ashleytee, Author at Ashley Tee

My Watch Collection 2024: Favorites, Stories, and Lessons Learned

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I’ve been passionate about watches for 4-5 years, and my collection has grown to 15 unique timepieces. In this post, I’ll share my favorite watches, their stories, and some lessons I’ve learned as a watch enthusiast. From dress watches to divers, field watches, chronographs, and digitals, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, join me on this journey through my 2024 watch collection!

Dress Watches: Elegance and Sentimentality

Dress watches dominate my collection, blending style and personal meaning. Here’s a look at my favorites:

Titus Interlude: A Cherished Gift

My Titus Interlude, a graduation gift from my parents, was one of my first watches. Founded in 1887, Titus was originally Swiss but is now a Hong Kong brand. While it’s perceived as high-quality in Southeast Asia, some enthusiasts now view it as a fashion watch post-acquisition. After 8 years, mine stopped working (not due to the battery) and the logo has peeled off after a few drops. I’m still diagnosing the issue, but its sentimental value keeps it in my collection.

Seiko SNXS79: A Fan Favorite with a Cracked Crystal

The Seiko SNXS79, is a fan favorite that kickstarted my YouTube channel. Featuring the 7S26 movement, this Seiko 5 was my go-to watch, even worn at my wedding. Unfortunately, I dropped it face-down, cracking the Hardlex crystal. See how I got it fixed here

Tissot T-Classic Couturier Lady: Retirement Gift

A gift from my mom, this watch was a retirement gift from her company, inscribed with “Jasamu Dikenang” (Your contribution is appreciated in Bahasa Melayu) on its caseback. At that time, this watch adds a feminine touch to my collection which consists mostly 37mm and above. Working in a corporate setting, I find myself wearing this pretty often.

Tissot Classic Dream Lady: Feminine Elegance

Another gift from my mom, this time with an inscription of “LONG SERVICE AWARDS” on its caseback. A memento from my mom’s 25+ years of working in the same company reminds me of a traditional value of hard work and persistence. Measuring 28mm, it’s my smallest watch, perfect for evening gowns. The Roman numeral indices add a delicate touch.

Casio LTP-V007: The Affordable Cartier Tank Alternative

At just $20, the Casio LTP-V007 (aka Casio Tank) is the cheapest watch in my collection. Despite its petite size, it’s a fantastic budget alternative to the Cartier Tank. Its affordability and quality make it a great choice for those on a tight budget seeking elegance. See my review here

Vario Versa: A Reversible Gem

Sent by Vario, a Singapore-based company, this watch is a unique alternative to the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Its reversible design feels like owning two watches in one. As a YouTuber, receiving this for review was a pleasant surprise, and its distinct style adds variety to my collection.

Tissot PRX Powermatic 35mm: My Current Favorite

The Tissot PRX Powermatic (35mm, mother-of-pearl dial) is my most frequently worn watch (so far!). A thoughtful gift from my husband, its dynamic dial outshines the ice blue version. While the other colors’ version felt underwhelming in person, this one’s dynamic, vibrant dial makes it a standout. Full review on this here

Dive Watches: Durability and Nostalgia

Dive watches are built for adventure, and mine carry deep personal meaning (especially this one:).

Seiko SKX013: A Sentimental Classic

The Seiko SKX013, a 38mm dive watch, was my first “proper” watch, purchased during a challenging career transition. Being an ISO certified and divers watch that can take a beating, it reminds me to be strong during one of my most challenging periods of my life. Its compact size suits my wrist better than the SKX007/009, and its rarity adds to its value. Despite seldom wearing it now, its sentimental significance ensures it stays in my collection.

Timex M79: An Impulsive Purchase

The Timex M79, with its diver’s bezel, was an impulsive buy during a discount. While I liked it initially, its 50m water resistance and high original price make it less appealing now. It’s one watch I could part with easily which is surprising because I am usually very attached to my watches. So I guess this says a lot.

Field Watches: Learning from Impulse Buys

As a beginner watch enthusiast, I was eager to complete my collection by checking off categories like dress and dive watches. Field watches, known for their rugged practicality, were next on my list. However, as my taste has evolved, my enthusiasm for field watches has shifted.

