Almost Perfect Rolex Explorer Alternative | Seiko Alpinist SPB117
Almost Perfect Rolex Explorer Alternative | Seiko Alpinist SPB117
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What do you guys think is a better alternative? Let us know!
@user-go9tc3cw4b
4 жыл бұрын
Tissot Gentleman, it compromised on water resistance but it's dressier. Pls do a review.
@michaelfierman3256
4 жыл бұрын
I'm leaning towards Rado Captain Cook 37mm
@othonmartinez3084
4 жыл бұрын
Longines Conquest for sure
@cowboyswami2017
4 жыл бұрын
Im going wit Damasko DS30 with the submarine steel. Deff a sleeper but hardcore rugged watch.
@Ace2021
4 жыл бұрын
Original SARB017
I used to hate the cyclops window on watches. Then I got older.
@cezzarmicu
2 жыл бұрын
Same! I’m 42 and I love the cyclops now - to think I sold a watch before just because it had it (cyclops) haha
@Xanduur
11 ай бұрын
55 and I NEED the Cyclopes.
@abbs4552
8 ай бұрын
Broooo I felt this
@Max0800
6 ай бұрын
🤣
I just learned about the Alpinist in April and it didn't measure largely on my radar screen. But that was because I really didn't know much about it. For Seiko enthusiasts to compare it to the Rolex Explorer is a pretty bold statement. I admit that I wasn't sure it was appropriate, but the more I've learned about it, the more I was convinced that--for the price--it was a better choice. I do like the way it looks, although I am leaning towards toward the green dial model. AB--as always--presents a solid review without any snobbery. I've watched dozens and dozens of YT reviews now and he keeps things on an even keel. Not many of us can afford a Rolex. They make great watches for sure, but for those of us looking for something a little lower in MSRP, these reviews are very helpful. Great work.
I have enjoyed the Alpinist 017 for a year. The green grows on you, and It’s a reminder, every time I wear it, why I still like Seiko. I see comments about dropping the cathedral hands… I personally think that would be a huge mistake as I think it adds to the refined look, and they are actually A throwback to early field watches. Thanks for the great review! John
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
I agree with you! While the hands could be polarizing. It is iconic to the Alpinist. Thanks for watching John!
I've been eying this one for a quite some time! The Cyclops doesn't bother me at all and I actually like the splash of red on the dial. What I wished you showed: some wristshots from top down, also a closer look on that bracelet. And I always appreciate it when someone shows a watch in natural lighting. This way, we can see how the watch actually looks like. Still, very nice camera work here, I appreciate it :)
Best alpinist so far. One of the best seikos at this price.
@jonasthemovie
Жыл бұрын
If only the crown was at 4, compass at 2 and the dial said Alpinist instead of X
The SPB119 Alpinist is so beautiful!!
I have a Seiko sarbo35 and love it . Looks like a Rolex OP to me .
Great content and micros, great job and thank you!
That black dial is nice. I like the red and it plays nice with the red digits. But then again I’m fond of red. Thanks for the vid!
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching buddy!
Your filmmaking is top-drawer. Thank you for amazing work
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much man!
Regarding the splash of red on the dial, Seiko missed the opportunity to put “alpinist” on the dial. The Prospex X has no business being on such a long-standing line of watches in my opinion.
@justinscott9151
4 жыл бұрын
Agreed, Seiko should take it off the dial and put it on the crown. Subtle, classy, and unexpected.
@markashton6853
3 жыл бұрын
I agree 👍
I thought the cyclop is pretty cool and definitely help with the legibility. Great review, thank you!
I like all the new versions and colors but IDK about the price. I got my original 017 last year and the green and gold dial is so classy. I also got the 035 last year and glad I did. These are great watches and I think that 10 to 15 years down the road could appreciate in value as they will be future classics.
Great video AB. I am not a big fan of the Alpinist no matter what the dial color is. I am with you in looking forward to the release of the new model without the rotating bezel. I wish they could make it in about a 36-37mm case. I will take the Smiths Everest as my alternative to a Rolex Explorer. Thanks again AB, Brian.
Wait another 20 years, you will appreciate the cyclops, and not everything is rolex ripoff
I love my 017! This one looks great too, but after putting a Vario strap, Harris wool, in pecan, on it I can't stop looking at it!
