaster issued in 1993. It was first conceived by the legendary Seiko designer; Mr. Ikuo Tokunaga. That watch, the SBBW005 uses the AGS system (Caliber 5M23), a precursor of the Kinetic system (this system essentially converts kinetic movement into electrical energy). It had 3 days of power reserve with Day and Date as well as a power reserve indicator that doubles up as the seconds hand. Its uniqueness is having a set of emergency signal codes printed on the inner chapter ring. Apart from the compass bezel, the crown is located at the typical 3 o'clock position and a pusher at 2 o'clock to control the power reserve indicator. However, this iteration only lasted for a year before a new Landmaster, the SBCW001 was issued in 1994 that also included an additional GMT hand but minus the day function.

Friday, April 27, 2018

Seiko 5 Automatic Men Watch SNKK87 - The Cheapest of the Seiko White Knights, A Review (plus Video)


By now you would have guessed that I love white dialed watches. One of my themes for my watch collection is the Seiko White Knights series – these are Seiko watches with white dial (or part thereof), round casing, automatic or hybrid (powered by rotor), three hands, crown at 3 o’clock and paired with a bracelet. With this SNKK87, I will have five under this grouping.

This time around I decided to search via eBay. I found a seller out of Singapore and I promptly made the necessary payment. Payment was made on 9 April 2018 for RM346.67. The package arrived via normal Airmail on 23 April 2018.
 
The SNKK87 model came out in 2013. It has a case diameter of 38.0 mm without the crown and 40.5 mm with the crown. Thickness is 10.5 mm. Lug width is 20.0 mm and the lug-to-lug length is 43.0 mm. The watch is made out of 316L stainless steel with polished and brushed surfaces. It comes with a display case-back. Both the dial window and the case-back window are made out of Hardlex crystal. Paired with a stainless steel bracelet, the whole watch weighs in at slightly less than 100 grams.

Friday, April 6, 2018

Orient Triton RA-EL0002L Blue Diver – Good Size but Bracelet Sucks, A Review (plus Videos)



I was rather sad when news came out that Orient has decided to end its M-Force series. This series was Orient’s specialized heavy duty sport and diver watch line. The watches under this series are large and designed like bunkers. The bulky dimensions are necessary so as to be able to pack a lot of features in them. For a start, the M-Force series is one of the few series of watches in the world which are ISO-compliant in three standards: diving (ISO 6425), anti-magnetism (ISO 764) and shock-resistance (ISO 1413).

Unfortunately, the size is a factor that put a lot of people off from owning an M-Force. There appears to be a gradual shift in fashion where interest in 40++ mm diameter watches is waning. Due to practical reasons, people are starting to re-focus their sights on watches in the 40± mm size category. Orient has realized this shift and has taken steps to ensure they have the capacity to deliver what is demanded by the market.

Monday, March 26, 2018

Seiko Spirit Automatic SARB035 JDM – The White Knights of Seiko, A Review (plus Video)

My interest in dress or formal watches continues unabated. Today I was able to get another of the famous White Knights of Seiko, the Seiko Spirit SARB035. This design is not new. It was first made available back in 2009 under Seiko’s Spirit line. This is a line of formal dress watches less complex than the Premier line. As opposed to other models in the Spirit line, the SARB035 is completely mechanical. This is also a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) model i.e. made in Japan and sold only for the Japanese market.

Seiko is one watch brand that is synonymous with value-for-money timepieces at every price range. I have to declare up-front that I am one of the many Seikonistas that follow the brand closely and with a passion. Having said that, I do try to be objective but I guess, the readers will be the judge of that.

The SARB035 is an in-house made timepiece that is priced at YEN45,000 (MSRP in Japan). Made out of polished and brushed stainless steel, the watch casing has a diameter of 38.0 mm. It has a thickness of 11.2 mm and its lug-to-lug width is 45.0 mm. Lug width is 20.0 mm. The watch casing is paired with a stainless steel bracelet that starts at 20.0 mm at the lugs and tapers to 18.0 mm at the clasp. The clasp is signed and secured with a button lock.

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Seiko Prospex “Mini-Turtle” SRPC37K1 (Similar with SRPC35K1, SRPC39K1 and SRPC41K1) – A Winning Design, A Review (plus Video)


Seiko ended 2017 with another take of the iconic 6309 diver of yesteryear. When the brand launched the Turtle re-craft edition back in 2016 under series reference SRP77x (I got the SRP773 in the collection. See the review here: http://easternwatch.blogspot.my/2016/01/seiko-prospex-srp773-turtle-diver.html), the Seikonistas went wild with excitement. Seiko quietly listened to feedback given and decided that some of the suggestions were valid. I guess the most grouse received must have been the size issue of the SRP77x series. A good proportion of the fan base found the Turtle too big for their wrist.

To address this problem, near the end of 2017, Seiko quietly launched another interpretation of the 6309. This new series is similar in capabilities to the 2016 series apart from its dimensions and a couple of small changes. Nicknamed “Mini-Turtle”, a lot of people gave positive reviews of this new iteration. This new series is not just a scaled down model but a new version of the 6309 icon. The series comprises of four models:

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Seiko Recraft Neo Sports UFO SRPC13K1 Limited Edition (similar to SRPC15K1 & SRPC16K1) - The brand scores again, A Review (plus Video)

Seiko came out with another re-craft series. This time it is the re-interpretation of the famous UFO model of 1969; the 6106-6430. Unlike the other re-craft models, this new series uses the newer 4R36 automatic movement instead of the 7S26 and is a limited edition timepiece of just 1,969 examples per model. There are three different models to choose from. My favorite is the SRPC13K1 because of the green dial.

