Is this actually the best watch under $100? Steeldive SD1970 Automatic watch review
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- čas přidán 5. 12. 2021
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Finally checking out the Steeldive SD1970 "Captian Willard" "Homage." You can pick this watch up on Aliexpress for under $100. Also if your'e looking for a decent, cheap rubber strap I'd recommend checking out Juelong on Aliexpress as well.
Steeldive: www.aliexpress.com/item/40003...
Juelong: www.aliexpress.com/item/10050...
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Seiko literally opened the market for these homages when they priced their own at $1k+ and left the majority of their affordable customer base behind. I'm one of those customers.
Exactly!
YES
Seiko sometimes aren't worth the price they get. Too expensive. The reliable tool watches now belong to casio and brands like steeldive
@@rios0138 all contrary TROLL
Seiko always sold CHEAPER, now when they are adjusting its prices towards a FAIR deal, TROLLS starting TROLLING around.
@@larvancioramos9748 Mineral crystal, aluminum inserts, rattly bracelets, NH35 (worse than cheaper orient movements), abhorrent quality control
how's that fair?
For me it's not whether it's a homage or not. For me it's literally just a great spec'ed watch that looks good and wears good. The fact that it is an homage doesn't actually factor in for me, I couldn't care less either way.
You and me both.
+1 😁
About 90% of the joy of the Seiko, but only 10% of the cost of that Seiko…..that sounds pretty good to me. This review is pretty spot on.
My thoughts exactly.
You just summarized the reason to buy homages with great specs: THEY MAKE GREAT BEATER WATCHES. I work in the construction industry and I have an extensive watch collection of seiko vintage and modern watches. The majority of watch enthusiasts would not wear a $1000+ watch as a beater watch.seiko divers are meant to be used as tool watches , not desk divers. You forgot to mention that most Chinese homage watches now use the more reliable and rugged seiko and miyota movements, which is the biggest improvement. And that seiko watches, including their higher priced watches, are not known for great bracelets.
I don’t really see the point in wearing anything but a g-shock in manual labor professions. I rock my Solar 5610 at work and wear my nicer Seikos when I’m off the clock
@@mikael6043 Even though manual labour might vary, personally I couldn't wear anything other than a G-Shock since it sometimes gets a bit messy. But I just wash it afterwards with a dish brush at home and it's ready again.
Dude perfect comment. I fully agree.
Yeah I wear a $30 digital Casio at my labour intensive job. It's got paint splatter on it and scratches. I think they give it character
@@mikael6043 Same here but instead of a G-Shock I'm rocking an F-91W on a nato strap at work. Every single day and it's got everything I could wish for. And even more.
I have a Seiko Capt Willard....it cost me over $1000 and when i got home from NYC where I bought it I realized the Bezel was misaligned....no big deal..It runs about 20 seconds fast per day..no big deal within spec. My SteelDive homage on the other hand wears just as good, keeps time to within 2 seconds per day and its aligned perfectly! I love it and it cost me $100..! pure enjoyment.
I have had my SD1970 on a rubber strap for almost a year and so far no issues. I could not help comparing it to my Seiko Turtle which had a misaligned chapter ring, aluminum bezel insert, a hardlex crystal and 4R36 movement, the Steeldive has no misalignment issues, a sapphire crystal, lumed ceramic bezel insert and the Seiko NH35 movement. Even with Seiko's history, I still liked and wore the Steeldive more than the Turtle. Ended up selling the Turtle, but I keep wearing my SD1970.
Great QC story. When I was a kid, made in Japan was a synonym for junk. They got much better. Now Chinese makers appear to be moving up the QC ladder.
@@paulstanley8088
They've definitely gotten much better at making watches. There are some companies like Sea-Gull who have said that they would like to eventually compare to Swiss makers.
@@patrickriarchy6054 Once I was shocked to see an episode on "How It's Made" where they showed robots making Panerai watches. I suddenly realized that handmade watches were probably mostly imaginary (and this in 2011 according to the Interneterati). Robot made and hand assembled is likely what you get from almost every manufacturer. Once robots are making watches, the country with the best robots will make the best watches. And guess who is making some of the best robots? I don't think it is Switzerland (but I could be wrong). I have a Panerai "homage" watch made in China. $99 from Amazon including shipping a few years ago. The power reserve is about 10 hours despite the optimistic complication on the front. I've dropped it on a tile floor crystal down without damage. Made by a robot? I'm sure--just like Panerai. Assembled by hand? Probably, just like Panerai. Perfect? Not by a long shot. But I could buy 80 of them for the same price as one Panerai it simulates. And it has a Sea-Gull movement! Search Marina Militare on Amazon and get an automatic Luminor Marina "homage" with display back for $63 and it arrives in time for Christmas! Hard to spend $7,900 on the original once you've peeked behind the curtain.
@@paulstanley8088
Good point .
Funny enough I just bought a Panarai Radiomir California 47mm homage. It also has a Sea-Gull handwind movement. It is beautiful.
Exactly, except I really like my turtle and I switch back-and-forth. The Steeldive has more of the vintage look that I was going for when I bought the Turtle in the first place.
Sounds a bit like an exercise in nitpickery. It is a fantastic watch and it's UNDER $100. For a lot of people out there who will never be able to spend a thousand dollars plus for a watch these are incredible. Is a Seiko that's a thousand dollars more expensive better? of course it is, but it gives you ninety percent of the watch for less than a tenth of the price.
