Seiko King Samurai SRPE37 First Look - An absolutely incredible value diver!
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- čas přidán 24. 07. 2024
- Hey guys! It has been the longest wait ever but I finally got my brand new Seiko King Samurai and I am beyond excited, this watch is absolutely stunning and a really incredible value.
UPDATE - Since I filmed and recorded this, more videos have come up and it seems that not ALL are made in Japan. I’m not sure what the logic there is, but mine did come through a US authorized dealer (not a Japan importer) who is well connected to Seiko, so that may have something to do with it. The non-JP models also do appear to come in the cheaper, standard lower-end Prospex cardboard boxes rather than the nicer new-style Seiko boxes like the one I got as shown here.
Check out other videos and products mentioned here, NOTHING IS SPONSORED OR PAID/COMPENSATED PROMOTION.
Seiko Samurai + Crafter Blue Ultimate Dive Strap Review!
• Seiko Samurai + Crafte...
Crafter Blue Rubber Dive Strap in BLACK
www.strapcode.com/collections...
Crafter Blue Rubber Dive Strap in ORANGE
www.strapcode.com/collections...
Strapcode Hexad Bracelet with Wetsuit Ratchet Clasp
www.strapcode.com/collections...
Great review, thanks for pointing out all the details that don't come across in pictures, like the different level of finishing. Really helps when considering a purchase.
Love your enthusiasm, voice, energy and presentation. Keep them coming! 👍
This is such a nice comment, thank you so much!!
the silver rim is what helps make the watch looks high-end IMHO
I have to say it’s grown on me since I first got the watch. The bezel is just quite narrow and so they could have used the space and beveled the ceramic inward and I think it would have looked high end as well. Thanks for watching!!!
Great review! I bought mine when it came out. I had been considering the Omega SM 300 with its ceramic wave pattern dial but found its date hard to read and of course it's much dearer. The waffle dial of the Seiko reminded me of the AP tapisserie dials which look great. And the cyclops date window is very handy for people like me who's eyes can't see small details easily as we grow older. I like my original black strap. I think the Crafter Blue looks too plain. But it's always a personal thing. Your orange Samurai looks fabulous BTW. I love orange on a watch! Overall I agree with you that at it's price point the watch is great value for money. The movement is bullet proof and easy to maintain or cheap to replace. I love the crown's smooth winding action which makes enjoyable the tactile pleasure of setting it when I take it out when it's not been worn for a while. The new Shu-Iro limited edition version should be a great one too with its red dial, vintage lume on the bezel and gold hands.
Samurai is the best Seiko watch there is! Both lookswise and durability-wise.
Great review. I can hear how excited you are about this timepiece. I get mine in 2 days and after seeing all the amazing reviews from collectors, I think this may be the best $400 investment I’ve made on a watch.
Have had this piece for a little while and I was looking for strapcode braclets until I watched your video man... that strap looks absolutely fantastic on this guy great great pick. Great video presentation thank you
Thank you!! Since this is for me primarily a beater sports watch it’s constantly on the rubber and I love it! It does take a bit of time to soften up but once it does it’s fantastic.
Great video, shows off that bezel a treat! I use a Barton silicone rubber white/black strap on mine, you can add on the Seiko buckle taken from the supplied strap too, looks superb.
Great video and review, Josh! I just picked up the KS black dial on steel bracelet SRPE35 and I’m totally with you on its glossy finish on the ceramic . That alone gives the piece a more exquisite look that’s on par with that of a luxury tier dive watch, which caught my immediate attention. I also fancy the inner ring which I think accentuates the ceramic’s black gloss nicely and looks much better than the bezel on my 20+ year old Seamaster! I did notice you mentioning that ring is growing on you from a previous reply and kudos to you! The sapphire crystal, the dial’s waffle texture and little details like the 1/5 seconds marking really elevates this watch to a much higher class than its price. My only gripe is the steel bracelet’s symmetry to the lugs and case: there’s a bit of slack in the fitting to lugs and the ends of the bracelet also doesn’t align as smoothly to the contours of the case within the lugs. I will most likely get a matching rubber band because it looks perfectly fitted to the case in that area. Overall this piece is a superb value for the price and I love it!
Thank you! And thanks so much for watching! Yes, I definitely have come around to the polished ring and it definitely catches my eye when I wear it. - I think it helps because of how large the case is. I really hope that they start expanding the ceramic out to their other watches and ~$1K divers.
