ashleytee, Author at Ashley Tee

Artem Straps Review: Premium Sailcloth and NATO Straps Tested

Today I’m sharing my honest thoughts on five straps sent by Artem Straps—a premium Australian brand. In this Artem Straps review, I’ll cover what I love (and don’t) about their sailcloth and NATO offerings, from the famous Loop-Less to classic and nylon straps. Watch my full video review below, and let’s dive in!

Who Are Artem Straps?

Founded in Adelaide, Australia, Artem Straps crafts high-quality aftermarket watch straps that blend durability, comfort, and luxury. I first spotted them on Instagram, where watch enthusiasts raved about their premium sailcloth designs. With prices ranging from $60 to $200+, Artem targets the premium market, offering straps for most lug widths, including odd sizes like 19mm and 21mm. Their Loop-Less sailcloth strap is their star, but they also provide classic sailcloth and NATO options, as seen in the five straps they sent me:

Green Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap
Black Classic Sailcloth Strap (RM-Style Deployant Clasp)
Navy Blue Classic Sailcloth Strap (Pin & Buckle)
Two NATO Straps (Bond & Navy Blue)

Artem Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap: My Favorite

Priced at $133 (strap only) plus $68 for the Loop-Less Deployant Clasp and $13 for quick-release spring bars, the Loop-Less Sailcloth Strap totals $214. It’s not cheap, but you get premium quality. Here’s my take:

What I Love

Stunning Green Color & Versatility: The green hue pairs beautifully with my Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono’s off-white dial, offering a sporty, casual vibe compared to its mesh bracelet. It’s a fresh, unique look.
Comfortable & Easy Break-In: Softer and thinner than the classic straps, it breaks in quickly and feels great. The deployant clasp, similar to Omega’s, is well-built and simple to use—just press and close.

What I Don’t Love

The standard length is too loose for my 150mm wrist, making it unwearable for me. I wish Artem offered a shorter version for smaller wrists below 160mm. Also, the $13 extra for quick-release spring bars feels unnecessary—make it standard, Artem!

Price: $214 (with clasp and quick-release)

*too loose for my tiny wrist, unfortunately*

UPDATE: ARTEM HAD RELEASED LOOPLESS VERSION FOR THE SMALL WRISTS. VISIT ARTEM STRAPS HERE

Classic Sailcloth Straps: Black and Navy Blue

Next, I tested two Classic Sailcloth Straps in XS size, perfect for my 150mm wrist:

Black with Black Stitching (RM-Style Deployant Clasp): $169
Navy Blue with White Stitching (Pin & Buckle): $96

What I Love

Premium Stitching & Versatility: The white stitching on the navy strap is neat, with no loose threads, signaling quality. Both colors pair well with most watches, from divers to dress pieces.
XS Size for Small Wrists: Unlike the Loop-Less, these fit my wrist perfectly, with no excess tail, creating a clean look. The shorter tail prevents awkward overhang, though it took time to adjust to the “kid’s watch” feel.

Brushed finishing with Artem logo

What I Don’t Love

The RM-Style deployant clasp ($73 extra) is fun to use, with a satisfying spring mechanism, but it protrudes on my small wrist, forming an odd shape instead of wrapping snugly. It fits better on 160mm wrists. The pin-and-buckle version is fine, with brushed Artem-branded hardware, but nothing special.

Artem NATO Straps: Bond & Navy Blue

Finally, I tried two NATO Straps (Bond and Navy Blue), priced at $63 each—the most affordable Artem offering.

What I Love

Surprisingly Soft Material: Smoother and softer than typical OEM NATOs, these feel premium. The hardware is solid, and the stitching is clean, with no loose ends.
Value for Premium Watches: For a $1,000+ watch, a $63 NATO with a 2-year warranty feels proportionate, elevating the watch’s look compared to cheap OEM options.

What I Don’t Love

At $63, they’re pricier than standard OEM NATOs. While the quality justifies it, budget-conscious buyers might hesitate.

Why Choose Artem Straps?

Artem’s premium sailcloth and NATO straps stand out for their craftsmanship, with a 2-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. While pricey, they rival other OEM options offering versatility and durability for high-end watches. The Loop-Less strap is a unique, sporty choice, and the XS sizes cater to smaller wrists—a rare find.

