Top 20 Seiko Watches That Offer Impressive Value | Tried & Tested By Me!
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If you’re in the market for a new watch, chances are you’ve heard of Seiko. The Japanese juggernaut has been pumping out timepieces for over 100 years, and they’re just as popular now as ever.
In fact, it seems like they’re releasing new models on a near-daily basis. While most of these are fairly decent, their ever-expanding catalog has left me wondering…just what are the very best Seiko watches when it comes to pure value for money? If I had to choose about 20 affordable options out of the thousands available, which would I go with?
Well, I’ve spent the last few months scouring the Seiko range, to answer that very question. Today I’ll be revealing my picks. Twenty interesting Seikos that all bring something unique to the table without obliterating your bank account. I’ve personally tried and tested all of them, to ensure they don’t suck. They’re all affiliate linked throughout this article if you want to check any of them out.
Seiko is probably best known for dive watches, boasting a wider selection than ever before. Unfortunately, many don’t fit the theme of this post. Their entry-level divers aren’t so entry-level in terms of cost these days, while the more premium alternatives are infamously susceptible to bezel misalignment, which is incredibly annoying.
Seiko SRPD Divers
The SRPD range of dive-style watches is one of the few sub-$400 options available nowadays. These were controversially introduced a few years back as a more expensive replacement to the fan-favorite SKX line, but it’s actually a pretty decent watch on its own. True, the downgraded 100m water resistance rating is a bummer, but the case finishing is better, the dials are much more detailed, and the movement has also been upgraded over its predecessor. This is very much a fashion-forward diver, evident by the enormous range of radical colors and variants available, with this SRPD73 being a particular standout with its gradient dial and faux-patina lume.
With a 41mm bezel and 42.4mm width, it may sound massive, however, it’s got a comparatively tiny 45.8mm lug to lug, making it wear a fair amount smaller. If you want to go smaller still, it may be worth opting for the newly released ‘SKX Midi’, which is essentially the downsized version of this same watch with identical specs and performance. At just 37.5mm wide and with a 44mm lug to lug, it’s a perfect match for thin wrists. The color roster for these isn’t as developed yet, but there are a handful of options to pick from.
Seiko Turtle/Mini Turtle
Another viable budget option is the Seiko Turtle and, if you can find it, the Mini-Turtle. Heralding from the Prospex range, these distinctive divers offer great presence, without clunkily overhanging your wrist. Unlike the lower-rated SRPD divers, the Turtle watches offer the full 200m diver-standard water resistance rating, with screw-down crowns for extra peace of mind.
At their regular retail price, these watches offer good value, though Chinese dive watch brands tend to offer better specs for less money. That said, simply due to the brand prestige, the resale value of these Seikos is far better. Since we featured the diminutive Mini Turtle, it’s unfortunately been discontinued. As such, you may have to venture into the used market to get your hands on that one. If you’re after a wide watch squeezed into a stout package, it may still be worth a punt.
A category where Seiko shines is dress watches. They know how to design a sleek timepiece and boy, do I have some lesser-known options for you to fawn over.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time 39.5mm
The best dial I’ve encountered is probably that on the Presage Cocktail Time 39.5mm version that I reviewed last year. This blue version, nicknamed ‘The Aviation’ has a killer microscopic dial texture and blue sunburst, which comes alive in natural sunlight. The rest of the watch is middle-of-the-road at best, but the swanky aesthetic and the neatly frosted handset help carry it clear of the pack.
It’s a versatile size already, though there are also alternative versions in the Cocktail Time range available in 40.5mm and 38.5mm, if you’d prefer shifting to one side of the spectrum. It’s quite slim for an automatic, which never hurts, though I’d probably factor in the cost of a third-party strap, as the included butterfly clasp doesn’t allow you to fine-tune the bracelet size.
SRK050
Something you won’t have seen before is this, the SRK050. Again, the build quality of this piece is pretty mid. When combined with the inclusion of a quartz movement, it feels very light in the hands, I must say. Unlike your mum taught you though, when it comes to dress watches, looks…they are everything!
This one has an awesome, retro pocket watch vibe that helps it look far more expensive than the humble price tag. There aren’t many watches with a comparable design that pull it off so well, and the super-thin 8mm case allows this to slip under any sleeve.
By some miracle, despite the underwhelming case construction, I can confirm that this watch has a top-of-the-line sapphire crystal, we tested it! Goodness knows why this random quartz watch gets a decent crystal, while many more expensive mechanicals are relegated to Hardlex, but I guess it’s a boon for the SRK050 The gold case looks great, the 5bar water resistance is alright for a dress watch, and the black-tipped crown is something you don’t see everyday, either.
