Today I am Brave! Being over stretched with the job this week, I still managed to pull out an interesting video.I am really curious what do you think about this move! Ballsy or Failure? :D Cheers, Andrei
For years, I avoided buying an SKX. It was easy to understand it’s uniqueness in terms of design and specs for the money, but i felt it would be a letdown given all the hype around it. When I finally picked one up this year, I realized how satisfying it actually is to wear. It’s an icon for $200-ish, and the well-known “flaws” like the non-hacking, non-handwinding movement gives you fun ways of interacting with the watch, such as the “Seiko shuffle” or reversing the crown to hold back the second hand until it’s bang-on with the atomic clock. The small details like the way the case flows and the wave engraving on the caseback make it a pleasure to behold from any angle. It’s the watch that I wear in the most carefree and non-self-conscious way compared to anything else in my collection. All this to say, I am not the least bit surprised to hear you made the same choice. Great video, and wonderful story-telling, as always!
Thank you very much! I was an early adopter of the youtube SKX, I let it go after a few months, but now I will always have one in my collection, It's a cool, classic diver to have! All the best, Andrei
You buy on hype, you see prices falling down, you sell afraid of loosing money. Then make a stupid movie , throw Rolex in the title to get some views. Social media watch community in a nutshell.
I bought my SKX007 11 years ago and it still gets the most wrist time. The jubilee bracelet is the most comfortable I’ve worn. I recently sold my Submariner 14060 and a Datejust41. Something about Rolex isn’t doing it for me anymore. However, I did keep my Polar 16570 but still, the SKX on jubilee gets 98% of my wrist time. I think I’m done collecting. SKX was a good entry point and it might as well be an exit point.
Yes! You are now my favorite channel on RU-vid. Not being pressured by social pressure. Just collect what you like. Yes, acknowledge pieces but don't feel obligated to get these internet trophies. I'm so happy with my humble budget collection. You just confirmed it for me, thank you!
I knew from the comment that you were broke and trying to find solace from this dude, just do your broke self and stop trying to find satisfaction for being broke!!
@@duffydon1741 I don't know what you consider broke? My reason for not wearing Rolex is that I can't stomach myself wearing something worth more than my Honda. I'd be paranoid to get scratches, dings, while I wear my seikos, gshocks, without worry. I wear them with pride. They're enough to give me self satisfaction. Not participating in this race. Could I afford a Rolex? Not at the moment, did I try to strive to own one? Yes. Just like everyone. if that makes me broke, ok. I have other things to focus on financially. Everyone has their own priorities and hobbies, if trolling others is yours and brings your joy, good for you. I just wanted to comment on this channel to show love and support. You deserve so many more subs and viewers. Great content.
Good for you! I bought a current model, new Submariner in February and I’ve been thinking about selling it. Rolex has ruined the thrill for me of owning a Rolex. Owning a watch should bring joy, not embarrassment. Maybe I’ll join you in freedom soon brother.
I'm going through the same thing, I have a couple but don't really like wearing my submariner. Not that I'm afraid of scratching it, or that, or whatever - just don't like the association. Been considering selling it but not sure if I'll get sellers remorse.
Man this video is everything I think and feel about my collecting experience! You hit every single point that was and is turning around my mind for the last year. Thank you very much for this amazing storytelling video!
this channel is truly a gem. for someone who is starting a collection, your perspective is a constant reminder that I should enjoy the process and not be affected by the hype and what the market dictates. also, your writing is superb. I wonder what you do for a living. more power!
Awesome video Andrei! I think the SKX is on of the most iconic watches of all times. I don't have one yet, but I completely understand why everyone loves them so much! To me the Seiko (SRPE93J1) turtle is the perfect dive watch. It has been glued on my wrist for 187 days now and I love everything about it. An example that shows that great watches don't have to be expensive. Enjoy your SKX buddy!🔥🇯🇵
Can I just say that your product photography/videography (for want of a better phrase) is seriously impressive and on point. Much like the channel as a whole really.