Thought it was funny he said at the end he would be happy with this watch at 200 but not 300 and yet he paid under 100 for it... Isn't that value?
He lives in Japan..he better trash the china company. Japan is # 1 anyways..and china steals a ton of teck from USA and Japan. Big Time
Exactly this point. This watch is less than a 10th of the cost of the re-released turtle. Comparing it directly feels like a disservice here. Value is entirely the name of the game on these Chinese homages. You're paying less than a 10th of the cost of the Seiko for a watch that is 80-90% of the performance.
Nitpickery is the purpose of a review, lmao. I watch these to hopefully say... "meh, I don't mind, I'll buy it".
@@jimg8887 bro, if I've ever heard an oxymoron 😅
I own the Steeldive 1970 and a Seiko SPB153. The Steeldive is not only the more accurate of the two, it is the most accurate watch I own. That includes my two COSC certified Swiss offerings costing thousands more.
BTW, not a homage fan.
Think you missed a big point that it’s powered by a Seiko! NH35 boring I know but very accurate especially when regulated well. Reliable too.
You don’t like the hands but in the same sentence refer to other watches at 2x -4x the price. That is no comparison.
This watch is astonishing for the money and impossible to make for that in any other country then China. I’m still amazed they can actually make money on this as even basic steel in China has rose 30% this year alone ( I buy tool steel from China in my day job)
Because of its NH35 it’s a modders dream. Unlimited choice of hands or dials for this one and I’ve seen some cool looking mods on the net.
I’d say most Chinese brands are put together from parts, I even know you can shop there and choose anything you want from catalogs if you were to setup you own brand. It’s why when I watch reviews I see often common parts like the same indices.
I respect you take on this watch as you have handled many but you seem to dwell on the negative rather than find any positive.
I can compare this watch to practically any of my 100+ 70s Seikos and find that the steel dive is built just as good or bad as them.
There’s a reason most collectors have this exact watch. Steeldive took everything people actually want in a watch and priced it as cheap as they can. I view the watch as an experiment, but it’s an experiment that changed the mindset of what’s possible for the price. Yes, it has some small issues, but… it punches above its weight and is in fact a better product than some higher end watch brands.
In the UK there is a local Steeldive dealer. Delivery is usually 2 days. The dealer does the QC and only sends out watches that he passes. He provides a 6 month warranty.
I have the green one on a green waffle strap, the Great wave one on a steel bracelet and a black one on a black waffle strap that I have modded with a Seiko dial. All excellent and my favourite everyday watches.
BTW I am not "in to" homage watches. I just can't ever imagine spending £1000 on a watch. £250 is my limit.
Faster delivery but you pay a bit more I think. I always check the price against the AliExpress price. The one I bought was the same price with faster shipping. It was a California Dial Panerai type. No contest so I bought the local one. 👍
I wonder why people are not as critical against steinhart watches. Its a copy as well, isn't it?
I don't remember any other watch on this channel being judged so harshly for so little..
Dave hates homages so this watch would have to be perfect for him not to down play it. The comments speak for themselves. Not one person who owns the watch has a negative comment about it!
@@dm9078even if he hates homages, he gotta be objective... i do not rock with homages, but this watch costs 90 ffs 😅
I have three of these and one sterile Addie's Dive. Each has been virtually flawless. Each runs fine and stays accurate. Never had an issue with the bracelet on any of them. If I were in need of a reliable 'tool' watch this is what I would get. The financial comparison is important too. One of these or 1/11 of the Seiko original. Wallet says 'this one please'.
I've got the Addiesdive too. The tri colour lume is exactly the same as the Steeldive. The San Martin Kanagawa which I have is basically the same watch although not a bowl shape on the side elevation. I can't see any difference in quality between that, the Steeldive or the Addiesdive.
Proud Steeldive owner and wearer here! They are showing Seiko how to do it.
OK. This is my first in-depth look at a Steeldive. I am floored by those specs at that price. At that price, I am not concerned with the lack of customer support.
I have two from Steeldive (Bronze 1975 Blancpain homage and this 1970) and one from Addiesdive (blue dial Tuna homage) ...
Their Tuna homage is really good too. I have both of them and the value money is just great.
@@HonestWatchReviewsHWR I agree ... i got the blue dial Tuna because of the blue AR coating.
@@xPhilz0r Really? How would you know
@@Andrew.W75 How would I know what? If many people could repair the watch themselves? Its not rocket science.
Here is what I think, specifically regarding the negative points:
Lume: Never ever has anyone asked about why the lume on the bezel differs from the hour markers or hands. Its something that will probably never be an issue for 99.9% of people. If you don't like it, that makes sense, but its just a personal choice.
Cheap handset: I have seen much worse hands, even on more expensive watches. Mostly the hands are good enough if the design is ok and the size is correct. People do not walk around with a magnifying glass to look at the finishing on your watch hands. This also I feel like it will never ever be an issue for 99.9% of people.
The bracelet: it isn't great, not the worst but I'll give you this one.
Remember that in order for them to be able to sell it at under $100, with the specs it has, they had to cut a corner here and there, the bracelet & customer support probably being where they mostly skimped on.
I get that as a watch reviewer, you need to look at and point out every little detail, but the fact is, most of those fine detail things that you cannot even see with the naked eye will never ever be an issue. Don't get me wrong, the fine detail is very important, for luxury watches, less so for budget pieces.
