62MAS-Inspired Seiko Dive Watch

[Ryeguy]

I don't mean to get involved in the modern Rolex Sub versus Seiko SLA017 comparison (mostly due to the fact I don't have a modern Sub sitting in front of me to compare at the moment and I think such comparisons are generally silly), but I do believe there are some intrinsic value points which give the Sub an edge.

For example, the use of 904 steel versus 316 steel. 904 has corrosion resistance properties above 316. Rolex also uses precious metal in their applied indice surrounds. The Rolex has a greater depth rating and uses the trip-lock crown tube design. The modern Rolex Sub also has a better bracelet - specifically the clasp.

These small details all add up to my honestly saying the modern Rolex sub is a "better" watch than a SLA017.

To Jacob's point, one would have to be inspecting the watch with such intensity to notice these differences, or using the watch far beyond "normal" wear (to derive value from the increased depth rating or corrosion resistance).

Highlights in the SLA017's side of the equation are the more hand built nature of the watch (modern Rolex are absolutely machine assembled) and limited availability. I recall walking through the Mall of America a few years ago. At one point, I could literally see 4 competing Rolex AD's, each with Sub's in there display case. You will absolutely not see this with the SLA017.

From a functional standpoint, I prefer the SLA017's fully indexed bezel and recessed lume marker at 12. I feel these are functional improvements over the modern Sub design.

Ultimately, I choose to just enjoy my watch for what it is. Comparisons only seem to create an argument where none is needed.

[hoppyjr]

Yea, what they said!

[mtb2104]

I love wearing my SLA017 and love buying Rolex divers.

Hmmmm... I must be mad. :p

[Chocodove]

having bought my SBDX019 for $2500

Deal of the century!

[r.palace]

having bought my SBDX019 for $2500

Deal of the century!

Ballsy move by Yeff; having pre ordered when only the shitty Seiko stock pics were up

[Chocodove]

having bought my SBDX019 for $2500

Deal of the century!

Ballsy move by Yeff; having pre ordered when only the shitty Seiko stock pics were up

If there is one thing we should have all learned by now, it's never judge a Seiko by the stock pics.

[Panerai7]

Wait for 2500$ it's almost a whole different story, no?
I'd be extremely tempted if it fit me

[the_natural]

having bought my SBDX019 for $2500

Deal of the century!

Seriously!

[Torrid]

will be interesting to see if someone got both SLA and Budget MAS to compare their quality, finishing etc. Obviously minus the movement. 3500$ vs $600.

Edit: I think it would be more intriguing comparison than vs Rolex

I agree. Between the new 051/053 seems like an obvious comparison, but also against a GS and the MM300 would be interesting imo. I really want to see an MM300 in-person one of these days...

The MM300 is nice but I don't recall being absolutely struck by its finishing. To be fair mine was well used when I received it and may have affected this and while I liked the feel of the bracelet I thought the end link fit was subpar. The hour and minute hands though are a work of art. So much so that the second hand looks so basic. Loved the dial too. It's just well done without being flashy.

[Ryeguy]

I own a MM300 and the SLA017. They are different beasts, for certain, and I'm not sure a head-to-head comparison would be fair to either watch.

The case design is what attracts me to the MM300 - the beveled sides, the mix of polish and brushed surfaces - it is both intricate and purposeful. It is one of the few watches I own which has elicited positive comments from strangers, with one woman commenting "now that is a man's watch."

I doubt the SLA017 will receive the same reaction. It is of a much more basic style with a very utilitarian case design featuring straight cuts and slab sides. The SLA017 holds all of its flash in the dial, handset, crystal and bezel insert. These are all better than (or at least the equivalent of) the MM300, but the plain case design of the SLA017 almost serves to highlight these features.

IMO, the MM300 is probably the best commonly available diver someone can purchase in the $2K price range. The SLA017 is special due to its limited availability and it being a modern reinterpretation of a classic.

[59yukon01]

First video review of the SBDC051.