I love Seiko but not the biggest fan of the Alpinist. Well the green and gold version Stimm is awesome but like as well the black version. As usual a great review bro, videography at its best, keep up the good work 👍🏻👍🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Lovely review keep them coming! As for the watch personally I think the cumpus is a waste, That extra nob takes away the clean lines on otherwise a perfect time peice!!
Love my sarb017, will get one of these when the price drops.(tho as someone else points out in the comments it's cheap compared to my Khaki king) Don't like the fugly cyclops (even tho I'm old enough to need it, it's an abomination IMHO)... Shame this new generation don't say "Alpinist" on them, but I'm used to the prospex logo on my other watches so that doesn't bother me.. Excellent video, stay healthy 👍🏻
Another great review, not loving the price point. However I appreciate the upgrades. Would have love to see the caseback and lume.
May i ask if you prefer this one or the baby Alpinist black dial with black leather strap?. I'm on the fence of buying an Alpinist, and torn which one between the two I will buy. Your recommendation will be a big help.
why is it ticking so oddly at 6:37? did you slow the video down?
Gott the 119 cream dial in the post, can't wait😁👍 No signed crown? No problem and I am sure there will be some mods at some point. Crystal cyclops isn't an issue as I don't own a watch with this feature. Price? That depends on what you want out of a watch, is a 50m Hamilton Khaki King worth £450 if this is £570?
What type of illumination is used on the dial? Does it stay visible through the night?
I love this variation on bracelet, but I wish they didn't put the cyclops-ish date window anymore.
Does the 2nd crown wiggles a bit?
Great content as always!
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
Got one a month ago. Love it!!! The cyclop didnt bother me but I think its a bit thick. Wish they didnt put the see thru case back and retain the same thinest as before. Oh and also the clasp has too little micro adjust... it just doesn't fit right....not a deal breaker though. Overall a great watch if you get it at a good price. I got it for around 500$ second hand(mint)
i think it's more an alternative for rolex op and omega at in terms of its design. rolex op was a mountaineers watch back then by the way. overall, with its unique design and historical background, alpinist is one of the ultimate everyday watches, that deserves to be mentioned among those legends. i liked the cyclops addition, which imho gives the watch a more tooly vibe anyway. i just wish, they put into that beauty a better movement than 6r35. alpinist deserves that.
Nice review!
Hiya buddy. Are the end links solid or hollow plse. Also, what is best, most rugged watch, this or Hamilton khaki? Thank you
Thanks for thevideo. I've missed the part with the accuracy of the new movement. How did it do with accuracy?
Just brought one of these... got it at 25% under RRP. Brilliant watch... really happy with it. Personally, I like the cyclops.
You’ll appreciate, maybe even need, the cyclops in 20 - 30 years. It is a necessity for many of us older folks.
I just bought the white one, not so sure about this movement. It is relatively accurate measured over a week period, however when reading the data on a timegrapher the results are all over the place, so much that I thought the watch arrived broken. After few Orients I am not very satisfied with my subjective feel about the build quality as nothing is in line with anything, the cyclops is off as well, the movement I mentioned earlier, none of this is present on my 3 Orients, even on much less expensive one. Built like a tank? A workhorse? Tough? Robust? Not so sure, but it is a beautiful watch non the less.
Just got this at $600 US, Like the size quite similar to Old Rolex datejust 39.5mm for my 6.5 inch wrist! Simple Crisp black dial, seems like they're coming up a newer model without the compass ring inside at 38mm. An even more simple look but still prefer with the compass ring!
I would love to see a review or at least get your thoughts on the Alpinist without the rotating bezel. The spdc115.
The black and cream dials are gorgeous. I am tempted to buy both. That's insane, but hey this is an addiction not a hobby lol.
@Yos115
3 жыл бұрын
I'm exactly the same haha. They're different enough I think because of the different straps (I'll keep both stock) and the Arabic numerals on the cream dial version.
@brett2396
3 жыл бұрын
I thought I was the only one 😂 I'm debating buying both
Did I miss the lume shot? That's a big deal. How good is it? It's a must have for a review.
Awesome video my friend. I would want one I could pair with a two tone bracelet and no cyclops.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend!
I like the last one, can get it new for 500€ shall I get it? Can this watch increase in value or at least not be sold for less than half the price when I will sell it in second hand?
helpful review!