You mention that you are looking at if it is a good watch, without thinking about the price. It easily compares with most watches 2 to 3 times its price, even more in some cases. The problem with this view is that you are completely ignoring the bang for buck of this watch. Keep in mind, many people cannot or will not spend much more than $100 on a watch, for those people it is very important to know how good it is for the price. (You cannot try to rate and compare the style, quality, luxuries, performance etc of $10 000 entry lever car with a R100 000 luxury car, that just wouldn't make any sense at all right? The same logic has to be applied when looking at watches and their different levels or segments if you will.
Those are all good points, and I agree with you, that this watch offers tremendous bang for the buck. I probably could have made that more clear in the review. My intention was to really focus in on where the corners were cut on this watch, as I think it's easy to get blown away by the value proposition and overlook the flaws, because, as you said, they're acceptable given the price. But I think there are plenty of reviews that have highlighted the best parts of this watch, I wanted fill in the gaps a little to help people see exactly what they are and are not getting should they purchase it.
@@JusttheWatch thanks for the reply. I get your point and I think you did a great job here. I really enjoy watching your channel and have been subscribed for a long time now. (also, I agree with your opinion that the word "homage" is not the correct term for these watches. I feel like paying tribute to something isn't what most of them are doing, they are just copying popular designs to boost sales and make money)
Good comment... Honestly, I can buy the Seiko but learning the specs of the Steeldive...why pay so much? 😮 I'm confused
@@JusttheWatch Just came across this same video and realised that your title is "Is this actually the best watch under $100?"
If your intention was really to focus on where the corners were cut, then you probably should have given it a different title.
You keep referencing how 99% of people won’t notice details on your watch. I buy watches for myself, not for what others will say about them
I'm a Seiko fan and have 5 divers I use for diving! Anyway last year got a Steeldive yellow dial Tuna on gorgeous yellow rubber strap, turns out to be as good if not better than my real Tuna as it has sapphire crystal, same for my red Heimdallr Monster on a high quality bracelet. (Got both because I liked the dial colours and Seiko don't have them). Love both of them. Quality is excellent, alignment is perfect and both were fine at 100m down. Dive watches that can dive for $100. It's true that they're a far cry from my Seiko's as my Seiko's don't have sapphire crystals, solid end links or milled clasps! For beater situations though it's my G-Shock GA-700 and for trekking, it's Mudmaster. I also have an Addies that works great. On the poll, I wouldn't trust it too much. There're a lot of homage haters out there. If you asked every commentor to send a pic of the alleged issues I doubt if you'd get many pics! I don't believe those percentages just based on my own experience. The only watch I've ever had to exchange for a quality issue was a Seiko Turtle that was badly misaligned.
I've got the SD1979 and it is excellent. Took it swimming last week and forgot to screw in the crown and still didn't leak.
Love my sd1979. Really is truly excellent.
I always think about whether I would get $1,000 more enjoyment looking at the Seiko version on my wrist vs. this one. It always comes up no.
I would too, but Seiko is overpricing themselves these days. 1000 dollars for Seiko Willard? It aint even Swiss. Hell, Seiko is even prominent with stupid bezel alignment issues. Seiko for me, punch very little on its weight compared to the Chinese homages.
But you don't buy a $100 homage instead of a $1100 re-issue, you buy a $100 homage instead of a $200-300 watch with marketing, support, and some original thought behind it.
Oh no question. There's no way I would ever buy a Seiko branded Captain Willard for $1,000. Despite being hard on this Steeldive watch, I totally think it's worth at least double what you're paying.
The lack of questioning about blatantly copying someone's design and slave labour show a lack of empathy in my opinion coming from a creative background nothing worse than someone copying what you've put your heart and soul into
Sorry Dave but all this goes against what your channel praises. Budget most of times these days equals homages, give people what they possibly can't afford otherwise. Beware though what you say on price points, originality and in the end the pleasure you'll get from it. There is no meter there. Nitpicking and macro shots may show the weaknesses, design flaws, even mismatched parts/elements, nothing though can take away the pleasure, for the price indeed. But then again i don't believe in parthenogenesis and pleasure is to be (not a sin...), you don't, still don't forget forgiveness is a virtue for both of us, give'em a break, no harm done, we're not here for the rich to get richer, we're here for the people to be happy. Cheers.
I got mine on the waffle strap and I'm very happy with it. I tend to avoid bracelets on watches that I'm not actually trying on, unless I see them on CZcams and I can see they're easy to adjust, and are decent quality.
I received a very good example of this watch and love it. It has some shortcomings but at the price level the positives far outweigh the negatives.
I liked your review but I will say that this watch is incredible for the price. I own many high quality dive watches but this one gets a lot of wear. I actually love the way SteelDive did the lume. Compared to some of my other watches, to include my Swiss watches, SteelDive’s lume is right up there with the best of them.
Hey, your visual and verbal presentation has grown immensely. Not just your technical video/audio editing but the way you convey the information. You’ve really grown.
I ordered this watch for myself for Christmas. It is sitting in the gift pile to be opened in a couple of weeks. Great video but I was left feeling your thoughts may have been a bit nitpicky. I love homage watches. They are a great gateway to collect affordably and are also a great way to learn what you like and what gets wrist time. I love microbrands and I am slowly moving up and hope to eventually acquire some Swiss made watches and brands. But for me it is also the journey. I think a lot of collectors feels this way. Thank you for adding to an amazing international watch community.