On the bracelet note, check out Strapcode’s Hexad bracelet, it’s a bit chunky but worlds better than Seiko’s stock bracelets which are mediocre, IMO. I put their Hexad bracelet on mine and have a video on it here: czcams.com/video/t0W-5nEdM_o/video.html
Hope this helps, and Cheers!!
Nice review Josh! I just bought the Manta Ray version. Can wait!
Congrats! I can’t wait to see that in person one day! Hope you love yours when you get it!
Merry Christmas 🎅 Josh.
Am loving your channel. Keep it up.
Your passion is infections
Thank you so much! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well!!
Got it. Love it. Thanks for the video!
Love this watch & was lucky to get mine from drop for a nice discount! I’ve currently got mine on a colareb strap which I had knocking around but after your review I’m definitely getting a crafter blue for it
Fantastic! The Crafter Blue straps work so well with the Samurai! A few folks have put the black/white dial on an orange one and it looks fabulous as well for a pop of color! Cheers!
Great review. I'd fell in love with that watch.
Thank you! It’s an incredible watch for sure!
Excellent review! I simply must have one of these. I own an olive green King Turtle that I adore, especially since putting it on an Uncle Seiko "Irezumi" Tattoo rubber strap (in a slightly lighter olive green that really brings out the dial), but this Sammy really has my attention! I'll wait awhile to get it on sale, however, or even better (if possible), pick one up on the pre-owned market, like I did with my King Turtle.
Regarding your review, I really appreciate your comparison to a non-King Samurai, particularly the small details that make this version that much better. Enjoy your "KS"! I'm a bit jealous, but in a good way.
Thank you! And thanks for watching! It’s a really great piece and seeing as you love your King Turtle you’ll love this as well. I don’t think you’ll have to wait too long to buy one either, if you’re here in the United States I’ve seen it on sale at Macy’s pretty frequently for anywhere between $375 and $450, either of which I think are great prices for it. Cheers!
Excellent video, very thorough and as I watched it I purchased the watch....LOL Been looking at it for a week or so and you put me over the top and off the fence.... I already bought another DiModell (made in Germany) "JUMBO" (6mm at the lugs) treated, waterproof, black calfskin band from Holben's in Washington state... I have two other of these bands and they are waterproof to 100 meters...!!! You get the look of a leather band with the versatility to wear it in the shower, swimming, and in the summer when you sweat and it is impervious to that with no real affect... Like the look myself better than the rubber and although the bracelets look good they're heavy, especially on the larger watches.... Just my preference.... Great video Josh..! Greg ...IN
Beautiful watch! I thought I was out of my Seiko phase but this one is pulling me back in. I dunno, the prices are going up, QC issues remain, but there’s just something about Seiko to me.
I don’t think I’ll ever really ever be out of my Seiko phase. I orbit around it and come and go from the brand. I’m with you on prices going up and QC issues remaining, but likewise, this one caught my eye for sure.
Recently got one at a local watchshop that was closing with 70% off, for equivalent of 210 usd, i love that thing. it's also way bigger than my other diver
7548-7000. Great video!
Great review! I also bought one of these last year when it came out. I had been considering the Omega SM 300 with the white dial but it's expensive, has a chunky heavy bracelet and I find the date window hard to read. I saw this Seiko with the waffle dial, reminiscent of the tapisserie dials of AP Royal Oaks, and loved the cyclops date window with the more premium features like the ceramic bezel and sapphire glass compared to previous versions. At the price point even with only 5% discount (since I have not seen it discounted much over the last 18 months) it is good value for money with a Japanese movement that powers so many microbrands (as well as other Seikos). I am waiting for the new limited edition (3500 pieces) King Samurai 'Shu-Iro' (made for Europe) to arrive shortly with the red/burgundy dial and gold lettering in the bezel. I noticed that my dial does not have 'Made in Japan' like yours but says 4R35 (presumably the movement) and 03E4 R5 2. I'm guessing yours was made for the Far East market and printed differently. But I assume the watches remain Japanese made.
