This New KING Seiko Is Cool, But Is It Worth The Price? King Seiko SPB279 Review 

I like the no date feature.

I loved this video Teddy! And you are sooo right, this could really situate itself as the middleman between Seiko & Grand Seiko. I think it could be a really smart move!! The only shame, like you said, is the movement. It feels almost unforgivable... They release a watch that enthusiasts will primarily get excited about.... But then don't put in the movement it ought to have. So close to being perfection!!!

I bought the vertically brushed version and absolutely love it when I wear it. I bought it from my AD and I got him to come down significantly on the price because we have an established relationship, having bought my Grand Seikos from him in the past. Sure the movement has historically been inaccurate, but I think they stepped up their QC to make sure the movements put in these get a little more attention (based on the great accuracy of my watch and, now, the example Teddy showed as well). The bracelet is what sold me on the piece and it has not disappointed. To me it's the best modern interpretation of the highly articulated bracelets of the past King Seikos.

I think you’ve totally nailed it Teddy… I love the idea of having a King Seiko in my collection, but at the price that they’re asking they must put a high-beat movement in the watch. Something within COSC Tolerances and high-beat are an absolute must

I totally agree with you Teddy. Well said! I am very hyped right now and really hope that they are going to do a King Seiko project (watches between 1000-3000 $). If this watch had a 4-hz movement, see through caseback and just a little bit of finishing on the movement too, i'd be buying it by tomorrow. I love Seiko watches, but I want to go upmarket for my next watch and spend more on a good watch, but I'm not in the Grand Seiko budget yet. Fingers crossed they read that! 🤞

I picked a LE lavender dial on a bracelet with a white strap with purple contrast stitching last week in Costa Mesa (for the Mrs - but I’d totally wear it.) Couldn’t be happier. As mentioned in the video, images don’t do it justice. I wish I could add an image because the purple is not shown here and it’s killer. Keep up the great work Teddy. You’re one of the few reviewer AND seller that I actually trust.

If you like the watch, buy it. It is pretty simple. I love it.

This was a good opportunity for Seiko to re-introduce a high frequency movement for the king Seiko line. Seems like they don't really want to.

absolutely love the watch world! learning everyday, thank you teddy

thanks for an informative vid Sir Teddy.

Not sure if I'd buy it immediately, but I would choose it over a lot of other competitors in that price range. Then again, I really like these sharp edges and the finishing on the watch, plus the size is just right from my perspective.

your cameraman does such a great job that every watch you review makes me want to buy it even though i may not care for the model!!!

Great video shots. Thank for sharing. I tried on this model at a dealer. Nice watch but did not wear nice as expected.

I have read some articles which pointed out that King Seiko and Grand Seiko were of the same level in the 1960s and in actual fact started as competition between the two factories to out best each other to bring their outmost best watchmaking. If that story is correct, then the finishing and quality of the King Seikos are on par or equal to Grand Seiko during that time. Of course, grand seiko won in the end and was adopted. If you see some King Seikos in the 1960s you can clearly see the 44 GS case finishing inspiration. 😊

I really love the red dial variant of this release. It's an incredible piece in terms of finishing and the general overall looks. Unfortunately, I couldn't justify almost £1500 for one...

Great review Teddy! I have a Grand Seiko and while it does not get a lot of wrist time, it's my favorite watch in my collection. p.s. you inspired me to start my own watch channel!

It definitely needs a true hi-beat (36,000 bph) movement, with that gold medallion on the case back.

Great review Teddy and spot on. I have the red version. The finishing of the markers are not perfect with some scuff marks under macro view though. I guess the silver sun burst dial hides them well due to lower contrast compared to the darker dials. The movement is ok and frankly quite surprised that it's less than 5s drift. I suspect a more attentive adjustment is made on the king seikos. Anyway, I'm hopeful that Seiko will stay true to KS' mantra of superb accuracy and high beat movement (like in the past) at some point.