Comparison Table:

Strap Type	Price (USD)	Lug Widths	Best For
Loop-Less Sailcloth	$214	20mm	Larger wrists
Classic Sailcloth (Black)	$169	19–23mm, XS size	Small wrists
Classic Sailcloth (Navy)	$96	19–23mm, XS size	Small wrists
NATO (Bond/Navy Blue)	$63	Various	Budget premium

Final Thoughts

Their premium quality left me impressed, though the price feels better suited for luxury watch owners.

The Loop-Less green strap stands out for its exceptional comfort and sleek style, but it’s a bit large for my smaller wrist—I’d love a more compact size. UPDATE: ARTEM HAD RELEASED LOOPLESS VERSION FOR THE SMALL WRISTS.

The Classic sailcloth straps are a perfect fit, offering a polished look, though the clasp could use slight adjustments for smaller wrists like mine.

The NATO straps surprised me with their softness and durability, a step above standard options.

While the craftsmanship is undeniable, the cost makes these straps a splurge best paired with high-end watches rather than affordable ones like my Seikos. If you’re rocking a luxury timepiece, Artem’s quality might be worth it!

Visit Artem Straps here:

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Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Review: A Classy Dress Watch

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The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80—an underrated dress watch that’s stealing my heart (mostly). In this Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles review, I’ll cover two things I absolutely love, one thing I don’t, and why this watch deserves more attention in 2025. Watch my full video review below, and let’s dive in!

What Makes the Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Special?

The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles is named after the street in Le Locle, Switzerland, where Tissot’s factory has stood since 1907. Le Locle is a watchmaking haven, home to brands like Mido and Zenith, and a world-renowned horology museum I’m dying to visit. This lineup embodies Tissot’s heritage, with the brand’s founding year, 1853, proudly displayed on the dial—a signature that’s practically a logo.

Le Locle Switzerland_Tissot Factory — *source: watchpapst.de*

For me, watches like this are timeless treasures. In a world of high-tech gadgets, the analog charm of a mechanical watch feels like the warm crackle of a vinyl record. The Chemin Des Tourelles delivers that classic, no-fuss elegance, powered by the modern Powermatic 80 movement with an 80-hour power reserve. That means it keeps ticking accurately for three days without being worn—a marvel for us watch enthusiasts!

Fun fact: Non-watch fans might scoff, “Three days? Why not get a quartz?” But for us, 80 hours of mechanical magic is pure joy—like choosing vinyl over Spotify.

Key Specs of the Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80

Available in 34mm, 39mm, and 42mm sizes, this lineup suits all wrists. I’m reviewing the 42mm version, kindly loaned by a friend (thanks!). Here’s the breakdown:

Tissot-Chemin-Des-Tourelles_Caseback — *Powermatic 80*

Case Size & Fit: The 42mm case, with a 48.9mm lug-to-lug and 11mm thickness, wears true to size. It’s too big for my 150mm wrist and even loose on my husband’s 160mm wrist, despite the tightest strap adjustment. For smaller wrists, the 39mm is ideal; the 42mm suits larger ones.
Lug Width: At 21mm, the odd size means you’ll need specific straps. The alligator-style strap looks classy but wears out quickly—my old Tissot strap barely lasted a few years. Third-party straps are a must.
Butterfly Clasp: The signed butterfly clasp extends strap life, a thoughtful touch.
Movement: The Powermatic 80 shines through a transparent caseback with gold accents—stunning to admire.
Crown & Case: A signed crown and vertically brushed case add sophistication.

Two Things I Love About This Tissot Dress Watch

1. Gorgeous Blue Sunburst Dial

The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles blue dial is a showstopper. Under the domed sapphire crystal, this rich, radiant shade glows in any light. The sunburst effect sparkles from the center, while the textured outer dial and Roman numerals at each quarter exude class. I’m picky about blue dials—Tissot PRX Ice Blue and IWC Portugieser Blue get my vote, but Seiko SNXS77? No thanks. This Tissot nails it.

The dial keeps it simple: pencil hour/minute hands, a ticking second hand (21,600 beats/hour), and a white date window at 6 o’clock. No lume, as expected for a dress watch. It’s a dial you’ll want to stare at all day.

2. Versatile Sizing for Every Wrist

Tissot-Chemin-Des-Tourelles Lineup — *Various sizes available in Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Lineup*

I love that the Chemin Des Tourelles offers multiple sizes. My husband and I once considered matching 34mm and 42mm versions as wedding watches—how romantic! We went with a Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono instead, but Tissot’s flexibility makes this a great pick for couples or anyone.