Great video and you described exactly how my journey recently has gone. I picked up a NOS SKX007J this week and wearing it on an old NATO strap I had lying around just reenergized me for the collecting again.
Congratulations on acquiring a true gem piece! I personally believe, even if it’s not the best, the SKX007 is one of the most beautiful dive watches ever built. I realized its beauty and legacy too late and so bought it aftermarket from an Ebay seller at a Scalped price but I don’t regret even a little bit. This is the only watch in my collection that I paid more than the original price because it’s just too damn gorgeous and a Seiko masterpiece from that time it was originally produced. Also, I don’t know how you do it in every videos, but your camera work is just absolutely spectacular and amazing to look at. I really enjoy all your content.
Thank you kindly for the great videos and insightful commentary. The SKX is a true icon and deserves a prominent place in Seiko's history for sure. I feel that, for my own collecting journey anyway, it all comes back to where I'm most happy. Happy in terms of value, lifestyle fit, and "feeling' of a watch. For me that's Casio and Omega. Though if the right SKX 013 came along it might be hard to say no... So, where do you go from the Sub? Wherever feel right to you :-)
Thanks for this video! This actually took away some anxiety that I had about wanting to buy a watch that’s ridiculously priced! I have several affordable Swiss watches that I’m completely comfortable with. It puts knots in my stomach when I think that I must have a Rolex or Omega even.
Great take! I love my SKX007 from the birth year 1996. Patina'd and beautiful. My new favorite watch is the Seiko Dark Manta Ray King Turtle. Most beautiful dial i have personally experienced. Love this hobby and its ever-changing moods, as you so eloquently described.
Bought an SKX007 in 2018 as my first automatic, been with me on many adventures in that time! Had on on the rubber strap until I wanted to switch it up and got the jingle-jangle Seiko OEM Jubilee, and honestly, I love it. It does its job with nothing superfluous at all, not even hacking. To me the SKX is the epitome of "good enough" for practically everything. It's not perfect, but neither are it's wearers, and it'll never let you down, be out of place, or get you mugged. Rolex is the status symbol of the watch world, but the SKX is the passion symbol. You can't be a watch enthusiast and not have a soft spot for the SKX. It is in every way possible, an icon.
Very interesting take on your evolution as a collector! I think decent microbrands might offer what we’re looking for, or perhaps that’s just another stage in the process?
I agree with this viewpoint as sage wisdom! As David S. Stated earlier. I started out watch collecting many years ago with a Seiko SKX173, then the SKX007, then a turtle (all still in my possession). From there the addiction went way overboard! I realize years later, the original three Seiko watches I purchased have the most wrist time. The other contender is my Helm Vanuatu. I’ve sold all of the expenses watches that either didn’t receive wrist time due to fear of theft (I frequently travel to questionable areas), or devaluation from damage, I have found happiness going back to where it all stared! The funny thing is, I’ve received more compliments on my Seiko SKX173 than any other watch I’ve owned! Always enjoy watching your videos!
I really enjoyed the video - It's great to have this positive impact from you (sometimes I feel overwhelmed with the whole watch-collecting hobby to be honest). It's nice that you can be in the moment and enjoy what you have instead of chasing(which is what I struggle with.)
It's a struggle here as well! I always end up with a lot of watches. But at least, Now I started to filter them better and I am more satisfied with the purchases. Cheers, Christopher! :)
Great decision my friend. I recently sold my OP for a good price. So now I've turned my attention fully to Certina and Seiko's SKX range. I have the beautiful DS Super PH 500M (orange dial of course) and original 009, 007 and my favourite 011. They're all on original Seiko jubilee bracelets. I'm just waiting on a reasonably priced 013 to round out the collection. You just can't go wrong with an SXK. I acquired the 009 when they first came out in '85 and it's still going strong. The other two last year. The 011 is a JDM model. And for once, no alignment issues with any of them. I deem myself very fortunate indeed. Take care my friend. I look forward to seeing what Seiko you get next.