Seiko SNK803: A Beige Version of the Popular SNK809

The Seiko SNK803, a beige field watch, was bought early in my watch hobby to check off the field watch category after dress and dive watches. I was excited at first, but it no longer excites me. It’s not buyer’s remorse, just a sign my taste has changed—a lesson for new collectors to avoid rushing purchases.

Namoki ‘Midnight Sakura Tide’: A DIY Triumph

This unique watch, the Namoki Midnight Sakura Tide (which I named myself) was sent by Namoki as a DIY watchmaking kit. I assembled it myself, choosing extra parts to make it one-of-a-kind, and named it for its distinct design. The process was challenging, especially the second hand, but so rewarding. Check out my video for the full story! I wear it occasionally and love its uniqueness.

Chronographs: A Timeless Obsession

If I had unlimited funds and bigger wrist size, I’d focus on dress watches and chronographs—my two favorite styles.

Seiko Chronograph: A Fixer-Upper

This Seiko chronograph was my husband’s, sent to me to polish out scratches. I’ve used a polishing cloth, but it needs polywatch for better results. I rarely wear it since it’s not fully mine, but it’s a nice piece.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H: A Wedding Splurge

The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H, a mechanical watch, is my husband’s wedding watch. I insisted he not wear his Garmin for our wedding, so we hunted for couple’s watches and fell in love with this one despite its price. It’s one of our best purchases, even if it looks big on my wrist.

Digital Watches: Lightweight and Fun

Digital watches offer a refreshing change from analog designs.

Casio W-217H: A Thoughtful Gift

The Casio W-217H, a gift from a friend, was my first Casio. Its lightweight black resin strap is perfect for casual days, and I often forget I’m wearing it. As a gift, it holds a special place in my collection.

Casio G-Shock “Casioak” (Female Version)

I never thought I’d own a G-Shock, but the Casioak GMA S2100 (a smaller GA-2100 series) in white won me over. Its metallic indices and pastel appeal target the female market, and I prefer it over the black version, which feels too smartwatch-like. I’m still in the honeymoon phase with this one!

Lessons Learned as a Watch Enthusiast

Reflecting on my collection, I’ve learned valuable lessons:

Tastes Evolve: Early in my watch journey, I rushed to “check off” categories, leading to some purchases I no longer love.
Sentimental Value Matters: Watches like the Titus Interlude and Seiko SKX013 hold a special place due to their stories.
Budget-Friendly Options Shine: Affordable watches like the Casio LTP-V007 prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for quality.

Have a favorite watch or a collection of your own? Share in the comments below!

My Watch Collection 2024: Favorites, Stories, and Lessons Learned Read More »

Tissot PRX 35mm: Is It Worth Buying?

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The Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic Mother of Pearl (MOP) is a standout in the world of affordable Swiss watches. Known for its sleek design and integrated bracelet, this watch has garnered significant attention. In this review, we will explore the watch’s design, features, pros, cons, and whether it’s worth your investment. If you’re considering a stylish yet accessible Swiss timepiece, read on to see if the Tissot PRX 35mm MOP is the right choice for you.

Design and Aesthetics: A Visual Delight

The Tissot PRX 35mm MOP captivates with its unique mother-of-pearl dial. Unlike the popular ice blue variant, which shines in photos but can feel flat in person, the MOP dial offers dynamic visual appeal. The dial’s waffle texture and subtle color variations—greenish, bluish, and pinkish hues—create a mesmerizing effect that shifts with light. This makes the watch feel lively and engaging, perfect for those who prioritize a beautiful dial.

Tissot PRX 35mm Variants — *Many color variants – but most of it, felt a bit flat-ish.*

Tissot PRX Gold — *Interesting, but I think it’s too over-the-top for my taste.*

Tissot PRX Ice Blue 35mm — *I almost bought this Ice Blue one, but I was disappointed up close.*

The watch features a brushed bracelet and case, complemented by a polished bezel and signed crown. While the PRX’s boxy design may not wow everyone in person, the MOP version elevates the aesthetic, making it a standout choice for watch enthusiasts.

Key Features of the Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic

Dial: Mother of Pearl with waffle texture, offering dynamic color shifts.
Movement: Powermatic 80, an automatic movement known for its reliability.
Bracelet: Integrated design with a brushed finish, adding to the sleek look.
Case Size: 35mm, ideal for a variety of wrist sizes.
Price: Highly competitive for a Swiss-made watch with an integrated bracelet.