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles_Hamilton Intra-Matic — *Review on Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H here!*

Feature	Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles	Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono
Case Size	42mm	40mm
Lug-to-Lug	48.9mm	49mm
Case Thickness	11mm	14.3mm
Lug Width	21mm	20mm

One Thing I Don’t Love: Reflective Domed Crystal

Here’s my only gripe: the domed sapphire crystal is too reflective for watch photography. As a watch enthusiast, I love snapping outdoor shots, but this crystal shows my phone and face in every pic! Earlier this year in Kuala Lumpur, I struggled to shoot this watch with just natural light—reflections everywhere. I was a newbie photographer then, clueless about glare.

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles 42mm T099.407.16.048.00

When our friend loaned the watch again in Jakarta, I used a controlled light setup with a diffuser to get clean shots. The crystal’s not a dealbreaker—it adds visual depth and class—but it’s a challenge for photo buffs like me.

Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Price and Where to Buy

The Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80 retails for RM 3,450 (~$837 USD). Boutique stores rarely discount, so shop authorized dealers or Jomashop for better deals. Jomashop offers authentic watches with their own warranty, often at lower prices. Always check warranty details with dealers for peace of mind.

Compare the prices here:

JOMASHOP

AMAZON

Why This Watch Deserves More Hype

Overshadowed by the Tissot PRX, the Chemin Des Tourelles is a hidden gem. Its heritage, stunning dial, and modern movement make it one of the best dress watches under $1000 for collectors and newcomers. If you’re after a timeless, elegant timepiece, this Tissot delivers.

Final Thoughts on the Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles

That’s my Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles review! The blue dial and sizing options are winners, but the reflective crystal tests my photography skills. Have you tried this watch? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more watch reviews, check out my Seiko Monster Penguin review or browse my blog for the latest watch guides and stories.

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Casio W217H Review: Why This $20 Digital Watch Won Me Over

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From Skeptic to Fan: My Casio Journey

I used to roll my eyes at Casio watches. Their digital, resin designs screamed “childish” to me, and if I wanted a digital watch, I’d pick a smartwatch or fitness tracker. But let me tell you, the Casio W217H changed my mind. This affordable gem, gifted by a friend, has earned a spot in my collection. In this review, I’ll share why this $20 black resin digital watch is a fantastic choice and how it stacks up against the iconic Casio F91W.

What Makes the Casio W217H Stand Out?

The Casio W217H might not be as famous as the F91W, but it’s a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable, stylish digital watch. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Larger Size: With dimensions of 43.1 × 41.2 × 10.5 mm, the W217H feels more substantial on the wrist compared to the F91W’s 38.2 × 35.2 × 8.5 mm.
Better Backlight: The W217H’s backlight is brighter and clearer, making it easier to read in low-light conditions.
Improved Water Resistance: Rated at 50 meters (5 bar), it outperforms the F91W’s 30-meter (3 bar) rating, offering peace of mind for swimming or rainy days.

Feature

Case Size (L x W x H)

Water Resistance

Casio F91W

38.2 x 35.2 x 8.5 mm

30 meters / 3 bar

Casio W217H

43.1 x 41.2 x 10.5 mm

50 meters / 5 bar

Available in multiple color variants, I love the sleek black-on-black version I own. It’s a classic look that pairs well with any outfit. Plus, it comes with standard digital watch features like an alarm and stopwatch, keeping things simple yet functional.

Wearing the Casio W217H: My Experience

As someone who usually gravitates toward analog watches, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed wearing the W217H. Its standout feature? Legibility. Unlike my Hamilton Intra-Matic, which can be tough to read at a glance, the W217H’s digital display lets me check the time instantly, down to the second. It’s a game-changer for quick time checks.

At first, I wondered why I’d wear a digital watch that doesn’t double as a smartwatch. But the more I learned about Casio’s legacy, the more I appreciated the charm of a no-frills timepiece. It’s refreshing to wear a watch that doesn’t bombard me with notifications. The lightweight resin construction also makes it my go-to “beater” watch—perfect for typing on my laptop or casual activities without worrying about scratches.

This watch adds versatility to my collection. It pairs effortlessly with jeans and a t-shirt for a laid-back vibe or even dresses up slightly for semi-casual looks. While I usually prefer heavier watches for a bold wrist presence, the W217H’s featherlight feel is a nice change of pace.

Style and Versatility

The W217H’s minimalist design makes it incredibly versatile. Whether I’m rocking a casual outfit or something a bit dressier, this watch fits right in. Its durability is another plus—made of resin, it can handle daily wear and tear, making it ideal for active lifestyles or as an everyday accessory.