[spring-diver]

For those of you wondering what the 053 looks like on the bracelet.

From 3peddles_6speeds@WUS




Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[MikeyLikesIt]

Received my 053 today and I think Seiko has done well. My wrist is 6.75 and it doesn't feel obnoxiously large. Sapphire on a Seiko is also a nice change. Should get the 051 tomorrow so looking forward to trying the bracelet out.

[jswing]

First video review of the SBDC051.

That video is from the douchenugget that trashed the borrowed Rolex and then begged his viewers to pay for it.

The watch looks really good, although definitely bigger than I'd wear comfortably.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk

[jswing]

For those of you wondering what the 053 looks like on the bracelet.

From 3peddles_6speeds@WUS




Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Now that makes sense, black on rubber and blue on bracelet.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk

[Chocodove]

The bracelet looks great. Kinda wish I had it for my blue. Although then it would probably wear even larger.

[59yukon01]

First video review of the SBDC051.

That video is from the douchenugget that trashed the borrowed Rolex and then begged his viewers to pay for it.

The watch looks really good, although definitely bigger than I'd wear comfortably.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk

Did not know that, not that I paid attention to the name anyway.

[jswing]

First video review of the SBDC051.

That video is from the douchenugget that trashed the borrowed Rolex and then begged his viewers to pay for it.

The watch looks really good, although definitely bigger than I'd wear comfortably.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk

Did not know that, not that I paid attention to the name anyway.

Still a good video, shows off the watch nicely. But I can't watch his videos now without associating him with that Rolex situation. Once I realized it was him, I just muted it.

Sent from my LG-K425 using Tapatalk

[dnslater]

I tend to like smaller watches with my daily wear Speedy Pro being the perfect size, but I took a chance on the sbdc051 and it arrived today after ordering Tuesday from an obscure Japanese seller. I was pleasantly surprised when I sized it and put it on. Wears very comfortable on my wrists which are a hair over 7". The contoured sides and back of the lugs help make it wear thinner than it really is.

First impression is very positive. I was a big Shogun fan, but sold it because I am a bracelet guy and didn't like the faux 3 piece links. This watch takes everything I liked about the Shogun and improves upon it, using the terrific bracelet from the SBBN015 Tuna. Bezel action is very nice. Clicks are very quiet and well dampened, but firm. Large protruding crown is very easy to operate and set/wind. Here are some quick and dirty iphone photos.

[59yukon01]

I tend to like smaller watches with my daily wear Speedy Pro being the perfect size, but I took a chance on the sbdc051 and it arrived today after ordering Tuesday from an obscure Japanese seller. I was pleasantly surprised when I sized it and put it on. Wears very comfortable on my wrists which are a hair over 7". The contoured sides and back of the lugs help make it wear thinner than it really is.

First impression is very positive. I was a big Shogun fan, but sold it because I am a bracelet guy and didn't like the faux 3 piece links. This watch takes everything I liked about the Shogun and improves upon it, using the terrific bracelet from the SBBN015 Tuna. Bezel action is very nice. Clicks are very quiet and well dampened, but firm. Large protruding crown is very easy to operate and set/wind. Here are some quick and dirty iphone photos.

I've always loved my Shogun, but after two years I think it's time to let it go. Easier to do now that I got a MM300. I'd like to try this 051, and the fact it uses the Tuna bracelet is a bonus. I like the blue, but I'm finding I like to have the bracelet option.

[shaneotool]

I really like that blue on bracelet. I may have to piece one together.

[CGSshorty]

I'd like to see one of these on an Isofrane.

[Chocodove]

I'd like to see one of these on an Isofrane.

I was literally just about to post.

The OEM rubber and hardware (especially) is absolutely fantastic, but the tail is a little too long for me.

Isofrane works great IMO.

[CGSshorty]

That looks great. I can't wait for the orange one.

[59yukon01]

That looks great. I can't wait for the orange one.

I like your optimism.