The "Seikomatic 5" 6100 series was a family of mechanical watch movements from Seiko in the 1960's and 1970's. Produced from 1967 through 1974, the 6100 family was used in many high-end Seiko watches. It was available in both regular 21,600 bph and high-beat 36,000 bph versions with both manual winding and automatic systems.

Below are two examples of the 6106-6430 watches which the new re-crafted series get its inspiration. Since the original model was first introduced in 1969, Seiko has decided to limit the production to just 1,969 examples (for each model under the series - more about the various model later in the review).

Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Seiko Presage Automatic Blue "Tuxedo" Ref. SARX045 - An Elegant Gentleman's Watch, A Review (plus Video)

I am really into dress watches now. Having tasted the quality and beauty of Seiko's classy dress watches from the Grand Seiko line right down to the level entry Seiko 5 line, my hunger for more is insatiable. While researching the Japanese Seiko website, I came across the SARX045, a watch under the Presage line. This particular model is a JDM hence information can only be found on the Japanese website, not on the global website.

Not a lot has been written and commented on the SARX045. As part of the Presage line under the Prestige sub-category, the SARX045 has a MSRP of YEN70,000 and has a contemporary dress watch design. Made out of stainless steel, the dial is protected by a flat sapphire crystal with inner AR coating. It has a screw-down display case-back with Hardly crystal. It's width is 39.5 mm (excluding the crown), lug width is 20.0 mm, lug-to-lug length is 48.0 mm and a height of 11.3 mm. Although the crown utilises a push-in style system, the watch is still water rated to 10 ATM or 100 meters. Powered by a Seiko automatic 6R15D movement with manual wind and seconds hand stop capabilities, the watch has a power reserve of approximately 50 hours.

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Seiko 5 Sports Stainless Steel Green Dial 'Turtle' SRPB13K1 - Clean Dial Without Clutter, A Review (plus Video)

I saw this interesting deal from Amazon the other day. For just USD144.99 or RM614.22, I could get my hands on the Seiko 5 SRPB13K1. Adding the courier and taxes changer totalling USD39.84 or RM168.77, the SRPB13K1 would be on my desk within 5 days.

In Kuala Lumpur, the MSRP is RM1,166.00 (including GST). The best price I've seen is RM935.00 although I suspect I would be able to get one for RM816.20 (30% discount). Compared to Amazon all in price of RM782.99, I've decided to get one.

The watch is part of the reissue or reinterpretation programme by Seiko on their classic watch models. The 'turtle' frame is a famous series of watches that have a strong following and the SRPB13K1 is specifically made to piggyback on that interest. Other similar reissue or reinterpretation under the 'turtle' series that I currently have are: (1) Open Heart SSA327K1, (2) Green Carbon LE SRPA89K1, (3) Sports Helmet SSA283K1.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Seiko SKX007KD (similar to SKX007K2) Professional Diver 200M with Jubilee Bracelet - Feel and Look more Valuable, A Review (with Video)

After all the years collecting iconic watches, I finally got myself the famous SKX007 with the Jubilee bracelet. Although I have the SKX009 with rubber strap (the strap disintegrated on me recently in November 2017), I always harbour the interest of one on a Jubilee bracelet.  Saw one on Amazon with a good price and I ordered it.

The specifications of the watch is similar to that of the SKX009 apart from a single colour bezel and Jubilee bracelet. If if you want to know details, do visit the review on the SKX009. The link is here:

After going through the original review of the watch I bought in 2011 (review was written in 2014), I realised that the review didn't do justice to the watch. As such, I will attempt to provide more information on this iconic timepiece.


Wednesday, January 10, 2018

Instructions by Seiko on how to Resize the Brand's various Bracelet Designs

Below is the instructions provided by Seiko in their 2017 Catalogue. I realised that a number of their bracelet designs I have yet to encounter. 
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Seiko bracelets are designed to be elegant and durable, as well as easy to adjust.
PRO TIPS
• Before “sizing,” estimate the number of links you’ll want to remove, and remove sections, rather than individual links, when you can.
• If you are only making a small adjustment, check to see if it can be made by adjusting the clasp mechanism before you start removing links.
• Save the removed links.
• Work on a flat surface so the links stay aligned.
• On expansion bracelets, remove links from near the center of the watchband.
• On clasp bracelets, remove an equal number of links from the bracelet on each side of the clasp.

Thursday, January 4, 2018

Seiko Spirit Chronograph Giugiaro Design 'Ripley Aliens' Limited Edition SCED041 - Cute and Quirky Timepiece that Speaks Volume, A Review (plus Video)

Designed by the Italian designer, Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Seiko Giugiaro 7A28-7000 is an asymmetric chronograph first seen in the movie Aliens. In fact, this watch was one of the first of the collaboration between the two powerhouses using the 7A28 movement. This caliber is famous as being the first analogue quartz chronograph movement in the world. The year was 1983. It was only in 1986 with the release of the movie 'Aliens' did the watch became insanely famous.

When it was announced in 2016 of the reissue, I was initially interested. However, the urge waned as I was more interested in mechanical watches (On hindsight, I didn't realised that I was turning into a typical 'mechanical watch snob' - everything not mechanical considered trash. Fortunately, I saw the light to the correct path for a horologist). 

The Seiko Giugiaro 'Ripley Aliens' reissues are all limited edition pieces. Due to the indecisiveness, I missed out a lot of the models on sale. I thought I would never get the chance to get one until I saw an offer by SeiyaJapan. The model reference was SCED041 and I quickly made the order. This is the second Giugiaro designed watch in the collection.

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