Value for Money

Priced at around $20, the Casio W217H is a steal. You get a durable, functional, and stylish digital watch that rivals more expensive options. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a reliable timepiece to their collection without breaking the bank.

Why Choose the Casio W217H Over the F91W?

While the F91W is a classic with historical significance, the W217H offers practical upgrades. Its larger size, better backlight, and enhanced water resistance make it a more modern choice for everyday wear. If you’re after a digital watch that balances affordability, functionality, and style, the W217H is hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

The Casio W217H has won me over with its simplicity, durability, and unbeatable value. It’s not just a watch—it’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast or just need a reliable timepiece, this Casio deserves a spot on your wrist.

Have you tried the Casio W217H? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! And if you enjoyed this review, check out my state of the collection video for more watch content.

Read more another value for money Tank-Like Casio watch here

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Tag Heuer: 15 Innovative Milestones

1. Patented Keyless Winding Mechanism for Pocket Watches

Founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, the brand quickly showcased its innovative spirit, securing patents for a keyless winding mechanism in 1869 and its first chronograph in 1882.

Pocket watch with a winding key — Classic pocket watch with winding key
Source: www.watchrepair.com

Edouard Heuer first patent, keyless winding mechanism for pocket watches — Patented Keyless Winding Mechanism for Pocket Watches in 1869
Source: www.tagheuer.com

2. Invention of the Oscillating Pinion Mechanism

In 1887, TAG Heuer patented the oscillating pinion mechanism, which allowed chronographs to start and stop instantly with the press of a button — a technology still used by many watchmakers today.

Heuer oscillating pinion — Source: www.tagheuer.com

3. Patented Water-Resistant Casing

Continuing its innovative streak, TAG Heuer filed a patent for a water-resistant casing in 1895, further advancing its technological edge.

Heuer water resistant case — 1895 – Heuer water-resistant case
source: www.timeandwatches.com

4. Time of Trip Dashboard Chronograph

In 1911, TAG Heuer introduced the Time of Trip dashboard chronograph, a tool specifically designed for the aviation and automotive industries. This patented chronograph featured central hour and minute hands, a smaller second counter, and a larger counter to measure trip duration up to 12 hours. Its user-friendly crown allowed easy time adjustment, and its button-controlled start/stop/reset functions added to its practicality.

5. Micrograph – The Most Precise Stopwatch of its Time

One of TAG Heuer’s most remarkable achievements came in 1916 with the introduction of the Micrograph, the most precise stopwatch of its era. This innovation set the stage for TAG Heuer’s dominance in precision timekeeping.

Heuer Micrograph — Tag Heuer Mikrograph 1916
source: www.hautehorlogerie.org

6. Crafting Chronographs for Pilots

In the 1930s, TAG Heuer expanded its focus, designing chronographs specifically for pilots — a move that solidified its place in aviation history.

7. Creation of the Autavia Dashboard Device

Maintaining its strong ties with the aviation and automobile industries, TAG Heuer introduced the Autavia dashboard chronograph in 1933, featuring an impressive eight-day power reserve.

The Dashboard Autavia — Source: www.tagheuer.com

8. The Auto-Graph Chronograph

In 1948, TAG Heuer released the Auto-Graph chronograph, adding to its repertoire of cutting-edge timekeeping devices.

9. The Solunar — The World’s First Tidal Indicator

In 1949, TAG Heuer unveiled the Solunar, the world’s first watch to feature a tidal indication, catering to the needs of sailors and ocean enthusiasts.

10. The Seafarer

In the 1950s, TAG Heuer introduced the Seafarer, designed with a tide level indicator and a regatta dial, perfect for maritime activities.

11. The First Watch in Space

Heuer’s achievements continued with John Glenn wearing a Heuer stopwatch during the first American space voyage in 1962.

John Glenn reclining in space suit wearing Heuer stopwatch — source: https://magazine.tagheuer.com

12. The Development of Chronomatic

1969 brought a groundbreaking advancement with the Chronomatic — the world’s first self-winding chronograph movement, developed in collaboration with Breitling, Buren, and Dubois-Depraz.

Calibre 11: Chronomatic — Source: https://www.tagheuer.com

13. The Monaco

The Chronomatic movement was incorporated into iconic models like the Carrera, Autavia, and Monaco, the latter famously associated with Steve McQueen.