I have this one with the red dial. Quite a stunning watch. You have to handle them to see the case work and over all workmanship .it is super comfortable on the wrist. All it really needs is a better movement to be a great watch. Kind of reminds me of my SARX055. Almost a GS, if only for a better motor.

I totally agree with you - a 4hz or 5hz movement would be a big reason to choose this over the top level Seiko (Presage) watches. This would also be consistent with the history of King Seiko and their Hi-Beat line of watches.

Congratulations on getting Seiko. That's a huge win

Great video sir

Great video Teddy. You and Andrew Morgan are the OGs now

I bought the red dial version (SDKS009) at an AD when I was in Japan a couple months ago for a good price. You have to see the watch in person to appreciate it. The size, attention to detail even down to the bracelet, and charm justifies the price to me. Sure the movement isn’t the greatest but I have the most accurate clock in my pocket, my phone. End of the day its still a hobby. Many compared why buy this and not an entry quartz GS, which that AD also had but it didn’t have the charm the King Seiko gave off, and in my opinion a one of a kind design.

As a huge Seiko fan I must say this is an EXCELLENT REVIEW of a very beautiful watch

It would have been an easier sell for me if Seiko sold this range with close tolerance adjustment and regulation. Your example was running exceedingly well so make it a standard for KS models. This would be a clear differentiation from Seiko where the 4 and 6 series movements more often than not run well out of the box, but are not warranted to do so (I bought a Sumo recently that was at the limit). The watch looks, fit, and finish would take care of the rest of the price tag.

I own the red dial version and it's a stunning watch. The finishing seems a step up from the presage. And the bracket is better than most GS bracelets. I initially thought I wouldn't buy it because of the moment but I was too mesmerized by the dial and finishing. And great news it seems that it keep time very well. For the money I wish it had a better movement, but I wouldn't say it's a terrible movement, it's average. Amazing watch tho. Feels like an affordable GS and has scratched that GS itch

TB, the best watch connoisseur on youtube!

Totally agree with you Teddy! Movements are the key to differentiating KS from Seiko.

Got mine for 1250 brand new, big steal

Great analysis. When considering a watch, I always check out the used market as well. If my criteria is a high quality Japanese watch, I would definitely prefer Grand Seiko SBGX models in the 37mm case, which can be found for 1000-1400 range easily.

I have red version and I really like this watch! I bought it with 15% discount and it was around 1400$. In my opinion, the price is ok and watch looks great. Accuracy on my hand +3 sec per day. I didn’t find any other “red” watches which I liked, within this budget.

Great video

I think positioning King Seiko as an independent brand that lies between Seiko and Grand Seiko as an affordable/entry-level luxury brand competing with the likes of Longines and Baume & Mercier would be a smart move for Seiko.

It's a valid substitution for someone who wants the luxury watch experience without paying the price of a luxury watch. I think we are so entrenched in the hobby that we forget most people don't care about movement or brands. Your coworkers would look at this watch or a JLC and think to themselves, "Nice watch", and not much else- but you would suffer the $5k difference in prices.

I picked up the red dial version. I love this watch. Until you see it and feel it in real life you simply cannot understand it. The movement will not win any arguments on paper but it will run forever, with less maintenance than a higher beat movement. And if I want to get it super accurate, I will have it regulated. This watch is for the seiko fans or the fans of mid century design or those that appreciate Japanese craftsmanship and culture. This watch is not a gateway into watch culture it is a sign you have picked your tribe. I am super happy seiko made a watch for the enthusiast that does not cost grand seiko money.

I personally like this king Seiko. A sensible looking and I'm sure we'll made watch that will last the tests of time. I may be in a minority here but I actually prefer solid case backs as well on mechanical watches.

I just ordered one. The jeweler near me sells Seiko 20% off retail so I got a good deal. I'm starting to build my Seiko collection with the king Seiko, sne573 solar diver, save the ocean Antarctica baby tuna and I am on the waiting list for the alpinist spb121 is on backorder should have it by the end of the month. I'm already saving for the GS 007 mechanical and one of the GS heritage models spring drive. I thank you for your knowledge in helping me with my picks

Love the bracelet as well as the red dial version.