Man! Dave! This is why I love your channel! ❤️ I always learn so much!
I have the green SD 1970 and it's my favorite beater watch and wear it more than my Kamasu. The lume is great and the dial is readable at night. Great review.
I bought this watch and I absolutely love it. I also have a Seiko "Willard" but I still wear this Steeldive more often
Good video!
I own both the Seiko Captain Willard and a San Martin Captain Willard. I love them both! I have zero quality control issues with my San Martin. However, with my Seiko the bezel insert is misaligned and the bezel action feels like garbage. Just saying…
Also, I would purchase a San Martin over the Steeldive. Not all micro-brands are equal.
Likewise... I have the San Martin Willard...For me it is outstanding.. I have the green dial...It is very classy and comfortable to wear on the San Martin bracelet..
San matrtins finishing and qc are on par if not better than seiko.... I think tho the point of the last video was missed with this review, that homage doesn't equal value. He even mentioned that at 200.00 he would be happy, this watch costs less than 100 shipped. I don't think value means comparing it with a more expensive higher quality watch, it means what you get for the price you pay. For under 100 this certainly checks the value box....
I think he picked it apart to justify his preconceived idea thet it wasn't a good value. If ordered on a rubber strap the bracelet critique means nothing. So it down to the dial color, which there are other options, the handset and the lume coloring. I have Swiss watches with poor lume at a much higher price point. I have Swiss watches that had qc issues. So for me under 100 is a homerun. It's not meant to compete with the seiko, it's priced to be a nice specd watch that you can wear and use.
I reviewed a San Martin last month. The quality was amazing. That was definitely on par with what I've seen from Seiko or other microbrands costing at least double.
Yes, let's never forget when comparing homages to Seikos that Seiko isn't always known for its vacheron-level quality control 😂
I bought a SD1970 NoLogo "Willard" last year & am still enamored with it. I put it on a black waffle strap. Gorgeous! That & my Seiko Safari are my 2 basic beaters. I cannot recommend it enough.
Really love my steeldive sd1979 Squale homage. Feels great. Looks incredible and runs like…a Swiss watch. Never more than +\- 5 secs a day. Lume is phenomenal. Alignment is spot on. Case and bezel are bead blasted and flawless. Bezel is smooth 120 clicks, stays in place. Didn’t love the bracelet so now it’s on a leather strap. Love this thing!
I think the "homage" issue revolves around how each person views the watches in their collection. For some it is wanting a wide variety of watches in differing styles and they gain joy from that variety. Watches like Steeldive are perfect for that. They provide great value and specs in and amazing variety of styles and colors. You could fill a room with attractive and well functioning watches for the cost of one Submariner.
A couple years ago my dad gave me his 1981 Rolex Gold Day Date "President". It was his everyday watch and he wanted me to have it. Like Dave, I am a minister and wearing a gold Rolex, daily, is not always a good thing. I picked up a Submariner homage as an alternative. It is a nice watch, but uninspired. Sadly, or happily (I'm confused on this!) I started down the watch rabbit hole. I am now up to 16, or so, watches. Two of them are homages and the have been relegated to their boxes and are never worn. They both work well and look good, they just don't "do anything" for me when I wear them.
The watches I wear are an Orient Mako 2 which replaced the Sub homage. It was unique and more pleasing to look at. I have a couple Vostoks. I grew up in the 60s and the space thing was real and I love the history of the watch. I spent several years in the military and my dive, pilot and field watches connect me with that time. I have two older watches that belonged to my dad and grandfather. They don't get a lot of wear, but when they get on the wrist, they mean something.
My most recent acquisition is a and Islander SKX "homage". It is not a straight up copy. It has differnet hands, dial and bezel. (The watch is also perfectly aligned, proof that it is an homage.) I could have paid half the price for a SD SKX. Marc runs a business and is a real person who is presence on CZcams and I enjoy watching his content. The watch has a personal connection that the SD never could.
The long and short of this is that we all have watches for different reasons. Homages have their place and I may buy another in the future. Wear what makes you happy or serves your purpose. We are all in this because watches are fascinating and functional.
best summation!
@@neilp6496 I totally agree.
Exactly. I like to wear a different watch each day and this Steeldive is perfect for my needs. I couldn't justify or want to spend a $1000 on a watch
@@davidcooper8621 Absolutely. If I ever get the wants for a turtle, monster or other older seiko design, I'll look at homages. That is why I bought the Islander.
I love my Steeldive homage Sub and Tuna. Both bands are super comfortable and I love wearing each one. With 100 watches in my collection, these rarely make it out of my box collections. It is hard to put these on over some mainline brands but if I was a starter collector or just wanted a solid watch for low money that I did not fear wearing, I'd recommend these to anyone.
Great video mate. This is the kind of discussions that brings up real knowledge to our community. I think your point view is objective and well balanced. I enjoy your analysis and found it really insightful. Thank you for your great work.
I thinks it is. Looks great, works like a charm. Lume is crazy good. Different lume colours don't bother me much, as they make the watch stand out after dark :) The only improvement I'd made is the clasp. I replaced it with a milled one. I chose a sterile version, so the stupid logo is not a problem too :)
When you say it looks great what are you comparing it to?