Really cool watch bro. The rotating non-locking compass makes me crazy (not n a good way) cyclops is dumb. Everything else is great! Great review. THANKS!
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching bro!
IMO the red 20 Bar and in other details adds more character to the watch :)
I quite like the gilt cream version. I just wish they would get rid of the compass. I know that they are making some non-compassed alpinists, but they don’t have the applied indexes or any gilt dials
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Perhaps in the future they will have applied markers! Unfortunately as you said, the new ones will have printed
Looks awesome on the wrsit
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Agreed! Thanks for watching Tom!
I love it I'm so pleased I got one
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Enjoy it in good health Tom!
The green one is better looking. More unique I must say.
What song is used in the intro i love the content
Cool review. Do you think will this work wearing a black suit?
I love the watch but hate the cyclops. Is it possible to put in a new lens without the cyclops? I would take it to a watch repair shop but don’t know where to buy the lens.
I like this watch and actually don’t mind the cyclops. If only the compass had a screw-down crown (as my Hamilton GMT does), I would have loved it. That compass that rotates freely, whenever, is too much for my finicky obsessiveness with my watches. Thanks for the review.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching buddy!
@toonlad4091
4 жыл бұрын
There has to be a way to mod this, keeping the bezel still or giving more resistance to the crown.🤔
@TheShotenZenjin
4 жыл бұрын
If you actually use the compass function, it needs to rotate fairly freely to make the necessary movements to locate north.
@edteach3r
4 жыл бұрын
TheShotenZenjin : Thanks for the reply. I agree, but I don’t see the point if the compass moves inadvertently when it scuffs against your trousers while walking, for example. As I said, the compass bezel on my Hammy locks into place by screwing in the bezel. It takes just a few seconds to unscrew it, make the necessary adjustment and screw it back in. An added bonus is that the screw-in crown on the compass (as well as on the watch function) provides 200m water resistance.
I wish the second hand was all red... Would be stunning...
Cool watch, but I don't like micro second hash marks.
What is the pusher used for ? Nice looking watch but if I were going into mountains I would use a g shock!
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
It rotates the inner compass. Thanks for watching Ray 😁
This model alpinist will pee all over Rolex explorer any day! The quality is all there, in looks and feel on the wrist. Crazy price for what you get! Mines running at +2/4 sec in 5 positions, amazing! If this watch had been made with a printing on the dial with the words "swiss made"? I'm sure it will be in the price range of £2000/£4000. If it had the brand rolex on there? You'll be bumped further! Don't forget? These watches are Seiko's in-house movement. Not a single thing has been imported from outside, to in-house.
Nice watch, nice video
This is a better version of the Alpinist with upgrades. Seiko also produced 2 new colors with strap variations, so it is understandable that the new ones are more expensive. You can't produce upgraded products and price them at the same price as older inferior ones. I personally love the cyclops and the red on the dial. The black Alpinist is sure to be a collector's piece.
Great review. Would you still recommend the sarb17?
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Absolutely! Great watch for the price
@craig2100
4 жыл бұрын
@@watchcollectingstrategy thanks. Keep up the great content!!!Big Fan
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend! Really appreciate your support
For someone who wants the function of the explorer but without the worry of getting stabbed for it on the mean streets of South East London....this is perfect
@NCSheriff7
23 күн бұрын
Getting stabbed over a fucking Explorer? 🥴Leave the country
The ones without the compass bezel were all taken down. Any clue if Seiko will be releasing them, or is Tag Heuer gonna sue them for design theft?
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Hopfully soon! Those looked awesome
My question to anyone reading - would you actually wear this backpacking? Although not terribly expensive, I am somewhat reluctant to take a watch of this price point into the backcountry.
hi, may I ask if it's robust to allow drops from height about 1.2m, 2~3 times in 6months period and still hold it's accuracy? Thanks for any replies..
@deanwaller8283
3 жыл бұрын
No,no mechanical watch is supposed to be dropped,why are you dropping it to start with??
@philmu1983
3 жыл бұрын
@@deanwaller8283 no, I didn't drop it on purpose. it just happened occasionally by accident due to my negligence when I took it out from my wrist.