SNE520
From vintage-inspired to hip and stylish, we move to the SNE520. This model featured in our best minimalist watches roundup, as it’s got some interesting touches, such as the curved outer chapter ring, super-thin hands, and sapphire crystal. In fact, while serviceable as a dress watch, this one functions rather well as an all-rounder, with a surprisingly high water resistance rating and a super-practical solar-powered movement, providing accurate time with no frequent battery changes. Unlike it’s predecessor, the SNE479, the 520 also has a standard bracelet rather than an integrated one, which you can swap out if you feel like it.
SRPH89
Another underrated option is this, the SRPH89. This automatic comes in a similar dark green color and is a staple in many jewelry stores, as well as a best seller on Amazon, despite rarely featuring in social media content for some reason. While not listed as a part of any specific range, the SRPH89 is a Presage-level timepiece despite costing considerably less money. If anything, the case here feels better constructed, with neater edges and cleaner polishing than the Cocktail Time watch I mentioned earlier. The dial is really nice too, with a clean sunburst that’s tricky to convey on camera but looks premium in person; though I wouldn’t say it’s quite as exuberant as those present on the Presage models.
The SRPH89 isn’t as sleek either, with a thicker bezel and chunkier profile, though the water resistance is higher, at 10 bar, and the bracelet is marginally better too, with better finishing and adjustability. It even carries over the half-frosted hands, a rare inclusion in a watch at this price, enhancing the watch’s legibility and appearance.
SUR390 Series
There’s also what appears to be a quartz version of this watch, in the form of the SUR390 series. If you’re after a super-clean dress option, this is more than serviceable as it goes even further down the minimalist path, doing away with all dial text outside of the logo.
I personally lean towards the previous watch, but if you’re after a viable Daniel Wellington or ‘fashion watch’ alternative, then this could be right up your alley. It’s really thin, at only 8.5mm, though the water resistance is lower than the automatic, at 5bar. Both of these watches come in a range of other colors, too, if these don’t tickle your fancy.
SUR457
From a Presage pretender, we now move to a Grand-Seiko lookalike, which comes by way of the SUR457. Now I got this one at a bargain price of under $200, and I can’t promise that you’ll get quite such a good deal. That’s because this one is a limited edition model to celebrate the 140th anniversary of Seiko. I’ve seen a couple of reviews saying this watch is made of titanium. They’re wrong, as this is just steel, with a steel bracelet too, but it is a looker, with a design reminiscent of some Grand Seiko models, for a fraction of the price. While the dial lacks the intricate surface of the higher-end pieces, it still has an extremely bright silver sunburst and a reflective blue rehaut, which help this one to catch the eye from a distance.
Meanwhile, the case has a similar layout too, with a high-polish bezel and chamfered flanks, which further the illusion. Unlike the higher-end mechanicals and Spring Drives, the SUR457 is really thin thanks to the compact quartz movement, though it’s not packing any special movement features. Still, water resistance is good at 10 bar, as is the sapphire crystal. If you want a taster of that Grand Seiko coolness without jumping to a completely different brand, this is probably the lowest-priced entry point.
Seiko SUR319
It’s worth knowing that this SUR series continues beyond this limited edition piece. Indeed, there are a range of other dressy watches under this designation, that offer the same dauphine-hand design in less exclusive colors.
There are different sizes too, which is where the SUR319 comes in. While the 457 was well suited to average and large arms, at 40mm in diameter, similar to some other SUR models, the 319 is a mere 35.7mm, making it a viable option for small wrists. Again, it has that popular Rolex Datejust-like case shape and steel bracelet, just in a reduced package.
SNXS77
While we’re on the topic of Rolex lookalikes, we have to talk about the Seiko 5 SNXS series watches. Now, if you’re after a carbon copy of the Datejust, these are viable choices. They stray into everyday watch territory and look very similar to that luxury design at a glance, so if that’s all you care about, don’t let me hold you back. These have received a lot of acclaim purely for this resemblence.
Still, there are two reasons I would think twice before pulling the trigger. First, there’s the case. The one on the SNXS sucks. The finishing is rudimentary, and the shape means the watch stands awkwardly high off the wrist. Second, the SNK361 exists.
SNK361
The SNK361 is similar to the SNXS in many ways, but is a slightly better choice. While the dial looks marginally less Rolex-y, the case shape is far nicer and more Rolex-like with thicker shoulders, if that’s what you’re looking for. It conforms to your arm way better and looks much more expensive. In a similar manner, there’s an array of microscopic 5s spread across the surface, giving this watch a level of macro texture that you’ll rarely see on watches at this price.