Pros: Why the Tissot PRX 35mm Shines

Unbeatable Value for a Swiss Watch

The Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic MOP is a standout in its price range. Few Swiss watches with integrated bracelets can compete at this price point. The nearest alternative, like the Christopher Ward The Twelve, costs significantly more (around $1,000). For those seeking a mainstream Swiss brand, the PRX delivers exceptional value.

Tissot PRX Mother of Pearl 35mm — *Probably one of the most affordable watches with integrated bracelets out there*

Caseback of Tissot PRX 35mm - Powermatic 80 movement — *Caseback of Tissot PRX 35mm – Powermatic 80 movement*

Stunning Mother of Pearl Dial

The MOP dial is the star of the show, offering a unique and eye-catching appearance. Its subtle color shifts and textured design make it a joy to wear and admire.

Wearability and Versatility

At 35mm, the PRX is versatile, fitting comfortably on various wrist sizes. Its sleek design makes it suitable for both casual and formal occasions, making it an easy recommendation for first-time watch buyers.

Tissot PRX Mother of Pearl_Wristshot — *Wore it during our babymoon trip! Wrist size: 150mm*

Cons: Points to Consider Before Buying

Integrated Bracelet Fit

The integrated bracelet lacks micro-adjustments, which can make finding the perfect fit challenging. This means it’s harder to share this watch with another person who has a wrist size difference.

Tissot PRX 35mm Bracelet — *The integrated bracelet lacks micro-adjustments, which can make finding the perfect fit challenging.*

Plastic Parts in the Movement (maybe!)

The Powermatic 80 movement (according to rumors) includes plastic components, which raises concerns for many watch enthusiasts who view plastic as inherently cheap and less durable.

There’s a rumor in watch forums that Tissot often replaces these plastic parts during servicing rather than repairing and reusing them, though I can’t confirm this. Some critics argue that this practice, if true, could affect the watch’s longevity and value.

Personally, I don’t mind the use of plastic, as Tissot’s reliable servicing and the movement’s solid performance outweigh these concerns for me.

Should You Buy the Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic Mother of Pearl?

The Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic Mother of Pearl is a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable, stylish Swiss watch. Its stunning MOP dial, competitive price, and versatile design make it a favorite among watch enthusiasts. While the lack of micro-adjustments and plastic parts in the movement may raise concerns, these are minor compared to the watch’s overall appeal.

If you’re looking for a timepiece that combines Swiss craftsmanship with a unique aesthetic, the PRX 35mm MOP is a fantastic option. As a PRX owner, it’s an easy watch to recommend and a joy to wear.

Where to Buy

Interested in the Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic Mother of Pearl? Check out trusted retailers like Amazon or Jomashop for the best deals.

CHECK OUT IN AMAZON FOR DISCOUNTED PRX PRICE

BUY FROM JOMASHOP FOR EXTRA DISCOUNT

Conclusion

The Tissot PRX 35mm Powermatic Mother of Pearl is more than just a watch—it’s a statement of style and value. With its captivating dial and Swiss-made quality, it’s a worthy addition to any collection. Have you considered the PRX for your next watch? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out another review on one of the most underrated Tissot watches ever.

Tissot PRX 35mm: Is It Worth Buying? Read More »

Vario Versa: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to JLC Reverso

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Discover the Vario Versa, an affordable reversible watch from a Singapore microbrand that offers dual time zones and a unique design for watch enthusiasts on a budget.

Why the Vario Versa Stands Out for Watch Enthusiasts

As a watch enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by luxury timepieces like the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, but their price tags often feel out of reach.

For those of us with budget constraints, finding an affordable alternative that captures the essence of a high-end watch is a thrill.

Enter the Vario Versa, a $400 reversible watch from Singapore-based microbrand Vario that quenched my thirst for a Reverso-inspired timepiece. In this review, I’ll dive into why this watch is a compelling option for watch lovers seeking style, functionality, and value.

Unboxing the Vario Versa: Practical and Thoughtful Packaging

The watch arrives with a practical donut case, an extra strap, and a vibrant green batik pouch—perfect for travel. Unlike bulky watch boxes, this packaging is functional and aligns with the brand’s no-nonsense approach.