Common AB no case back, no talk or show for the clasp, about end links, links pin and color system, pricing and websites you can purchase it from. I am not a critic but I can see your passion and I am trying to tell you what I think can make your review better.. Set your complete watch description format. I think there was no lug width also.... Your camera and production work is better then most but your description and content is for a enthusiast..make the content for enthusiast and layman both who knows nothing about watches and accidently watch your video... Let's say even a simple hacking feature is something you should always mention in one line for the audience that the second hand will stop and the video should be showing it you doing it for couple of seconds... The clasp butterfly or fold over, push button whatever it is milled or stamped.. How many adjustments.. half links or not.. the case back text, engraving , see through, polished or brushed in this case I think a see through polished screw down case back. Don't take it seriously you know better what you are going for.. I like your camera work
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for the constructive criticism buddy. I know you are looking out! I am in the middle of filming and your comment reminded me to film a bunch of close ups
@oldestpunkinargentina7766
4 жыл бұрын
Measurements are paramount !
@lowersaxon
4 жыл бұрын
Well, yes. Agreed. „ I think its a good watch“. 🤔
Problem I have with this watch is the "disappearing" nature of its markers in low light.
I agree with you about the cyclops. Cheapens the aesthetics.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching buddy!
if it wasn't for the cyclops, I would've purchased the green dial variant ages ago
Perhaps is not a real comparison but I rather go for Hamilton Khaki King II. I am not a fan of the cyclops, plus no sapphire crystal? Outstanding review.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
It does have sapphire👍 Hard to go wrong with the iconic Khaki King
@luisbperez368
4 жыл бұрын
Watch Collecting Strategy woops my bad. Thanks
No cyclops and black date wheel with white numbers would make it perfect for me.
I actually don't mind the Prospex logo and I think most people are on that boat, with a very noisy minority that loathe it. However, Seiko should migrate it to the upper half of the dial, directly below the SEIKO logo.
74 hours power reserve or 70 hours?
Honestly if you’re willing to forgive no AR coating and no sapphire glass, the SARB033 is a better Explorer alternative. I know it’s no longer in production but plenty of stock is available.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
That is a great option for sure! I think the Sarb033 is a perfect alternative to the datejust actually but it works with the Explorer as well. Thanks for watching buddy!
@yashara1e
4 жыл бұрын
Sarb033 I think has Sapphire
@othonmartinez3084
4 жыл бұрын
SARB033 has sapphire
@kubipro5880
4 жыл бұрын
The sarb033 have sapphire.
@eyeheartsushi2212
4 жыл бұрын
Watch Collecting Strategy Some guy on Reddit was recently selling a modded SARB033 with fluted bezel and cyclops. Took it all the way to DateJustLand hahaha
What’s wrong with the Tisell Explorer as a less expensive Rolex Explorer alternative?
@maitrehg
3 жыл бұрын
Alternative or crappy homage ?
you know you can just remove the cylops right?
I have this watch and it’s a killer. I love it so much I wanna get another one the same. It’s so awesome I actually gave my Sarb017 to my wife, haha.
@darrenwood3984
3 жыл бұрын
The wife just bought me this watch for my 50th birthday
@tezzanewton
3 жыл бұрын
Darren Wood so what’s the verdict mate? Do you like it?
@darrenwood3984
3 жыл бұрын
@@tezzanewton I already own a seiko watch with a white face it's similar but I like the black face on the alpinist. Very reliable watches had my first seiko since 2004 still going strong, I'm glad I went for another seiko as I was tempted by a tag heur.
Change that round handset and this is a hit.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
I would enjoy pencil hands! But I feel like the hands are iconic to the Alpinist
@kubipro5880
4 жыл бұрын
@@watchcollectingstrategy classic dolphin hands are also good like Sarb033 or something else like seiko sgeh49p1 sword hands.
Missing the even numbered hour markers. Might like it more if they kept that aspect of the sarb017
You should have included how to use the compass. It is another highlight and function of the watch.
Just warm the cyclops up by either touching it with a soldering iron for a few seconds or a small blow torch, it will soften the glue and will just pop off with a knife. Don't get it too hot, you don't need to.
Beautiful piece. Great review (and I agree the cyclops doesn’t look right on this watch
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching Rob!
Wait, but what about the cyclops?