In person, the watch looks killer and it comes in the same colors (white, blue and gold) as the SNXS watches, so you can just go with whichever you want. Neither are leaders on the spec sheet, with low water resistance and a relatively dated automatic movement. But, their Hardlex crystal is better than standard mineral glass, meaning they’re better than some rival brands…and they’re usually cheap! They’re also both 37mm, so they’ll fit all but the largest of wrists.
SNKL45
Another Seiko 5 worth highlighting is the SNKL45, which is like a budget version of the now-discontinued but highly-popular SARB033. Same performance as the previous two, but with that sharper handset and a sleek black dial.
SNKL23
Still, the most popular of these old-school Seiko 5s is undoubtedly the SNKL23. This watch went viral back in 2015 due to the unbelievably attractive, well-executed design for very little cash. The subtly striped outer ring proved especially popular, though the praise faded when the watch was discontinued a few years later. Luckily, Seiko revived the design a while ago and you can now purchase this legendary budget beast once more. For how long, nobody quite knows!
Like the other Seiko 5s, this one is still quite small and only has run-of-the-mill specs by modern standards, but the design really holds up. The crown can be compressed to such a degree that the watch almost looks perfectly symmetrical too. My only real complaint was the unnecessary lug gap between the case and strap, but aside from that, it’s a watch that looks the part, without the price tag. In other words, a perfect fit for this list.
SRPE57 “DressKX”
Another option that happily straddles between smart and casual is the SRPE series, which includes this, the SRPE57. Known colloquially as the “DressKX”, this is pretty much a Seiko SKX, or more accurately, it’s replacement, the SRPD, with the rotating bezel substituted for a smooth one. Somehow it works quite well, and a few minor changes have allowed it to accommodate this switch surprisingly well.
It’s not my favorite on this list, but it certainly has some of that Tudor Black Bay feel, and the sunburst blue dial on this variant is very striking, too. Just like the previous SRPD, the case finishing here is more than good enough, with an exhibition rear, in case you want to see what’s going on inside. This watch is a best-seller and is an easy way to add a sprinkle of sportiness to your wardrobe.
SNKE56
If you’re after something flashier, then there is another Seiko 5 worth considering. That’s right, the SNKE56. All gold, all bling, and thanks to the compact size, it’s not too gaudy either. I definitely have a soft spot for these gold watches, and while they aren’t actually made of gold, it’s basically a gold-colored coating; they can look fashionable in the right situations. The only thing to remember with these watches is that scratches on the gold plating or coating will appear more prominently than those on a normal silver-coloured case.
SNK371
Perhaps my favorite everyday Seiko is the SNK371. This sporty watch has bundles of character, thanks to the colorful 20-minute track down the top-right edge, which looks like it was pulled straight out of Ridge Racer. R4 is just unbelievably fun by the way; you have to try it, the soundtrack is phenomenal.
Nerdiness aside, this watch stands out with its vibrant blue paint job and white arrow hour hand. It’s also got perfectly proportioned numbers above each marker, to coincide with the timing bar, though counter-intuitively, this watch isn’t a chronograph in any way, so it’s mainly there for show. Still, I think this thing looks incredibly cool for the money, as do the white and black colorways, which use a red track instead. To my knowledge, this watch seems like a re-cased SNKK27, also known as the “Speed Racer”, as both share an identical dial. The one I have here uses the same case as some of the Seikos mentioned earlier, whereas the SNKK27 is a tad larger, with a thicker bezel, bringing it to 38.5mm. I think this one looks marginally sexier, but I’ll let you decide.
Rumor has it the better-known Speed Racer is now discontinued despite being available on many grey market sites, so I’d imagine the SNK371 is in a similar boat. If there’s one watch I’d urge you to try while you can, it’s this one. Very, very glad I got to try it; it’s awesome.
SUR503
Another awesome dial is present on the SUR503P1. This is a radical departure from the previous SUR models I mentioned, with an extreme design that involved deep, grooved cutouts at the circumference and an aggressively angled case. The SUR503 has barely any reviews online; it seems nobody has discovered it yet, and boy, are they missing out! Just look at this monster! It’s got to be one of the most experimental dials you can get for the money, with the aforementioned cutaway sections revealing a finely ribbed microtexture beneath. Even the hour markers have a vertically grooved surface, as well as a uniquely placed lume pip baked into the top half of the 12 index. Together with the glossy coating used towards the edges and the high polish on the hands, you’re left with a deceptively high-end appearance despite the low cost.