The Cybertruck of Seiko design. I dig it!

I love this watch and like others was put off by the price. My local AD has a nice discount but i'm still on the fence, BTW a great video.

New drinking game.....you take a shot every time Teddy uses the phrase "leans into." 😄

I’ve already bought the purple one, boutique edition. This is the most beautiful Seiko watch in my 6R caliber collection. The price is ok in my opinion for the unique design and excellent polished.

Suggest bringing king Seiko to your site. Nice review.

The limited edition SJE083 is a modern King Seiko I’d love to see. But that package comes with a hefty price tag right around the GS territory. And Seiko would want to avoid this. It seems to me like KS was revived just to be forgotten again.

Great video! I think that just putting a COSC-accurate movement puts KS right up with Tudor and Longines, and maybe just writing "King Seiko" on the dial. Would like to see the development of this sub-brand :)

You can have Nomos Tangente 35 for similar price. Hard sell for this Seiko. But finally some Seiko without date complication.

Spot on. A watch that looks that nice and has that price demands a calibre more unique and less common than the 6R31.

Looks great, but at that price point I would go for the Tudor rather......

I would really like to see a review of the Tudor Style. I recently graduated with my masters degree and was gifted one from my parents. I was surprised by how much I love it. I am 24 so something like a datejust or globemaster was unreasonable for someone just starting in corporate America. I’d really love to hear your thoughts and see a review of something a lot of people didn’t even know existed.

In my humble opinion ; King Seiko is the Tudor of the Grand Seiko !

I really love vintage seikos I have 2 aussie rogue variants blue and yellow and also have a lord marvel 36000 these are my favourite watches I currently own

Love the look of this watch. The dimensions, finish, unique lugs and bracelet sell it.

I love watching your video reviewed that's make me know what I wanted to buy easier to add to my collection I would like to see you review the new 60 anniversary omega James bond watch what you think ?

I like it. It reminds me of the old 'lord matic' Seiko watches. Those where really amazing. Seems like they want to revive this category of watches. Me personally, I think it's something different and refreshing to see besides the regular orthodox watches.

Love the looks of the king Seiko. My only gripe is the movement. The price point calls for something better than a movement that can be found in their more economical models. Seiko might want to consider using the King Seiko brand for a line of watches from maybe $1500 TO $4500 with better movements and finishing. The lineup would be Seiko, King Seiko, Grand Seiko, and Credor. Each step you would move up a level of quality and craftsmanship.

Love your videos, I'm an amateur to the watch world and really want to get into it. Is the 0% financing through affirm?

Anytime the seiko 6139 gets a mention I’m in. Also the blue👌🏼 that one you had on screen was not as nice as mine want me to send mine in for a review 😏😂

It would have been so much better recieved if they put the 8l series movement (from gs) into it. I know there aren’t many watches with that and they’re typically more expensive, but it would have really stepped up the watch.

Exquisite timepiece !

I think there's a market for modern, luxury pieces that adhere to a classic, mid-twentieth century aesthetic (think the stuff Omega, Longines and Patek were producing in the 50s, 60s and early 70s) - and I think this is the segment King Seiko could thrive in. Let Grand Seiko produce luxury, advent guarde modern pieces, and make King Seiko it's equivalent for classic dress watches. Otherwise you get this kind of mishmash that doesn't quite work - it's too pricey for Seiko's main collection and not as well made and luxury as Grand Seiko. For me, GS and KS should be equals (as they once were), both high-end luxury brands that each have their own distinctive identity.