I have expected this watch a lot but in the end I didn't grab one. I think it's still a fair choice for newcomers of this hobby.
@seavee2190
3 жыл бұрын
Newcomers.. get out
Seiko movements are not as accurate as Tudor or Rolex movements. The only one I've seen that comes close consistently are their Spring Drive movements. Notice I said consistently, because you can get a random Seiko movement that runs at +2/-2. Otherwise I'd agree with you. Without the accurate movement, the looks aren't worth it.
Its so fantastic of its 😅😅😅😅74 hours
So you're saying... you like the cyclops window
Nice watch but never been a fan of the hour hand (shape).
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Fair enough! The hands are definitely a polarizing design👍
@othonmartinez3084
4 жыл бұрын
not liking that hour hand on the alpinist is the same as not liking mercedes hands on a rolex, it's part of what makes the alpinist an alpinist IMO.
@imranpatel3605
4 жыл бұрын
Othon Martinez You maybe right but i am on about aesthetically pleasing. And this isn’t ( obviously IMO)
@steelstunners1862
4 жыл бұрын
The ‘Condom’ hand? Really wish that was gone
I like the old green one better. But for the price of a new one u could get a Swiss automatic chronograph with valjoux movement on the gray market
@seavee2190
3 жыл бұрын
Swiss movements suck..
74 hrs are you just ok dude❤😮😮
That was really fantastic videography. the macro especially. I love the high polish, don't mind the cyclops. It's actually even the right size for my small wrist, but I truly hate the font of that Automatic. The red is pretty ugly as well. The indices are gorgeous. But when I look at the face, the first thing I see is the hideous text. It's a shame. deal breaker since I am looking for my next watch. Keep up the great work. Love your channel.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much Michael! Really happy you like the channel
@michaelfierman3256
4 жыл бұрын
@@watchcollectingstrategy maybe I should look at the other dial colors before I reject this watch.
@michaelfierman3256
4 жыл бұрын
did you see the Grand Seiko Spring Drive Limited Edition SBGA385 Grand Seiko review on WatchBox today? It might be the most stunning thing I have seen in a long time
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
I didn't see the review. But like you said, that watch is absolutely stunning!!!! Too bad it has a heafty price tag to go with it, otherwise it would make it's way in my personal collection
@michaelfierman3256
4 жыл бұрын
Watch Collecting Strategy yeah it’s about as perfect a watch ever
The gap between the end links and the case is a bit too big for the price point.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Not sure where you see the gap, could you point out where it is obvious. I can't seem to see it. Thanks for watching tho Christian!
@christianrodriguez3531
4 жыл бұрын
@@watchcollectingstrategy Maybe calling it a gap is overly harsh but the tolerances for those end links look way off in the video. Great filming and editing by the way, love your videos.
A nice enough watch, but it would be better without the useless compass feature and the ugly second crown. Also, the cyclops really doesn't work for this watch. The main reason the Explorer is so revered is its simplicity. It doesn't do much, but what is does do it does perfectly.
Great looking video, as usual. But you’ve been all about Seiko (and Grand Seiko) lately.
@watchcollectingstrategy
4 жыл бұрын
Next few reviews won't be 😁👍
This is what l would change to perfect the Alpinist. 1. Put the solid case back on with the mountain logo. 2. Change compass to diver style internal bezel. 3.replace 5,10,15 numerals behind markers with military time indications. 4. Keep 6r15 movement. See , I did this for free with no prior training. Will Seiko listen to me ?
@othonmartinez3084
4 жыл бұрын
1-hell yes. 2- it's an alpinist, not a diver. it destroys its purpose 3-i would have to see it first, can't imagine how it wouldlook 4--yes, I like the 6r15 lots. my two design changes -remove the cyclops -remove the prospex logo.
@ref6122
4 жыл бұрын
I do a ton of hiking and mountain climbing. I use the diving bezel to time length of hikes, how long from point A to point B. Cooking times for meals ect. In reality it’s just a timing bezel ,very useful.
In my opinion...
You can remove cyclops.
The cyclops just adds an undesirable look imo. I really wish it were optional for some of these models
The Smiths is not a bad watch, Explorer infused look.
saw this in person... not impressed. Only the green dial was interesting... but it's nothing special.
Can i random swimming and shower with this watch ?? Or scuba diving ?? Suggest me please