Powering the SUR503 is a simple quartz movement, and it only rocks a Hardlex mineral crystal. The custom 22mm bracelet is also a little cumbersome on this 40mm watch, though it does provide somewhat of an integrated bracelet illusion without any restrictions. The shape and brushing are well-tailored to the main body, which itself is very well-finished for an entry-level Seiko, far surpassing most others on this list. It’s entirely brushed outside of the bezel, but it puts some of their other models to shame.
Complex, but not cluttered is the best way to describe this one. Alternate colors are available, some with different bezels and straps.
SNK809/SNZG09
For years, there were two of these holding the fort on the budget end of things. The SNK800 series and the SNZG series. The SNK800 series was your smaller field/pilot hybrid, available for virtually no money, while the SNZG lineup offered more water resistance and better low-light performance in a larger 42mm package.
Both of these watches have entry-level finishing but if you can find them for the right price, they’re still a solid choice. Nevertheless, prices have rocketed in the last couple of years, as they’ve effectively been displaced by the next generation of Seiko 5 models.
SRPH31
While I reviewed the SRPG33 in a dedicated comparison blog post, I’d instead recommend opting for the far better-looking SRPH31. This pilot watch effectively reimagines the SNK800 series with prettier visuals and improved finishing. The sword hands are a new addition, along with the improved two-tone luminescence and updated Seiko logo arrangement. In terms of quality, the strap is a huge step up, too. This nylon-leather hybrid is leagues better than the scratchy bands adorning the last-gen originals, and should be far more durable, which is much appreciated. Unlike the SNK800 series that inspired it, this refresh actually has good aquatic performance at 10 bar, though it doesn’t improve upon the hardlex crystal, though it is stylishly domed this time around.
Size-wise, this one sits bang in the middle of those previous two, at a palatable 39.4mm, with a 47.7mm lug to lug and 13.2mm thickness, including the crystal. Again, it comes in a few colors (black, green and black/orange), I’ve also looked at the green one before now, the SRPH29, though this blue looks nicer in the flesh. Unfortunately, these upgrades do come at a cost, as the SRPH commands an RRP far exceeding the previous two watches…or at least when they were still in production. With the older two increasing in cost with restricted supply, I’d just get the SRPH instead; it’s a much better watch overall.
SKA791 Kinetic
Another route to go down is the Seiko SKA791. This pilot-inspired watch is part of the unique Kinetic range, which uses an automatic-like rotor to help charge a lithium-ion battery inside. It’s effectively just a different type of hybrid quartz movement. In fact, it’s usually an identical cell to that used in Citizen’s Eco Drive solar range. The pusher? Well, that tells you how much power it’s got left. It’s a cool piece of engineering, and while not as impressive as a high-end mechanical piece, it is much more accurate and exclusive.
Visually, the rest of the SKA791 is also quite individual, with a bright green face, gold accents, and an unusually-proportioned fixed bezel. The case finishing overall is decent, and the strap is serviceable too, it’s just worth noting that the watch is pretty large, at 42.5mm, so this is really reserved for those willing to accommodate a larger timepiece.
My favorite part of the watch is the super silky section that encompasses the hour markers; you’ll notice that the area has an extra shiny green that combines pleasingly with the main central sunburst. It’s far from my favorite in terms of looks, but it’s undoubtedly a sleeper pick if it suits your wrist and taste.
SSB387
Did you know, Seiko also makes titanium watches? Titanium watches that don’t cost a fortune. Yes, after the discontinuation of the retro SNDC31, I was looking for an alternative Seiko chronograph worth recommending and found this: the SSB387. Usually available for under $400 at the time of writing, this little-known gem brings one of the deepest dials on the market, with two-tier subdials, a two-step chapter ring with protruding markers, and a carbon-fiber-like surface underneath. The color of this blue version is duller than on many of the oversaturated stock images, with more of a navy tone instead, though you can also purchase this watch in black.
Despite the rather large proportions, it weighs virtually nothing due to the titanium case and bracelet, making it so comfortable you’ll forget it’s even there. Inside is an 8T67 mecha-quartz movement, which provides more satisfying pushers and a quicker reset time than most regular quartz chronographs. It also enables somewhat of a sweep on the chronograph hand to boot. You can get these movements in far lower-cost watches, but not many options provide this alongside the materials and intricacy you’ll see here.
My main gripe is regarding the bracelet. It integrates with the case poorly, with end links that look far too small. Also, the clasp has a pitiful number of adjustment holes, considering the huge link size. Therefore, you’ll probably want to try a third-party strap with the SSB387. If you aren’t bothered by this, it at least incorporates Seiko’s newer link removal system, which is very quick and convenient.
If you don’t fancy that chronograph, some of the SUR series dress watches are also made in titanium, without a substantial price increase over the steel versions.