I bought back my first watch, F91w and for 2 years it's been a joy to wear it. This was a great video, and you should probably go with the watch that is obtainable by your audience. You were taking shots at Glashutte... yeah... not a fan. Oh and yes, this was a good move. Brave even.
This SKX has the same value proposition as much as a Rolex Sub for a much more attainable price point. Yes, a Rolex is a great brand and so is Seiko and I'm glad both of these exist even though I don't have a Rolex but an SNKK that I purchased back in April this year. I'm planning to build my collection but I intend to take my time with it. Well done with your presentation it is much appreciated.
Related to this type of diver watches, and you reviewing a lot of Certinas, will you review this very nice looking new Certina black diver soon? All the best!
Just when I thought I was ready to let go of my SKX007. I haven’t worn it much over the last year, and I didn’t think it was worth keeping in the collection any longer. This video completely reminded me of why I loved it so much in the first place. I guess it’s staying…for now. Fantastic video!
@@abualazka6047 It’ll stay for now. I just have a hard time keeping watches I don’t wear. I feel like someone else may enjoy wearing it, and I’m not just keeping it for the sake of keeping it.
Great video there so many seiko skx watches out there at different prices to suit all budgets I suppose its hard to choose .I've got 2 seiko 5 watches one I've had 16 years and never had a problem with it
When I started with watches in 2018 I directly fell in love with the SKX007 and I was hesitating to pay such a huge amount on a watch. But after owning it it grew on me so quickly, that I ordered the SKX009 as well and still today I wear both watches regularly. My collection has pieces all well under 2.000,- Dollar/Euro, Hamilton Cooper, Stowa Flieger, Sinn 556 on the H-Link which I all love, but nothing gets me the excitement like my SKXs. Especially that you can wear them wherever you are and collect great memories with them as they fly under the radar but still look cool as F***! Love your Video and presentation and maybe one day, I will be able to sell as well a Rolex to enjoy my SKX more 🙂
"Buy the fear, Sell the Greed". I have zero interest in buying a rolex or luxury watches right now since everyone is chasing it. I'll gladly enjoy discount priced lower end brands like Seiko, Tissot, ect... And if / when we get a REAL economic storm that forces everyone who owns luxury items to re-evaluate their choices, THEN i'll look into getting some higher end brands and deals. Great video!
Best thing about the SKX. They can be serviced and rebuilt forever. There are so many 7s26 parts. As well as Dials , crystals and Bezels inserts can be swapped if u damage it. The case is a tank. You would have to drive over it with an 18 wheeler to damage the case.
Just watched your video about which of the three to sell and followed with this one. I'm trying to make a similar decision, mostly trying to convince myself to sell my sub - I just never reach for it. My explorer is so comfortable and under the radar so leaving towards keeping that. Like the videos - cheers
Great video and commentary. I had probably 15-17 watches that could be considered Submariner homages are deeply inspired by... I finally decided to pull the trigger on investing that much into one watch. The Sub was amazing to obtain, and it felt great to do it. It quickly faded away and I realized that I could live without it. I let it go and I still have 150+ watches in my collection. I also let go an Omega Aqua Terra because I had two Alpina Aplpiner Quartz watches that filled that feel on my wrist at a ridiculous fraction of the cost. No one sees my collection outside of my family. With increasing thefts of Rolex watches in the states as well, it was great to let it go.
For those that don't want to spend the money on the real thing, my recommendation is the Cronos homage. They have a date and no date version of the watch with a choice of movements. The watch, bracelet and clasp are about as close to the real thing as you can get for a fraction of the cost.
I have never sold a watch I owned (that's why I have 89 now). I can't just get rid of a watch I researched, wanted and loved. It goes back in the box and one day it will come back to light. I have one daily driver (actually every other day). It's an Oceanus watch, but I wear a different one every other day and I love it :). Selling your beloved watch to get the next grail is a rabbit hole. Wait till you have enough money to get your grail and you won't feel the need to buy a new one every week. The moment you get the Rolex, you will "need" the Patek, then the Tank, then the Panerai. It will never stop, unless you stop selling. Later edit to answer your last question: I have the SKX007 and the Casio Duro as my diver watches. I rarely even swim, so don't need a Rolex for some family time in the pool, or on the beach.