Vario Versa Packaging

My first impression? The 39mm case length and 26mm width make it a perfect fit for my 150mm wrist, though its 12mm thickness (plus a protruding case) gives it a bolder presence.

The protruding case gives it a bolder presence with its 12mm thickness.

The Reversible Magic: How the Vario Versa Works

The standout feature of the Vario Versa is its reversible design, housing two ultra-slim Ronda SlimTec 1062 quartz movements. These movements, with a six-year battery life, allow for dual time zone functionality—a practical feature for travelers or those who love versatility. The inner case is secured with a central screw and four pins, ensuring a smooth flip between the two dials.

Check out the action here in my video:

This reversible watch houses two ultra-slim Ronda SlimTec 1062 quartz movements thus, thus allowing for dual time zone functionality.

The two-tone sector dial is a classy highlight, exuding sophistication reminiscent of luxury watches. However, the plain green dial feels underwhelmed by comparison. A textured or patterned green dial could elevate this side’s appeal. Unlike the Reverso or Cartier Tank, the Vario Versa lacks a fixed back, so flipping requires a quick wipe to clear smudges—a minor quirk that doesn’t detract from its charm.

Vario Varsa — *The plain green dial offers a simpler, yet understated contrast.*

Comfort and Style: The Vario Versa Strap Experience

Vario’s founders, Ivan and Judy, started as strap makers, and their expertise shines in the Versa’s green leather strap. Soft and comfortable from day one, it pairs beautifully with the deployant clasp, making it ideal for smaller wrists like mine. The strap’s quality rivals that of higher-end brands, adding significant value to this affordable watch.

Vario Versa styled with its included extra strap for added versatility.

Is the Vario Versa a True Alternative to Luxury Watches?

While the Vario Versa doesn’t have the heritage or mechanical intricacy of a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, it captures the reversible watch’s spirit at a fraction of the cost. Its unique case design stands out, avoiding being a mere copy of its luxury counterparts. The dual movements, comfortable strap, and thoughtful sizing make it a practical and stylish choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

Vario Versa Wristshot — **US$ 428** Vario’s Versa

JLC Reverso Wristshot — **US$ 13,300** JLC’s Reverso Classic Duoface Small Seconds

The Microbrand Advantage: Human Connection with Vario

One unexpected perk of exploring microbrands like Vario is the personal connection. Unlike mainstream brands, Vario’s founders are accessible, fostering a sense of community. This human touch, combined with limited production runs, makes the Versa feel like a unique piece on your wrist.

My experience with Vario’s founder, Ivan, was refreshingly genuine—he encouraged an honest review, which I appreciated.

Should You Buy the Vario Versa?

If you’re a watch enthusiast dreaming of a reversible timepiece like the Reverso or Cartier Tank but constrained by budget, the Vario Versa is a fantastic alternative. Available in various colors, with additional models from Vario’s lineup, it offers versatility and value. While the green dial could use more flair, the watch’s overall design, comfort, and dual time zone functionality make it a worthy contender.

Interested in this? Check out Vario’s website for more details and color options.

Final Thoughts on the Vario Versa

The Vario Versa has shifted my perspective on microbrands, proving that affordable watches can deliver style, innovation, and connection. It’s not a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, but it doesn’t need to be. For $400, it’s a unique, functional, and charming timepiece that satisfies my watch obsession— at least for now. What do you think of the Vario Versa? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Interested in another budget alternative to Cartier Tank? Check out Casio LTP V007 review here.

Vario Versa: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to JLC Reverso Read More »

Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 Mini CasiOak Review

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Today I’m diving into the Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100, affectionately dubbed the Mini CasiOak. Is it perfect for smaller wrists? Does it suit men and women? Is it worth your money? In this review, I’ll explore its design, features, wearing experience, and weigh the pros and cons to help you decide. Let’s get started!

G-Shock Legacy & Mini CasiOak Overview

Since 1983, G-Shock has redefined durability with watches like Kikuo Ibe’s DW-5000C, built to survive a 10-meter drop. Known for ruggedness and affordability, G-Shocks suit everyone—military personnel, celebrities, firefighters, athletes, and everyday folks.