I feel you on the Omega - I have another video on the Planet Ocean, 39.5 in white; if you’re looking for a luxury/prestige piece from omega and think the 300 is too big, I highly recommend checking out the 39.5 planet ocean! It’s a phenomenal size and uses the same 8800 cal movement that the SM 300 does. But anyhow, glad you are enjoying your King Samurai! On the Made in Japan mark, when seiko starts production they usually start in their “Japanese” factories and export those all across the world to all markets until their other plants in Malaysia, China, etc. ramp up production.
5:35 totally agree. I’m on the verge of getting one my self right now
I like the polished ring and think it helps make it pop more than the original version. After 5 different purchased I can say that the strapcode hexad is a great match for the Samurai but the ratchet clasp is a regret.... too thick on the ends. The regular clasp is a far better choice.
I have the black dial, and I find the silver chrome ring inside the ceramic bezel is a really nice accent. Also as a 50yr old with commensurate eyesight I appreciate the cyclops.
I bought the black hexad bracelet for my white king samurai but the black rubber crafter blue strap has grown on me. Especially since I got my 45mm yellow dial Breitling Avenger, rubber straps have seriously grown on me for comfort.
Hi there, the rubber strap on the Samurai doesn't seem to be the OEM strap.. I was wondering where you got that strap from? Thanks!
Hello! I talk about it in the video and there are a few links in the description - it’s a fantastic strap, I highly recommend them. OEM is actually silicon, these are actual rubber. :)
This is gonna be my first automatic watch gonna get one for my birthday can’t wait
Oh man! So excited for you! This is a phenomenal piece, it’s my least expensive but absolutely one of my favorites (proving price has nothing to do with desirability). Happy early birthday and hope you love it!
Great review! And congratulations! Did you try swapping the orange and black straps. I think orange will look nice on white and black will look awesome on orange :-)
I have, and both are great! The black on orange is a bit much because Halloween is a thing here in the US but otherwise it’s fabulous! Thank you for watching and commenting!
Outstanding review, very informative. I got myself a King Samurai at Macy's for $446.00.
Congrats!!! Glad to know it’s finally going on sale!
Love mine. fits so well.
Ive just bought the Mantaray version but in a turtle and it's amazing!
Excellent video, I would love to hear what you thing about the upcoming Orient Diver (SKX clone) Ra Acoko1b
William Hill Hello! Oh gosh I’ll have to take a look at that. I have to say that I absolutely love the new “5KX” models from Seiko, and those are definitely my pick at that price (provided that you don’t need true diver pressure resistance capability), but I LOVE the SKX so I’ll definitely take a look at it!
The made in Japan is what makes me want to get the samurai I love jdm stuff so happy I picked it over the turtle
Just a note here - not all of these have the made in Japan designation, I did my video way early on and after I did they started shipping from other various factories. That said, seiko in general is good quality so I wouldn’t worry if you don’t get a made in Japan one.
Very nice. I have the standard black king samurai
Nice video nice watches I’m a watch fan myself building my collection. Thanks again.
Thank you!
Nice review and glad you’re enjoying the new samurai. How is the qc with yours? How is the screwdown crown performing? No issues?
infinity wars Hello! I have zero complaints. My SA inspected it before he sent it out from the jeweler and I took a look when I got it as well and so far no complaints. Even the bezel is aligned better than most low-end models I’ve seen. I personally have never had an issue with Seikos when they’re made in Japan, though. Do you have one that is having issues? Cheers and thanks for watching!
@@joshswatches that's good to hear. Yes, I've actually sent three of the srpe37k1 back. The first I had major issues with the crown screwing in. Second had issues with the crown and a red spot on the dial. And the last one i also had issues engaging the crown back into the winding position from third position. I then ended up going with the save the ocean version, which had no crown issues but I do prefer the white dial. None were made in Japan.
infinity wars Wow that is TREMENDOUSLY bad! And a real shame too, because I also definitely like the white dial and am not crazy about the others. I’m not sure about how the logic works that I ended up with a Made in Japan one (it seems to be semi-common though because I’ve seen a few others in videos that are made in Japan including the Save the Ocean ones), but maybe if you can figure it out and somehow guarantee that you get one, that might be way to go. Anyway, best of luck and do let me know how it goes! Cheers!
This is the first one I have seen that is fully aligned. Great watch 👍
@@martynanstis1620 Wow that’s crazy, I guess I got lucky! Thanks for sharing, it’s good info to have for others who may ask. Cheers!