Mr. Bulbasaur ( I like the nickname not sure who came up with it ) I do like it actually in the red. Very nice. Would you do a video of your favorite dial colors amongst the brands . Would be nice to give your opinion even if you have 2 choices in your fav colors 😬

The one and only reason to buy this King Seiko is the design and its complete lack of competition. It's an absolutely stunning design, and it's very well executed. Crucially, there's no real competition for this watch design wise. That's why it costs $1700 and there's no other reason. Want a 60s aesthetic small classy sharp edged fancy bracelet watch? This is your only option, so pony up the $1700. Does that make the price acceptable? That's an individual decision. If you want this watch's design it's the only option. Will you be more annoyed by the low end movement or by the lack of owning anything with this design? That's really what it boils down to for anyone thinking about it. If you ignore the design this watch is terribly priced, but watches are jewelry and you can't ignore the design. So this is where we are. I agree that Seiko is making a mistake here. They shouldn't rest easy knowing the design is great and has no competition. If another brand like Tissot makes something similar but comes in at $800 like the PRX Powermatic it will eat up every single shred of Seiko's market share here. No question about it. Personally I think there's a huge opportunity for Seiko to push the price closer to $3k by keeping the design and finishing, but adding a new high beat high accuracy movement (and a nice medallion on the case back) and myself and many others would be in love with it. The other option is a race to the bottom of pricing, but frankly, I don't think that's a good route for this design because this design has nothing to hide its finishing behind. The whole point of this watch is well done simplicity. It just needs the movement to match the complete package. Make it happen Seiko and you've got my money at almost twice this price. No question about it. I literally went and handled this watch in person and felt a ridiculous amount of confusion because of how incredibly well executed the design and finishing was but how lackluster the movement was.

Good video,Teddy, and point well taken. Seiko needs to add some things (such as a hi-beat movmt) to make it more like their predecessor. I own a KS from Jan. 1969 and it has a hi-beat movmt STILL running at 36.6k/hour plus a date complication. A watch that is always in rotation and will never leave my collection!

I love the watch, especially the ruby red dial, the vintage vibe is all over the place. I also think that pricing of the watch is OK. If price of that Tudor 1926 is fine by the market I don’t see why 25% cheaper Seiko is not OK.

Hi Teddy! Would love to see you making a video on Bell & Ross watches

I like this watch alot! It’s right in between some $1,000 dollar seikos and the over z$3.500 GS I’m very much considering buying one!

3 hertz movement +/- 25 seconds and no lume. 1700USD. At least you get a solid bracelet what a steal!!!

If you had to choose... King Seiko vs. Longines Herritage Diver ? Im between the two in the 1700 price point. Im mainly wearing when I go out, or go to work, kind of a one-and-done timepiece Thanks!

This is a must buy for me

Hi Teddy, the trouble I have with this is that at this price point you have other more interesting watches. Muhle Glashutte comes to mind, as Oris. I can't get my head around about spending more than 1.000$ on a Seiko. Cool video as always. Thanks!

I'm not bothered by what the casual may think about the various KS lines, Seiko is an enthusiast's brand and those who care will do the research and dig through Seiko's extensive catalogue to find the piece that speaks to them. That said, what does bother me is what Teddy mentioned, it would be nice to see a higher end 6L movement in this watch. I'm not sure why they keep reserving those for limited runs of essentially the same watch but only "better". I tried this watch on, and I do like it, but there would have to be a decent discount from MSRP for me to pull the trigger on it, some ADs will be able to accommodate this.

I really like this and wanted to have this as my daily, but I was put off by the movement for the price and usually Seiko isn't known for it's accuracy. So, I'm going to go with Sinn 556 no date model.

Hi Teddy, are you wearing a Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 in this video?

Hi teddy! Pls do a review of the AS0002S Orient Sun and Moon. This has been my dream watch for a while.

Do you guys offer the 0% at 24 months outside USA? I am in canada

I hope seiko fleshes out the king seiko line to what Tudor is compared to Rolex to fill the gap between normal seiko lines and grand seiko. I would love to see a sport watch of some kind in the king line or a small retro diver.