@@Andrew.W75 to other watches of similar price. Brushing quality is pretty good all over. Edges are smooth. It has a sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel, so face is as scratch-free as it can be. Bracelet is pretty well assembled, with very little rattle. Female end links also do their job for a good fit, and good fit is essential for a good look, I believe :) Graphite-style dial is fine, and not too flashy, which I also like. Everything is perfectly aligned. Overall I'd say it's finished better than the Kamasu, that is about three times the price here in Russia (and yes, I own one).
Sounds like the quality is pretty good then. I've got an Orient Ray 2 which is similar to the Kamatsu & the finishing is reasonable but not quite as sharp my Seiko Turtle for example. Personally homage watches are not for me but if you enjoy them that's what matters :-)
@@Andrew.W75 True. I'm not a fan of homages too. But in this case I believe that the only real thing is the original 6105. And all the current Seko models resembling it are nothing more than homages. Seiko is charging exorbitant prices for a piece to its own former glory. And that is a cheap move. I love Seiko, but I'd never pay thirteen hundred for a modern "Willard". It betrays the very idea of the original, which was prized for its value. Something the current models definitely lack. That's why, among all the homages, I chose the Chinese one :) Same shape, nice feature set, great price, Seiko movement. Ticks all the boxes for me :)
It's interesting, when he mentioned the two color lume he said it wasn't intended and he didn't like it. It was like they used whatever parts they had. But when he reviewed the boldr watch that had the blue lumed bezel and green hands and dial he said the two colors were cool..... So I'm really confused as to why his opinion has now changed on this
the thing is: if you're the kind of guy who buys a watc for $100, you aren't the guy who's seeking for qc issues on the edges of the hands with your expensive macro lens. You look for great functionality and, hell yeah, this fellow does the job pretty damn well
I’m in disagreement when it comes to being compared to a $300 watch. I would be happy if I paid $300 for this watch and you know why? Because I own a few Seikos and none are of this build quality- NONE. I own a Seiko Flightmaster, DressKX and Prospex Save the Ocean “great white shark” turtle. For my Prospex, the lume is not as great as the Steeldive, the bezel is loose and I have to correct it every-time it’s on my wrist because it adjusts just by putting my hands in my pockets. Also, the bracelet from the prospex and all my other seikos STINK. Not sure what standard you are comparing this watch for the bracelet but from all 3 seikos I own, it definitely isn’t Seiko which has some of the worst bracelets for the price point. Here’s the difference. The Steeldive is meant to be worn but is also great to look at especially on the right strap. The seikos are meant to be looked at and “lightly” worn.
I think you are just too hard on them for any price. The dial is dull only on black version (however I know people who like matte black). I have a green dial and it's a fantastic sunburst dial. The bracelet is worse on a Seiko Fives which are 2-3 times more expensive. "Mismatched" lume is not mismatched, it's intentional. Hands and spring-bars - are you serious? I just wonder about watch-youtubers sometimes - you are so ready to forgive QC issues on watches like Seiko, but refuse to cut even a little slack to watches such as Steeldive
Hahah exactly, a $500+ Seiko with misaligned bezel, mineral crystal is acceptable but so many complaints from a >$100 😂
Just One More Watch is one of the best watch reviewers on YT, unbiased too. Check him out if you haven't!
@@abdulmsiddiqui4344 I follow him for years now, I know. Dave (Just the Watch) is good too, just recently he has been going in the wrong direction, becoming a watch snob
@@rumatadestora cheers👍👍
Yep, really.. mis matched lume? The fact that’s even a talking point on a less than $100 dollar watch is pretty funny to me.
People always forget the modding option; if you want to personalize a watch with a more interesting dial or a different handsett, you're going to get a great base watch with something like the steeldive... almost no-one is going to mod a $1000 willard from Seiko.
Great point.
i did that, even with an invicta base
This 🙂🙌
First off Dave, I appreciate and value your honesty when reviewing a watch. Secondly, your reviews are spot on, very detailed without pointless comments. Description, dimensions, movement, wrist shot - various angles. These are what a viwer needs to see in order to form an opinion. To the homages now, yes it's a nice watch and yes some of the homages may offer better appearance from the original. Ceramic insert is one example. Seiko should have, by now, get the message. Same goes about clasps, a Pagani (regardless if I don't own one) offers a better clasp than a $400 Seiko. Still, the Chinese homages have invaded the watchmaking industry with a product that in the least could call it unreliable. After sales service is a top priority, at least in the vast majority of watch enthousiasts. This is where they fall short. Perhaps the Swiss/Japan/German and other manufacturers can get a lesson or two from the homages, compromise their profit policy and offer a more affordable and quality wise upgraded product. I bet the homages would simply vanish....Thanks for one more well worded and presented review, stay safe.
GREAT review. I have to say your channel has improved a lot. I think this review was very in-depth, touched on the aspects that really matter and comes across as truly objective. As much as I would love to get a great watch at a cheap price, it's a lot tougher to pull off than one might think. Nice work and thanks for doing what you do. Edit: Subscribed now.
wearing mine right now, love it!
a rather fair and objective review .comprehensive too ! good job Dave!
It’s a great watch, its a 100 bucks. Let’s be serious, Not much to complain about.
When folks criticize homage watches, I think it has the opposite effect. The video also didn't answer the question raised in the title. Instead of comparing the watch to other watches in its price range (cheap Casios would be a natural), comparisons were made to watches "in the 2 to 3, $400 price range."
