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SBDC053 EBay Bracelet

Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2018 5:53 am
by Ryeguy
I picked up one of those EBay bracelets for $148 (including shipping) and was asked to post some thoughts.

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I think the watch wears well on the bracelet. I've worn it the last few days on the bracelet and have had no issues with hair pulling / skin pinching, etc. All good.

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When I first received the bracelet, one of the things I noticed were these "fold" lines on the end links. My SLA017 does not have these lines at all.
I thought this might've been a tell that these bracelets were knock-offs, but in doing some on-line research, it appears the SBDC051 bracelet has these lines as well.

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Here is a comparative photo from Seiya Japan:

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End link fit is perfect. The watch has a ledge between the lugs and the end link is machined with a groove to fit into this ledge, holding the end link securely against the watch head.

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Brushing and polishing looks well done.
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The clasp is another area where you can notice the cost cutting between the SLA017 bracelet and the SBDC051 bracelet. The clasp is effective with no rattling. It is more machined than stamped (as per earlier low-mid tier Seiko bracelets). The cost cutting areas are the flip lock is noticeably thinner than the SLA017 and the back of the post rivet is completely hidden (welded and ground flush?) on the SLA017 fold.

My scientific wild ass guess is these are authentic Seiko bracelets. I have no idea if they were Diashield treated or not, but at least functionally they appear identical to the photos of the SBDC051 bracelets I've seen.

I'm happy I own the bracelet, but I'll likely put it back on the rubber strap. I bought this watch to be a casual wear watch and the rubber just fits that model very well. The bracelet dresses the watch up nicely and is a great purchase for those looking to wear this in more business casual settings.

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Re: SBDC053 EBay Bracelet

Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2018 6:25 am
by Panerai7
Great report!
You can easily tell if they were diashielded or not, just desk dive 1 day in the office :)

Re: SBDC053 EBay Bracelet

Posted: Mon Feb 12, 2018 7:04 am
by 59yukon01
Thanks for the write up, and if you decide to sell it PM me.