Seiko Men's Analogue Automatic Self-Winding Watch with Stainless Steel Bracelet – SNXS73K

Product Information

Despite having all of these features, the SSK003 manages to stay relatively thin and affordable compared to other GMT watches. And it looks great while doing so! The majority of Seiko 5s have their crown at 4:00 instead of 3:00 like most watches. Although a bit unusual, this is a specific design trait of the 5 that makes the watch more comfortable to wear when on your wrist. Though few and far between, there are a few 5s that have a crown at 3:00, such as the SRPE35. But, I implore you to try the 4:00 crown before judging it. You may find you prefer it after all! Dimensions

While this has changed over time, the 5 in Seiko 5 represented the original 5 elements that were present in every watch: One of the first mechanical watches I ever bought for myself, the SNXS79, has an extremely luxurious and rich-looking sunburst anthracite dial.

It’s hard to go wrong with a watch with such classic dimensions that looks great on any wrist, looks great on just about any strap and happens to be one of the most affordable automatic watches you can buy. Along with its all-polished case, this watch is often compared as a budget alternative to the much more expensive Rolex Oyster Perpetual, which typically costs around 5 figures. The dial is an anthracite grey, similar to the SNXS79, which is rich and complex and changes colors slightly in different light scenarios. While some Seiko 5 watches are a bit too small, and others too large, the SRPE series fits right in between at 40mm. This is the sweet spot for most people’s wrists and is one of the most popular watch sizes today.

You may have noticed there are two different types of Seiko 5, the regular with a “5” badge logo, and those with a Seiko 5 Sports logo. How do these two differ? Its pinstripe tuxedo dial adds texture and interest to an otherwise simple and classic design. This is the perfect watch for someone who wants something simple, yet elegant and refined.

Seiko 5 Sports is usually reserved for the Seiko 5s with at least 100 meters of water resistance, and the slightly upgraded 4R36 movement. Regular Seiko 5s more often have only 30 or 50 meters of water resistance, and often include the 7S26 movement. The case has a combination of both brushed and polished finishes that are done impeccably well—almost a little too well for the price. The flat brushed surfaces are offset by curved polished areas, which allow the watch to catch light in a way that resembles a luxury watch much more than other watches of this caliber. While many of us might not need such an apparatus on our watch, one that our phones can likely do better for us non-divers, I like using it to time how much time is left for food in the oven, or how much time I have left in a parking meter.