I gave mine away years ago, as i moved on to Oris Aquila, which was the diver for me. Completely agree with your sentiment, watch collection is a very personal thing- it is a journey and watches have their place, once you move on you remove any watch that doesn’t do it for you. Great video.
I love my SKX007. I even prefer the non hacking and non handwinding "feature" on the 7S26 to the newer movements. I have less pressure to time it to the exact second and it is less wear and tear on the keyless works. The only thing I will change sometime is replacing the hardlex with a sapphire.
Interesting perspective! I am an enthusiast, but I am a Navy Submariner of nearly 30 years, and I have always wanted a Rolex submariner because of the association. I hope to one day acquire one!
It's interesting to watch this. I had a couple of rolexes 2 years ago including the sub and when I got rid of it I made sure I remembered why. For me while I like the watch itself I didn't want to be connected to what the brand was becoming nor the image of the sub, I just don't care for it. The more glances I got the more I resented rolex for having such a popular watch that I happened to like. Having bought more watches for my collection, it was time for them to go. They went within a week of each other and I've been 'clean' ever since.
Your videos are visually spot on, your contents make you think and you’re absolutely correct about the watch collecting journey and the Rolex part. I know a couple of AD who are tired of selling them as they have become the VW of watchmaking. Everyone wears one these days. Boring. Went to a dinner the other night and we were 6 people, 5 of them wore a submariner. True story. Choose what you like, buy what you adore to wear on the wrist and stop buying into the hype of these brands who every week come up with a new model and another “made up history” about the watch …. We need to move away from this as it is turning the beautiful art of watchmaking into a mass producing consumers addiction. Here is another thought for you. I have learned recently that the watch collecting journey is the yellow brick road that never gets to Oz in the end. Been on this one for years and have recently come to the realization that there is no end to it. Also not sure anymore whether to call it "watch collecting" or "OCD" or "obsession" or "passion" or "hobby" anymore. I form part of a group of people that love watches and some say the perfect number to have is 10, others say 6 and others say 3 Eventhough some out there have over 1000 pieces. Where does it end? What is enough? What is that holy grail watch and does it actually exist? Or is it a moving target? Is it real or is it what the marketing companies try to sell us .... And more importantly of all ..... how many wrists do we actually have ?? | look at a lot of these brands recently and they just all copy each other so they can sell what is popular... .. The "accountants" now run these groups and each year they sell less, yet 3 to 4 times a year they just up the prices to match the yearly PnL's for the shareholders. Not sure which direction the industry is going in ... Is it still about watch making and the art of ?? Or has it turned into something else .... ? Many questions come to mind. Anyway , keep up these great videos. We love them. And congrats on the step forwards with your latest action and decisions. Great to see. Well done !
A chrono diver. The Ti Bathiscaphe. But with the 2020 bracelet if you can find that. So you're going up the scale (higher end watchmaking), side step (not just a diver, but a chrono), and a bit deeper to the roots (of diver designs/brands). Plus it's titanium and display caseback.
Thank you for this video, I think this video clearly show us why do we watch geek truly love horology in the first place. I believe this is one the main point that all collector been chasing and dreaming. The watch that will suite you, not for flexing, not for social acceptance, or sometimes not even in high market value. It's just you and your watch that made for your wrist!!!
Lol… I did the opposite. After purchasing and trying hundreds of watches and the trying to find alternatives to Rolex that I’m as fond of, I decided to primarily just collect Rolex and I’ve never looked back. Cheers
have you thought about a Seiko LX piece? for instance a SNR031 with spring drive and 300m water resist. It's gorgeous live and it's a beautiful titanium piece, extremely well done (granted it's a bit on the chunky side for some).
Reference point is chrono24. Any dealer, buyer or seller is following the platform for price referenes. As other ways to underatand it's value is to put it in watch groups at some specific prices and test the waters.