*First ever G-Shock: Casio DW5000c*
*Source: Casio UK*

Introduced in 2019, the GA-2100 series became a bestseller with its octagonal bezel and bold hour markers, earning the nickname CasiOak for its resemblance to the luxury Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

3 CasiOak GA-2100 — *Released in 2019, the GA-2100 series became Casio’s BESTSELLER*

The GMA-S2100, a compact version, caters to smaller wrists, making it a hit for women seeking a tough, non-Baby-G option. Its unisex design—available in white, black, and steel variants—also appeals to men.

GMA-S2100 a.k.a Mini CasiOak — *GMA-S2100 = compact version of the more famous GA-2100*

Key Takeaways:

G-Shock: Durable, affordable, and iconic since 1983
Mini CasiOak: Compact, unisex, perfect for smaller wrists

Design & Specs of the GMA-S2100

The unboxing of the GMA-S2100 is thrilling! Housed in a classic G-Shock tin, my white model felt lightweight at 41 grams, thanks to the Carbon Core Guard Structure. With a 46.2mm lug-to-lug, 42.9mm case, and 11.2mm thickness, it fits my 150mm wrist perfectly—finally, a G-Shock that’s snug and comfy!

Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 Wristshot — *Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 on my 150mm wrist*

The ana-digi display blends analog hands (hours, minutes) with a digital screen (seconds, date, etc.), ideal for traditional watch lovers dipping into G-Shock. The octagonal bezel, a nod to the Royal Oak, steals the show. Metallic hour indices add a striking 3D effect, elevating it from the GA-2100’s subtler design.

Closed up shot of GMA-S2100 — *I love the ana-digi display which blends analog hands (hours, minutes) with a digital screen (seconds, date, etc.)*

Available in black, salmon, pink, and white, I chose white for a fresh, unisex vibe—my husband could borrow it too! Resin models are affordable and durable, while partly steel options like the GMS2100B-8A suit men’s wrists.

Specs at a Glance:

Weight: 41 grams
Dimensions: 46.2mm lug-to-lug, 42.9mm case, 11.2mm thick
Display: Analog-digital hybrid
Materials: Resin strap and case, some steel variants

Key Features & How to Set the Mini CasiOak

Let’s unpack the features and setup:

Mode Button: Press to cycle through local time, world time, stopwatch, timer, and alarm.
Adjust Button: Press to view city time; hold 2 seconds to enter setting mode.
World Time: Covers 48 cities across 31 zones—scroll with upper/lower right buttons.
Setting Mode: Tweak time, date, year, or toggle Daylight Saving Time (DST) and Hand Shift (HND).
Hand Shift: Press mode and light buttons together; hands move to clear the digital screen.
Bottom Right Button: Toggles date and time on the display.
Light Button: Activates Double LED for analog and digital visibility (1 or 3 seconds).

Additional perks include 200-meter water resistance, a 3-year battery, stopwatch, and alarms. The lume glows briefly but fades fast, so the LED is a lifesaver. The digital screen’s small size may require squinting—YouTube tutorials help master the buttons!

Here is my video for ease of learning:

Feature Highlights:

200m water resistance
3-year battery life
Double LED illumination

Wearing GMA-S2100 — *Sported the watch during my Bali trip. Yes I’m eating one of my favourite instant noodles 🙂*

Wearing Experience: Style Meets Practicality

As a new mom, I’ve grown to love the Mini CasiOak. Its ana-digi display blends my analog preference with quartz convenience—no winding or frequent adjustments needed. At 41 grams, it’s my daily go-to, surviving baby handling and scratches flawlessly—a true beater watch.

The octagonal bezel adds bold style, while the fit outshines chunkier G-Shocks like the DW5600. Its affordability tempts me to collect more variants, revealing why G-Shock fans are so passionate!

Why I Love It:

Lightweight and comfy for small wrists
Durable for busy, rugged days
Stylish and practical

Pros, Cons, and Value

Pros

Affordable: Around $100, some variants as low as $80
Stylish Design: Octagonal bezel and ana-digi display
Unisex: Suits men and women, especially smaller wrists
Variety: Resin, partly steel, and full steel options

Cons

Setup: Buttons tricky at first—watch tutorials : https://youtu.be/DQJyjvTuqok

Value Verdict

For under $100, the Mini CasiOak delivers durability, style, and features. It’s a fantastic addition to any collection, perfect for casual wear over suits. A steal for watch lovers!