Movement underperforms for the price point. Love the design and finishing. In my opinion, the text for "King Seiko" is too prominent, I guess I would scale that down a bit. Thanks for the great video, Teddy!

💯 you’re right. Nit picking but it bothers me having both Seiko and King Seiko on the dial. Just have King Seiko or Seiko King 👑

Lol, for those who want a Hi-Beat movement because of the price: if you look on Chrono24 for a brand new Hi-Beat Seiko you have to pay 4k euros 😂 I have tried one of these in a Seiko boutique here in France and they are just AMAZING on the wrist!

i would buy a king seiko that shows king seiko in the dial. i just hope they keep the vintage look and small size.

They are great at the high end; great at the low end. This is an example of Seiko’s soft middle. That doesn’t mean wouldn’t buy one of these, but never at list.

Hey Teddy, I really like the watch for its simplicity. I think they should at least add the date to add more value at minimal cost.

Hard agree on the need for a better movement. Personally, I’d prefer a manual hi-beat movement similar to some of the ‘original’ Kings. But more realistically, even a downscaled, unfinished, unadjusted grand seiko 9S movement would suffice. With the 6R series being available in much cheaper watches, it’s unfortunately a pass for me

Teddy B. The watch world rain man.

I don't have a problem with Seiko releasing lower beat movements in their "medium" category of watches. I have a Blancpain Leman on my wrist right now, and the movement is not 4hz. What makes the Blancpain worth its value, though, is the overall presentation on display. Its a battle tested movement with a 100 hour power reserve and, in my case 0-+1 seconds a day for accuracy. The dial, bracelet, and case also all fit as an everyday watch that is still on the cusp of high herololgy. King seiko could fill this gap as well if seiko communicated what their intentions are with these watches. Are the 6r31 movements regulated better than their cheaper compatriots? Also, where are the half links and the gold medallion on the case back? It's an attractive watch, but as you pointed out, it needs a bit more to separate itself from the pack in its price range. For the price, i can get a really solid Longines, oris or Tudor watch or buy a seiko alpanist and a Tissot prx automatic; why should I be looking at king seiko?

The chocolate brown dial is gorgeous. But alas, the movement.

Yes I like this. It has a very vintage look, that 1970s Tokyo night life look to it. Maybe some business exec is in some little dive bar drinking sake with his buddies after work, jackets off, sleeves rolled up and this on his wrist. It's a class watch for the price.

It looks really nice especially the bracelet but it should be half the price.

Love this watch. Seiko seems to be going a Scion-Toyota-Lexus thing.

This is one of those watches where you know its not a good value per se, but that in and of itself is what makes it such a delectable purchase because... Damm the value, its just a beautiful fu*king watch.

Lovely shirt, where did you get it from?

I need more offshoots of Seiko. How about: Gangsta Seiko Baller Seiko Pimp Seiko Emperor Seiko Boss Seiko Dictator Seiko All good suggestions

Love your review. I prefer to stay at 39mm or more for watches. I would have preferred 28800 beats

Teddy - The next time you sit down with Joe Kirk could you ask him why there QC issues are rife in Seiko? I recently sent back an SPB239 due to the hour and minute hands not lining up at 1200. I've also seen online reports of misaligned chapter rings, even with some GS's. I don't see how Seiko can be taken seriously. On a side note I'm glad I ran into an issue with the SPB239 as it drove me to look around more and I ended up with a Sinn which I'm very happy with.

Let's have a snowflake dial in the same model, and Seiko can have my money right now.

Over time. The name Seiko we be elevated for next generation. That's what it seems in their long term plans.

Even Seiko Luxe gets spring drive. King Seiko would be amazing with a Spring Drive movement! They already have a different look, improve the movement and we'd all jump on them...

With Cartier tank @ 3k and JLC Reverso @ 4k both with quartz movements, is the King Seiko with a slightly cheaper mechanical movement really a deal breaker?

They should change the logo like they did on Grand Seiko, remove the Seiko on top and replace it with King Seiko so that it can also stand out on its own.