Maybe a good topic for another video!
Respect to you, for a great honest review!. For the record that poll is from viewers of your channel, they like cheap watches and not all of them (even if they lie in the comments saying otherwise) have the money to spend 1k on a watch, I say this because the same kind of poll in other channels (or Facebook groups) focused on 1k and above pieces, had very different results, the majority doesn't like "homages" as they are considered as a blatant copies of an original design, of course a real homage is another different thing.
I also have bought some "homages" to see if the "hype" was real, and they were just cheap ultra hyped watches. I can compare them to the real deal, and there's no similarity in quality. But what is true is when you can't have a desired thing, the mediocre will lie to themselves in order to feel comfortable and will look for others in the same state of mind to feel better, that's why I respect your review a lot, you are honest!.
I wear my SD1970 daily and always enjoy the comfort.
To think you could get a couple of Steel dives and a couple of San Martins for the Price of the Seiko is Crazy.
The original must be better, but how much better?
Really the only benefit to the original would be warranty and finishing, that’s it. But if you’re even slightly mechanically inclined the warranty doesn’t matter, you can replace the seiko nh35 in that watch for $25.
great vid Dave!
Great review, thank you. One question...if I replace the default spring bars with more durable versions, what size would I need? I know the lug is 20mm, but what about the diameter of the bars? Would it take the "fat Seiko" kind? Thanks.
Wearing it today. Two years in, and not even a scratch. Still keeping perfect time.
Hi Dave, I think you wrapped up really well the pros & cons of homage watches. I have a few homages myself, that I enjoy. But I make my best saving for buying original design pieces, the real thing with the matching emotion. Keep up the good work! 👍
Have one. Love it!
After that last video I figured you were going to come down pretty hard on this great little watch. After all that was something of a commitment to disliking it. Kinda like going to the party convinced you're not going to have a good time. But that's just human nature I guess.
At the end of the day though everyone I've seen who's ordered this watch has not come away disappointed. I wish I could say the same for some of the more expensive Seikos I've ordered. Here's an experiment. Order a Willard and do a side by side. See if it's worth a thousand dollars more.
Hey Dave
I've bought this watch from Ali Express about 2 months ago and couldn't be happier. Great homage watch with superb specs and paid $125 Australian Dollars bit if a bargain I feel. I was really suprised in less than 2 weeks from China to Australia. So don't knock Steeldive it's a fabulous buy.
Hi Dave! I have this watch but in blue. I guess I'm in the 67% bracket. My watch is perfect all around with a beautiful sunburst blue dial. The bracelet is awesome however I did change the clasp to a milled clasp. Great video man 👊🏽
Awesome honest review Dave 👏👏👏
I really like mine. The bezel action is nice on mine. I don't mind the different colored lume. I kind of like it - it matches the sense that all the hands, including the second hand are one color, while the markers match in another color. Same for the bezel. I don't mind the bracelet at all. Jody from Just One More Watch suggested changing out the clasp for a milled Ali Express one. I tried that, but I found I actually preferred the stamped one. If you want to keep it, I'd suggest putting it on a Tropic style strap or a waffle rubber strap. I sometimes change out the bracelet for a Tropic style and it looks really nice.
I wear this watch every day. Unbelievable value. Thanks for convincing me to buy another.
Well I’m glad I listened to what you had to say brother cause I was actually thinking about this watch and a couple of other ones on Ali express but now I think I probably won’t order nothing from them,,, my Vostok scuba dude/frog man just came in the mail today and I really dig it👍
I purchased the Steeldive SD1970 has a pure beater/daily watch. Thus far, it has been great. Keeps good time and no substantive QC issues for the £70 (delivered) price point. I agree with others here that have pointed out that Seiko's recent price push has fermented a market place for these homage watches, especially when Seiko Instruments are producing inexpensive NH35 movements by the boat load and, while not the most accurate movement know to man, they are pretty durable and can be adjusted to a reasonable level of accuracy (should that be necessary - which in my case it was not). On a timegrapher I am showing +5 to +11 deviation across 5 positions with a very strong amplitude of 320 and 0 beat error. I have a number of Swiss watches I wish matched those readings.
While I can absolutely understand your reservations about homage watches and the potentially poor quality control from these homage-focused Chinese brands, I cannot agree with your conclusion about the Steeldive 1970. I have it in blue sunburst on the bracelet and it has become my daily driver. I swapped out the clasp for a milled one (thanks JOMW!) and am extremely happy with it. The penultimate links on the bracelet were a little stiff but are quite mobile now. The rest of the bracelet was and remains very comfortable.
The blue sunburst is very dynamic, not at all like your matte black version. On top of that my example keeps excellent time and is extremely comfortable. Granted, that comes down to Seiko's expertise in case design. However I could not justify saving up for a new Captain Willard, especially as my country's currency is much weaker than the US dollar.
For me the value on offer far outweighs the cons you've highlighted. Cheers!
I live in Japan where the Seiko Willard is more affordable than in the US, but I still could never justify saving up to buy it. If I were interested in that design, I'd be rocking an homage as well.
Excellent video Dave. Thanks for your considered discussion about the role of homage watches in our lives. Also, congratulations to all the commentators here for expressing your points of view so respectfully. I agree with many of you!
As an owner of a SD Willard myself I think you have some good points, Dave. I love mine, but of course it's a far cry from the $1100 original. And of course that was expected for this price. Mine came with a small qc isssue: The six o'clock index marker has a sliight imperfection around the edges. As you have to look really, really close to even notice it, it doesn't bother me.