Final Thoughts on the Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100

The Mini CasiOak is a unisex standout—tough, stylish, and budget-friendly. It’s ideal for smaller wrists and a fun, practical pick for daily wear.

Grab it via my affiliate links below. Prices start around $80 (at the time of writing this) —check for discounts.

CHECK IT OUT ON AMAZON

GET IT FROM AMAZON

Read another Casio watch review here and explore my watch-inspired merch at ashleytee.com/store.

What’s your favorite everyday watch? Would you rock this one? Comment below!

Casio G-Shock GMA-S2100 Mini CasiOak Review Read More »

Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75 Watch Review: A Dive into Style and Substance

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Introduction to the Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75

Today, we’re diving into another Seiko gem (no pun intended). We’re exploring the Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75, a standout in Seiko’s iconic dive watch lineup. Known for its bold, aggressive design and marine conservation ties, this “big boy” is a special edition under the Save the Ocean initiative. In this review, we’ll cover the Monster’s heritage, design, wearability, and whether it’s worth its $525 price tag. Let’s jump in!

The Heritage of Seiko Monster Watches

The Seiko Monster earned its name from its fierce, monster-like aesthetic, featuring sharp, teeth-like hour markers and a bezel that looks like it’s been bitten into. Seiko’s dive watches often have playful nicknames—like the Turtle for its shell-shaped case or the Tuna for its shrouded design—and the Monster is no exception.

Here’s a quick rundown of the Monster’s evolution:

First Generation (SKX779/SKX781): Powered by the 7S26 caliber.
Second Generation (SRP307/309/311/313): Introduced the 4R36 movement with a day-date window.
Third Generation (SBDC025/023/067): Featured the 6R15 movement and a price hike to around $525.
Fourth Generation (SRPH75): Returns to the 4R36 movement with a cyclops bubble over the day-date window, a polarizing design choice for fans.

This latest Monster combines rugged charm with a meaningful cause, making it a favorite for dive watch enthusiasts.

Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75: Design and Specifications

The SRPH75 is part of Seiko’s Save the Ocean lineup, supporting marine conservation through partnerships like PADI’s Marine Debris Program. Its penguin-themed dial is a visual stunner, with a deep blue gradient that mimics the ocean’s depths and cute penguins swimming across it. Here are the key specs:

Case Size: 42.4 mm diameter, 13.2 mm thick, 47.9–48 mm lug-to-lug.
Bezel: 120-click unidirectional stainless steel bezel, 4.6 mm thick, with a satisfying clicky feel.
Lug Width: 20 mm, with drilled lugs for easy strap changes.
Crown: Unsigned screw-down crown at 4 o’clock for symmetry.
Case Back: Closed screw-down with the Prospex logo, “Special Edition,” and Seiko’s iconic wave engraving.
Crystal: Hardlex, more scratch-resistant than mineral but below sapphire.
Movement: 4R36 automatic with a 41-hour power reserve.
Dial: Gradient blue with penguin motifs and thick Lumibrite-coated hour markers and hands for exceptional glow.
Bracelet: Mixed polished and brushed stainless steel, sturdy and solid.

The serrated case sides and grooved bezel enhance grip, while the bracelet feels substantial, complementing the watch’s bold vibe. The star of the show? That gorgeous sunburst dial—perfect for ocean lovers and anyone who adores unique textures.

Wearability of the Seiko Monster SRPH75

At 42.4 mm, the SRPH75 is no shrinking violet. Its 13.2 mm thickness and weight make it feel top-heavy, especially on smaller wrists like my 150 mm one. The short, downward-angling lugs help, but this watch shines on wrists over 170 mm. A friend with a 180 mm wrist found it a perfect fit, while anything smaller than 41 mm felt too dainty for him.

The fourth-generation Monster is often called the most wearable yet, thanks to its conservative lug-to-lug measurement. Still, if your wrist is on the smaller side, take my feedback with a pinch of salt—this one’s bold and chunky!

Is the Seiko Monster SRPH75 Worth the Price?