Hi Josh, I am looking to get a Crafter blue strap for my samurai, however, different sites have different length measurements for the strap, Some say 80/140 and others say 70/135. I am a 200mm wrist. Can you perhaps measure your samurai with the strap for me, from end to end. I would appreciate this. Thanks, Evan
Hello! Both of mine appear to be closer to 80/140 on the top. I’m going to guess some are taking the measurement on the underside for the 135/75 measurement (the strap mounts on at an angle so the inner dimension is smaller). Hope this helps!
Hey, lovely piece, that bracelet is great too
Hello! Thank you!! I thought I saw another comment from you asking afoot the bracelet but can’t find it now for some reason. Anyway, it’s an aftermarket Crafter Blue rubber dive strap and I just love them! Cheers!
@@joshswatches Yes, I did ask that but then I remembered the description was there for a reason and found it. Thank you though, it'll really much better looking than the original one. how's the fit though?
Thanka for the strap info
Hi Josh , I’ve put on the strap code Hex bracelet on one of my Samurai
I love the bracelet but it does put on a significant amount of weight to the watch. Just a heads up , BTW MY bracelet has the extending clasp however it is a great upgrade
Great vids
Thank you::: Paul
Paul Zabit Hello! I can imagine the weight - I have a few Turtles on similar Strapcode bracelets. Definitely heavy. Thanks for watching!!!
Such a cool watch, what bracelet is that? I can’t find it anywhere
I talk about it in the video and two colors are linked in the description of the video and there are four or five others available I believe! :)
I like this kid. Fun to watch.
Dude I wanted this watch since the start of 2018(old model) and only pulled the trigger last night on this version because priorities
Congrats!! Hope you enjoy it!!
good day. I am having an extremely hard time locating a Japanese made king samurai. does anybody have a recommendation? I've tried a few Singapore companies and even a few Japanese sites but have come up empty every time
Hello! Unfortunately I don’t have a great answer but I would recommend contacting a local authorized dealer where ever in the world you are and having them check their inventory to see if there might be one or to notify you if they get one in. And when I say that I mean reputable shops that know watches, not just Macy’s or a department store.
Also, given the quality control issues that appear to be happening with non-Japan-made models (see other comments) I would also really not recommend going gray market on this just yet should you need to return it or have it repaired under warranty. Would hate for you to be stuck with a broken/unsatisfactory piece with no reprieve should you order from some random site overseas.
Hope this helps, and good luck!!!
One more thing I forgot to add - I think the made in Japan models are just mixed in with all the rest so I do believe it’s the luck of the draw, and the official photos from seiko don’t show the Made in Japan mark.
Good review
I bought this srpe 37k1 for $380 and the manta ray with the bracelet for $20 more. Yes, awesome bezel and dial. I like the ring round the glass. It makes the watch looks smaller. I like crafter blue strap. I use it on my MM300. But, for a 22mm l prefer more tapering, so, l use one a Hirsh rubber strap. Also, looks rugged on a 22/18 leather strap.
I cant decide between those Two, can only pick one! Recommendation please
@@Angel-rg9dh I understand. It's hard to decide bec they are both nice in their own way. That's why l bought both and is very happy with them.
But l must say the manta ray dial alone is worth the money.
Yeah first i did think the manta version would be a watch that would amaze me and will never be tired of looking at it. But at the same time i dont want something too blue, that from far just looks like a regular blue dial. In that aspect the white you can spot it from a mile away and catch your attention, but from close can be more traditional or boring, although i tried it in a shop and surprised me, i never thought about a white dial before! I only want to buy one and keep it for long, or at least thats the intention. Decissions decissions...
@@Angel-rg9dh you are right. The white waffle is striking. My son likes this better. Go for it.
Where can I find a that crafter blue strap? Everyone that I’ve come across have engraved keeper that reads “professional” and I don’t care for that version. Thank you
Hello! So sorry for the late reply, that’s so odd! Perhaps they changed it since I bought mine. What a shame though, I agree I think that would look odd and kind of cheap too.
Is the second hand highly visible? I constantly watch mine during workouts.
That’s a great question, it depends on the lighting conditions since the gold can be reflective and fade back so you might want to try to see one in person for yourself.
@@joshswatches
Bought the watch. I would say 8/10 overall. If the tip was red I would give it a 8. Because the surfaces are reflective it makes it easy to read. Imo this is a good rating.