I started 34 years ago with seiko and have been around the block with many watches in many price tiers. Seiko has and always remain in my interest and collection.
Juat so happy its not a silly priced Seiko ,thank you for sharing your wise decision !Glashutte is also a great choice, IMO, so expensive( for me), but at least its interesting, high quality, good services and opulent, without being gaudy !
@ 4:15 what a beautifull tribute to unalighned bezel of one SKX007. I love the fact that Seiko never try to correct mistake, maybe it's not a mistake but rather charm when you consider that J and K models are same in that regard. By the way I wear my SKX007 exclusivly, there is no need for other watches and brands. Only watch that can go head-to-head with it is a Citizen NY0040.
Spot on for sure. Thanks! What is the real difference between your favorite shirt and and your watch? In time you will change your preference. A new shirt or a new watch is a way of progress. Now I have a Seiko 7c43-7000 Kanji. 🇯🇵🌊
I've always liked the SKX 007 look. I had a quartz version blue dial with blue and red bezel insert back in the 70s, 80s. What I don't like is the big 42mm, thick case and the minute markers on the insert beyond 15 minutes.
It feels surprisingly good to let go of stuff in the collection (any collection) doesn’t it? Once we understand the subject better, and know ourselves better, we often realize our needs are much simpler and focused than we first thought in the exploration/discovery phase of the hobby.
It’s my first “real” watch and second day of owning the SKX007J. I decided to pay more for the Japan made model in mint condition as a gift to myself for graduating with my masters in December and a momento of simpler times (90s) baby. I cannot say enough about how good I feel on the purchase and hope to have this watch a very long time. Get one while you can.
@@BraveBeatersthank you so much. Predictable choice isn't it.. my carousel took me to Speedy, IWC mark 16, Aqua Terra. All sold now and looking for simplicity
@@Tobester_McDonkey that sounds great! Yeah I've seen them on chrono24 at reduced prices, so they are unique in the current rolex market! I'll be going with the steel 36mm as it'll be my daily, so I would like something as "vanilla" as possible... just hope I manage to get the right size with the lack of micro adjust
I've never handled a Rolex to know really, but they've always left me a bit cold, especially everything that surrounds the watches turns me off of them. Maybe someday I'll get a vintage one, but really, even though I'm early in my collecting journey I've already moved on to interesting vintage pieces or watches that help me express myself, not express the fact that I'm in to watches
I never understood the appeal of the SKX’s. That was then. Eventually a good friend just sent me one, a 007. Suffice to say, after that, I understood. I’ve added a SKX 009 and this is me now trying to choose what color Seiko GMT to add now. I have never been a Rolex guy but I was and am a HUGE Omega fan. Having said that, I’ve owned, experienced, and realized, every watch can be just as enjoyable if you let yourself get out of the way of yourself. No matter $20,000 or $20. 👍
Great vid and interesting point ..funny thing is I've never looked at a Seiko and thought 'I like that' in fact I walk past their displays in malls and airports without even looking....they just do nothing for me.I have a couple of Rolex's since the 80s and like them more now than when I bought them....my daily beater however is the BB58 in gilt......does the job perfectly.
Seiko SKX checks all the boxes that make an ideal diver watch. It just doesn't have the aesthetic perfection of Rolex and its hefty price tag, which is fine for millions of collectors worldwide. The SKX fits very well in the entry level market it was designed for. However, its discontinuation and replacement by the more expensive Seiko 5 diver style is one of Seiko's biggest blunders, in my humble opinion.
Each to their own. I've NEVER been a Rolex fan, but do have an SKX007 and SKX009 in my collection, there's something about them that hits the mark. My favourite watch though, is one that comes with a story. I like old military field-watches and budget to send them off for a full service, new crystal and strap, case-polish etc... and end up giving something unique a whole new life!