Retailing at $525, the SRPH75 can be found for around $400 at retailers like JomaShop or 2004 MYR on Lazada for Malaysian buyers. Price is subjective, but let’s break it down:

Why It’s Worth It

Unique Design: The penguin dial and Save the Ocean tie-in make it a standout.
Bold Aesthetic: Perfect for fans of aggressive, monster-like charm.
Lumibrite Glow: One of the best lume applications out there.
Marine Conservation: Supports a meaningful cause.
Versatile Appeal: Ideal for dive watch collectors and ocean enthusiasts.

Alternatives Under $500

Seiko SRPDS: A more conservative dive watch for ~$200.
Seiko Komasu (Orange): Budget-friendly at under $200.
Tissot Seastar: Swiss-made, 300m water resistance, under $500.
Microbrands: Many offer sapphire crystals and great specs at this price.

While there are plenty of options, the SRPH75’s unique dial, robust build, and Save the Ocean connection make it a compelling choice for Monster fans.

Where to Buy the Seiko Monster SRPH75

Interested in the SRPH75 or other dive watches? Check out my top 20 picks on JomaShop with affiliate links and promo codes for discounts. For Malaysian buyers, Lazada and Shopee links are also available. Support the channel by using these links—it helps keep the reviews coming!

BUY HERE FROM AMAZON

GET IT HERE FROM JOMASHOP

Final Thoughts on the Seiko Monster SRPH75

The Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75 is a bold, charismatic dive watch with a heart for the oceans. Its penguin-themed dial, rugged design, and stellar lume make it a must-have for Seiko fans, dive watch collectors, and anyone who loves a watch with personality. While its size and $525 price tag may not suit everyone, it’s a fantastic pick for those with larger wrists and a passion for unique, meaningful timepieces.

Seiko Prospex Monster SRPH75 Watch Review: A Dive into Style and Substance Read More »

Seiko SNXS79 Crystal Repair: My DIY Journey

Why This Watch Matters

This isn’t just any watch. It’s my first dress watch and holds sentimental value from my wedding day. When the crystal cracked, I felt lost—until your amazing suggestions poured in. Shoutout to Escapement & Watch Video, I gained the confidence to tackle this repair myself.

The Repair Challenge

Fixing this wasn’t straightforward. Unlike typical crystal replacements, the SNXS79 has a crystal sitting atop a gasket, secured by a bezel. That means prying it open carefully—not popping it from inside after removing the movement (like a typical watch). Plus, I couldn’t use a generic crystal; I needed one designed for this Seiko model, which meant higher costs due to currency differences and shipping (I’ll share the amount I paid in the video). I ordered two crystals to avoid disaster and gathered my tools. I got my sapphire crystals from monsterwatches.

Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a quick rundown of how I did it—watch the video for the full play-by-play!

Remove the Bracelet: Start by taking off the spring bars—easy enough with the spring remover tool like this one here:

removing bracelet from seiko snxs79 — *easier to fix the watch with the bracelets removed*

2. Pry the Bezel: Use a yellow tool (after testing a few) to gently open the bezel. I highly advise taping it to avoid scratches (especially if you’re a beginner). This yellow tool works the best for me.

3. Remove the Old Crystal: The bezel popped off, revealing the damaged crystal. Carefully remove the crystal and put aside.

4. Clean the dial: With those cracked pieces of the old Hardlex that came off, some might still sit on the gorgeous dial. Use a peg wood with a Rodico on it to pick up any of those crystals on the dial.

Rodico is a sticky, plasticine-like material used primarily in watchmaking for cleaning, holding, and placing small parts.
Add a squeeze of compressed air for extra caution.

cleaning seiko snxs79 dial with rodico — *cleaning seiko snxs79 dial with Rodico*

5. Install the New Crystal: Initially picked a flat crystal with anti-reflective coating, but last-minute curiosity led me to try a double-dome. I loved it! It somehow made this $100 watch even more expensive.

Note: Remember to install the gasket first before putting the new crystal & bezel on.

6. Secure with Case Presser: Used a cheap case presser (surprisingly effective!) to lock it in place. A satisfying “click” confirmed it was done.

Seiko SNXS79 Domed Sapphire Crystal — *Seiko SNXS79 with double-domed sapphire crystal*

The Result

I can’t believe it—I fixed it! The double-dome crystal adds an expensive vibe, and the movement still works perfectly. This win boosted my confidence for future repairs. The video turned out shorter than expected because I didn’t expect it to be this easy.

As you expected, this has been one of my favorite watches, find out why here

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