I'd already got a retro style rubber tropic strap ready which I instantly put on, so I can't say much about the bracelet. Oth, I don't have an issue with the bezel rotation - it's very smooth, at least as good as my Seikos, Orient Kamasu and even better than my Zelos Swordfish 40 (which is quite new, and might be smoother further on like the Kamasu did). Then again, that's also typical proof that qc isn't consistent here.
We also all know that Seiko has it's fair share of qc issues even on non-entry models. Anyways, of course I and most others get a SD Willard for the classic look, great specs and decent/good but not perfect quality for the price. I don't fool myself comparing this to the expensive original. For me it's all about value for money on this particular model, hence a watch brand like Steeldive is great for that purpose.
Another great video, can't agree more and after buying maybe three or four of such watches you kind of tend to wonder, if it could have been a better idea to instead spend $300 or 400 and get one solid built watch by either seiko, tissot, hamilton with a good deal. But we all make those mistakes initially into the hobby, we just go by the spec and scream, "wow" so many things under $100, we improvise with our buying decisions as we progress because as mentioned, we definitely tend to appreciate the watch and the nuances each day as we keep wearing it. Really appreciate the video quality as most things are pretty evident without actually having to see the watch in person. Keep up the good work.
Omg bro ....cmon its 100 bucks.... and for that its golden..
I have this watch. Every time I look at it, I love it more
Nice video, good topic. I've owned this watch in the green version since it first came out, which I think was about 2 or so years ago. I original had two, with a black version also. I sold the black after about 4 months. I had no issue with either watch, and the green version I kept still works and looks great. Most of the issues you raised, like the mismatched lume are valid, but at this price point...really? What would you get with a Seiko, for a 1000USD more? An even poor spec and probably poorer made watch. Come on, it's Seiko; crappy bracelet and crappier clasp, misaligned markers, poor lume and an aluminum bezel insert and hardilex, or maybe sapphire for $1,100USD. Buy the Steeldiver, and get a nice Chris Ward with the left over $1,000.00!
I agree it's nice to have a warranty. It makes me feel all warm and comfy inside. However if you do get a warranty how easy is it to get in contact with the company and get warranty service or a replacement?.
I agree with almost all of your points but I draw a different conclusion. A niche in the marketplace exists for an automatic tool watch for about a hundred dollars. Seiko, et al. show no interest in satisfying the demand for an automatic tool watch for this niche. So another manufacturer (or manufacturers, or source of manufacturing) has stepped into this niche. These products would not exist if there were no demand. I know its not a Seiko. Although it is a close homage to an much more expensive watch I don't think it should be compared directly by reviewers OR the watch buyer.
This is a really good point. Some people don't want to spend more than $100 on a watch. So which Seiko should these people buy? There really aren't any anymore, except for some of their old 7s26 military/field Seiko 5s, and they're doing away with those too. I remember regularly being able to buy a ton of Seiko 5s for about $50-70 apiece not that many years ago. Now the exact same watches regularly go for about $100-150+, and usually towards the upper end of that range.
On a granular level, you’re spot on! I own two of these SD1970s and there are minor differences between each. On a whole they are both great watches, especially for the price. As your title suggests, I think this IS currently the best automatic watch you can buy for under $100, but things get shady when comparing to higher priced watches, especially from the design’s original manufacturer.
What a buzz kill. These are meant to be fun. As many others have observed, they are great beater watches.
Respect: A brutally honest review. My two sons and I have the SD1970...we each own one of the 3 available colours. I have regulated mine to within a few seconds a week: It is the most accurate automatic in my collection. For the price of these, I cannot think of anything that compares...
Thanks for this review! After JOMWs review i really regretted not getting it, but im glad you pointed all of this out. Content with my cushion case Vostok in this case
I believe that Tandorio's Willard is also very well done .. Better the sterile version. Very faithful asymmetrical case.
Good review. I purchased one with the black dial and was pleasantly surprised by the watch. Granted it is not a Captain Willard but for less than $100 I can’t complain. It took two weeks to get the watch here in the states. Keep up the good work.
I bought one during the 11.11 sales. Really good value for what you get. Sapphire crystal. Classic design which IMO is unlike any modern watch in case design. Mine is running +0.2SPD so far, yep you didn't misread that. Only con is hour hand is misaligned by a few minutes, will have to remove the hands and reinstall them when I have time. So in that sense I can agree with your QC argument.
Just in the process of upgrading from the SD1970 to the newer SD1970W model, which adds a day complication. By adding a milled-clasp, this is now my ultimate watch...
Personally I'n a fan of homage watches. You marketing and that's one expense that I don't want to pay for. Marketing doesn't add the functionality, just the cost. I've been using the Steeldive for a little over two years and it's been flawless. I don't mind the minor inconsistencies and I do like the fact that there are no alignment issues. I've had several Seikos and the lack of quality control has been shaky at best. For a brand as pricey as Seiko that is unforgivable. Yes, the bracelets are a disgrace but the Seikos sometimes have lousy bracelets as well. You might want to look at Cronos or San Martin. Both companies make great watches. Thanks for the great content.
I've had this for a year and a half, I rotate between the steel and waffle and love them both ways. It loses only three or four seconds a day, the size is perfect for me, and I love the lume. I got the no-logo version, no regrets. I've gone swimming several times with this without a problem.