What rubber strap did you get for this watch? Thanks
Hello! This is a Crafter Blue rubber dive strap with custom lug ends for the Samurai!
@@joshswatches cheers mate!
What models are the watches at 5:30 thank you!!
Hello! From the left: an old (10+ years) Tag Formula One, a Longines Legend old model pre L888 movement, and my Omega Seamaster 300 also the previous generation from 2016.
@@joshswatches thank you! I’m new to watch collecting!
Welcome to the party!!!
I love the watch, how it looks, the value it provides at this price point with sapphire. Unfortunately, my wrist is just 6.25 inches.
um confused some what as some have Made in Japan at the 7 - 6 oclock position on dial, others don't...ie the ones on Seiko's site. Fake perhaps, the ones "Made in Japan"?
Nope, and I can assure you mine is not a fake or I would not have made this video showing it in such detail. It’s simply that seiko usually starts new model production at the factories that are in or owned by the Japanese (Made in Japan) before they do in other factories in China, Malaysia, etc. Those do not get the Made In Japan stamp. It does not mean it’s fake, in fact it’s preferable in my experience as many of the Made in Japan ones have better final quality control. As for the photos on Seiko’s site, unless the whole run is being made in Japan, the official photos won’t have that mark on it.
@@joshswatches ...thanks Josh. yeah my second thoughts, were perhaps the "Made in Japan" may be initial release and production, and if demand picks up they contract out the production runs for more...anyway the one i have on order IS apparently, a made in Japan release, fingers crossed etc
Fantastic!!! Hope you enjoy it and love it when you get it. I’ll say, even if for some reason it’s not, there’s very little difference generally. Like a Toyota that’s made in a Japan factory versus one made in a US factory. Still great quality.
@@joshswatches yeah mines arrived but gotta say wish id seen it in the flesh first... as im TOTALLY underwhelmed... its a glitzy, trincy, over hyped watch now that i have it "in my hand"...only one mans opinion of course, propably gonna on sell it
I love the silver rim look more nice I have the manta everybody ask about the watch everybody like the inside rim
This vs king turtle ?
The king turtle for me wears way too large but both are terrific!
Its ginormous. I would love it at 40mm
I agree completely, has to be worn on some kind of cloth or rubber strap to keep the weight down. Cheers! Thanks for watching!
This or dark manta, please helppp
I personally am not a huge fan of the manta version as I think it looks kind of tacky to have a watch with a dial that’s in essence a printed graphic, but that’s just my opinion. I will say this dial leans to a warm white so if you prefer cooler colors, definitely go with the manta.
In regards to your cyclops statement. The new sumo doesn’t have one.
This video predated the new Sumo if memory serves me right so that was a true statement at the time. I think they may have learned their lesson from doing it with all of these.
Since majority of coach experts can’t swim, it absolutely not sense in 300m, and btw most www2 submarines was30 m and if they fall on gom they not just die they flattened out. ))) so no doubt watch should be Seiko, but any Seiko you can afford. Even Seiko 5 on sale
I dont advise anyone ordering strap code. I ordered an angus jubilee for my sarb017 that came with a minor defect after talking to 10 different guys nothing was done about it and my review was deleted because they censor any bad reviews on their website. Extremely shady. Ill go with uncle seiko for after market bracelets.
Oh that’s a shame, but yes they’re a Hong Kong business and I don’t ever assume I can do returns with them and I only buy what I know will work.
I just bought 2. Only thing I can say is they don't clip in. I have to push very VERY HARRRRRRD. I uploaded a short. They look effn amazing tho. 22mm straight end angus jub
Nice upgrades but if you're paying more for the king samurai, which you are, then they are hardly upgrades!
I mean, that’s generally how upgrades work? You are paying more to upgrade the product? You pay more for first class, for nicer home finishings, etc. I pay more to have an AmEx Platinum Card when I could have a free basic card but it gives me much more back.
Based
that crafter blue strap doesn't look comfortable
I think it mainly depends on your wrist size. It’s definitely going to be burdensome for someone with a smaller wrist but it’s rubber and really nicely holds the weight of the watch on a larger wrist, and is very comfortable especially once broken in.
It kills me that they ruined it with that hideous cyclops BS
Ruined it? It allows you to see the date easier at a quick glance so how is the whole watch ruined?
love the cyclops