I have had 3-4 SKX's - both 007 and the 009. Loved the looks but that movement irritated me. I didn't like the fact that I couldn't wind it... that's why I sold them. So watching your video made me go look at the second hand market here in my country. They can still be had at a reasonable price. Hmmm
Can we talk about the Citizen Promaster NY0040? I have the 17LE version (blue dial) and am thinking I actually prefer the Promaster NY0040 to the SKX.... You've talked about Citizen before (props to you Andrei) but I think the Promaster NY0040 deserves more love. They can still be found for bargain prices too, I got mine from ebay a few weeks back for $100.
Definitively the SKX...but considering the NH35 caliber, you can go to an older brand than Rolex which is Invicta with its Pro-Diver (yes...the hated homage Invicta), the Seiko King Turtle SRPE05K1 with a 4R36 caliber, The Seiko Samurai G,uanqin GJ16133 with Seiko NH35, or any Pagani with the same Seiko Caliber. But also you can switch to probably the best sub watches ever made due to their back cover locking patent...the Vostock Amphibia VDV420288, Vostock Neptune 170G01or the Vostock Amphibia 13025A.
All mentioned, solid watches, but still. I would keep the SKX with the standard movement, I think the imperfections of it, makes it more appealing! Cheers!
I also own SKX 007 ..quality is good , almost 10 years I've been wearing it,, only once having it service..up until now, still clicking to do its job, telling accurate time..
My replacement for my ProSpex Seikos was an SKX. I love the look. I love the wear. I love the size. I love not hacking/setting it. I loved it so much, I bought a second one/ They are all I wear now.
sold my skx013 to obtain my grail which is the bb36 with the ETA. but are you sure you sold them? maybe in the future SOTC you still have those 3 crowns haha or maybe hid it
Good for you….I agree 100%…it all about the experience of ownership….nothing can erase your joy and memories of past watches. When you find that you’re not wearing them, it’s time to let them go and get something else that you will wear…unless you’re one of those people who have the ability to hoard a huge collection of watches that spend all their time in a box inside a safe. Nothing wrong with that, but for me personally, watches should be worn.
The skx013 makes sense.. I agree and bought the skx too and I am happy with the purchase.. it gives me very strong japanese vibes and wont compete too hard with my 114270
As much as I want the sub, I could never justify the price they go for now. I have been perfectly happy with my Tudor Black Bay 58. There are so many watches out there to own and enjoy. The SKX is a classic that is still a true "tool watch" (as much as I hate that term) that you can wear without worry and use for its intended purpose. The next Seiko I would like to get is the slim turtle SPB317.
the SPB317, is very captivating, I had one for a few months and I enjoyed it. design wise, although is a tonneau shape, it wears similar to a bb58! very comfy! Cheers!
Hi Andrei sure i have both the SKX 007 & 009 the Juibilee 22mm strap looks fab i have no intentions of letting them go from my collection they are both icons cool looking timeless pieces.
Excellent clip my man. Agree or disagree, it's an interesting take. I own a couple of Rolex (gold mid 50's oyster and a 2003 Submariner)...and a couple of Seikos (Mini Turtle and an MM200). I've never considered selling the Rolex's since frankly, you sell 'em, the money disappears and then, well, hey-ho. No money and no watches! I've done it before, selling some 80 pieces in 2008 but am now back up to about 35. It's a sickness that never leaves you ;) But I sure get the idea of selling everything and going with one or two less expensive 'classics'...
So watches have come and gone but never my SKX007, nor my SARB017, nor my Casio G Shock DW 5600. Icons I suppose and there is a reason for that which is hard to explain. My latest , my blue Certina DS Action Diver may also be forever. It is just so captivating. There is a Rolex vibe there but more attractive somehow. But it scares me, why does it keep to 1 second a day. It shouldn’t do that. What’s going on?
all 3, true classics!! which can represent the base of any solid collection! There is a bit of Rolex vibe, on the Action diver true. As for the accuracy, I'd say is very good :D
To me it would make more easier to read the 10...20 and 30 if they facing as the 40 and 50 minutes. Just me. That is why is so hard for to get a diver watch.