I also own a Seiko 5, I get what you're saying re: authenticity and originality being important too. But the Steeldive doesn't owe me much and in truth the bracelet doesn't bother me either.
I'm happy to have stumbled on your page, I love your content on affordable watches! I just bought a Citizen Eco-Drive Corso Quartz Model: AT2141-52L. My watches are Fossil (first watches I started getting into) Bulova, and Citizen. My dream watch is a Omega!!
This is a great watch to mod as well, which is what I did. You have a very cool case shape, which is hard to come by on its own at the 100 dollar price point. You have the rock-solid nh35 movement, with hacking and hand wind. You have excellent water resistance (assuming you don't bugger up the seals), a sapphire crystal, and a dope bezel. Get yourself an identically sized replacement dial (which is what i did) and if you have the tools, build you own excellent, retro, beater automatic wristwatch.
Ooo maybe that's what I should do with this one.
Price vs what I got. For less than $400, I got 5 watches all with nh35 movements and some other good specs. One has a slight alignment issue of date, one has a bad lume. I would not worry about any of those watches breaking down in the future. I have 5 watches to switch vs 1 and it is much less likely to be hit, scratched or damaged.
As a self-admitted Seiko fan boy…these Chinese AliExpress-type brands simply “Out-Seiko the Seikos”. No misalignments, no QC issues at a FRACTION of the price.
Update: The bezel spring broke and no longer clicks. It is now a friction bezel - but still chugging along and looking great!
Good, balanced review...thanks
I have several steeldive and must say, no issues and I really like them, great lume and accuracy.
Picked one of these up for my youngest for last Christmas. His first proper watch. So it’s survived a year on the wrist of a 12/13 year old.
His is on a waffle so I can’t comment on the bracelet. I’d heartily recommend it as a everyday tool watch. I purchased from Steeldive U.K. which is the official agent here. Great customer service and shipping.
Homage means taking inspiration from and paying respects to, without actually copying. Many watch enthusiasts borrow it because they feel uncomfortable with the word copy but if copies are acceptable the word should be too.
I have a collection of vintage divers, mostly Seiko. I think you have missed the key point of the homage…it is compared to the original issue 6105-811x, not the Seiko re-issue. I own 4 vintage 6105-8xxx models,two of them very fine examples. But they are not suited for diving or daily wear. Parts are very hard to find, certainly NOS. Watertightness is not guaranteed. They lack refinements of hand winding, and screw down crown. Rarity and increasing dollar value make them unlikely to be worn. Having a Steeldive option to wear is a good thing. It is respectful to the original design, with improvements and refinements that add usability and value, and confidence. The price is very reasonable and it is truly a daily beater watch. Excellent choice. I think this watch has a place in any collectors world, as a beater.
I feel you are either ignoring the $100 price point or are missing the point on purpose?
He missed the point by a whole continent
I have one of these and it’s been great. Build quality is solid, finishing is pretty good, bezel action is also good. Only issue is the lume on the bezel insert markings started to discolor after a few days, and has patches of grey now. Still worth the $80 I paid
I got one and if it broke down I couldn't be bothered sending it back. So far it's great value and I love looking at it. And keeps time really well.
I like the style of your reviews. Not really a big watch guy myself, got maybe 10 watches accumulated over the years and none are over a few hundred bux.
Managing expectations is a key aspect to pretty much everything in life, but even more so when buying "budget" items. I think it was a great video, but I would have lead with your closing statement. It would have framed the criticisms correctly, so people understand why you're being picky with a sub $100 watch from the beginning.
I gave up on spec chasing when I bought a watch for a couple hundred CAD, that made me feel like I threw away my money. The specs were great, sapphire, 200m, NH71A, etc., but the total package was very disappointing. This is one of the biggest reasons I don't have any interest in the "homages"(I agree with you, they are copies, not replicas or homages).
3 different lume colors i see with old eyes and thats a plus for me the hands could be orange to make it even better. The flat black dial with applied indices full of lume, love it, ill keep the souls of my pray in those. And all bracelets pull hair until you seize it and then sweat on it. Until it sticks to where you want it. Good watch that looks and feels great.
I picked up a small skx a while back, great watch apart from the bracelet. I wanted to try out some modding so swaped out the dial for a seiko samurai one and replaced the bracelet. It really looks the part.
I bought this watch for the same reason. Great specs with a cheap price tag. Also, I can’t afford a Willard. Although I agree with most of what you said. It felt lackluster and felt happier with my other affordable watches that aren’t homages
What an impressive review! Well shot and even better editing. The watch is perfectly lit. I should be only watching your videos. Very professional, informative, and entertaining. That knife was so old world too! I bought an homage watch that is not even close. It was from an ad on social so I knew better. If I send it to you, will you review and warn others (or tell me I'm wrong) or are you too busy?
I like that even in the stock photo of the SPB153 that you use there is bezel/chapter ring/index misalignment.
I suspect the customer service responses are due to improper expectations. I bet that each one of the complaints about the movement accuracy are actually about a movement that is within the poor specs of an NH35, and a significant number of water incursions are due to a screwed out crown.
I wear SKMEI which is look like G-Shock. It cost me almost USD 4. It's been 2 yrs (since 2020) and it's still work well. I wear for daily (outdoor) activity. Now I'm waiting for SD1975.