Steve McQueen wearing Monaco — Source: https://www.tagheuer.com

14. The TAG Heuer S/el Collection

In 1985, Techniques d’Avant Garde (TAG) acquired a majority stake in the company, renaming it TAG Heuer. Under TAG’s ownership, the brand introduced the S/el collection in 1987, furthering its innovation.

15. The Microtimer

In 1996, TAG Heuer launched the Microtimer, a groundbreaking chronograph capable of measuring time with a precision of 1/1000th of a second.

Tag Heuer Microtimer — source: https://professionalwatches.com

Despite strong ties to Formula 1, celebrity collaborations, and luxury brand partnerships, TAG Heuer faces criticism from watch enthusiasts who feel the brand’s prestige has dimmed. Many argue that its focus on marketing and high-profile collaborations, like with Formula 1 and Porsche, overshadows the traditional watchmaking craftsmanship that once defined the brand.

Want to know more about another heritage watch brand? Read more here on Hamilton

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The New Seiko 5 Field Watches: SRPJ09 Review

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When my sister-in-law, a newcomer to mechanical watches, asked for an affordable yet reliable timepiece, I knew the Seiko 5 series was a perfect fit. Her needs were clear: a mechanical watch that wasn’t too bulky, overly feminine, or masculine.

Enter the Seiko 5 SRPJ09, a standout in the “Field Street Style” lineup. In this Seiko 5 SRPJ09 review, I’ll dive into its design, performance, and value at ~$250, drawing from my experience as a watch enthusiast and my journey with the iconic Seiko SNK803. Is this affordable field watch the best choice for beginners and collectors alike? Let’s find out.

Why Seiko 5 Watches Are a Top Choice

The Seiko 5 series carries a rich history that dates back to 1963 when the original Seiko Sportsmatic 5 was introduced. It brought forth five defining attributes that shape the collection today: automatic movements, a day/date window, water resistance, a recessed crown at 4 o’clock, and a robust case and bracelet. The series spans an array of styles – from dress watches to field watches to divers – appealing to various tastes and preferences. Seiko 5 watches, with their affordable price points, have remained a favorite among both newcomers and seasoned collectors.

Read my review on one of the most famous Seiko 5 – SNXS79 – the $100 Rolex OP Alternative here.

First Seiko 5 Watch from 1968 — Source: www.seikowatches.com

Why the Seiko 5 SRPJ09 Is a Top Affordable Field Watch

Allow me to introduce the Seiko 5 SRPJ09, a member of the “Field Street Style” category. While the nomenclature might raise an eyebrow, I’d classify it simply as a Field Watch, along with its counterparts like the SRPG27 and SRPH27. The differences lie in the dial designs, either the Type A or Type B configuration.

Seiko 5 SRPJ09 vs. SNK809: What’s Changed?

This modern update pays homage to Seiko’s legendary field watches, particularly the well-regarded Seiko SNK800 series. Many of us started our watch journey with the likes of the Seiko SNK809 – an iconic first-time watch. In my case, I opted for the beige variant, the Seiko SNK803. Read my review of that watch here.

Shift in Price and Perspective:

However, times have changed, and the Seiko 5 SRPJ09 comes at a price of around $250, a shift of nearly $100 from its predecessors. Wait, wasn’t it priced around $100-120 before? It’s evident that the older Seiko 5 models have risen in value, reminding us of the evolving landscape of watch collecting.

Reasons to Opt for the Newer Model:

Should you still consider the newer models despite the price hike? Absolutely. The advancements in movement and design warrant consideration. The Seiko 5 SRPJ09 isn’t just a watch; it’s a step towards embracing enhanced performance and aesthetics.

Technical Specs: Inside the Seiko 5 SRPJ09

Let’s delve into the technical specifications that define the Seiko 5 SRPJ09:
• Movement: Caliber 4R36, an automatic with manual winding capabilities
• Power Reserve: Approximately 41 hours
• Jewels: 24
• A practical day/date display
• Case Material: Robust stainless steel with a durable hard coating
• Case Size: Thickness of 13.1mm, diameter of 39.4mm, and lug-to-lug distance of 48.0mm
• Crystal: Curved Hardlex
• Clasp: Secured by a three-fold clasp
• Water Resistance: 10 bar
• Weight: 145.0g,
• A see-through screw case back

SRPJ09 VS SNK803
New Seiko 5 vs Old Seiko 5
Thickness Comparison — *SRPJ09 vs SNK803 (Thickness)*

Pros and Cons of the Seiko 5 SRPJ09

Pros:

Affordable field watch at ~$250, offering great value.
Upgraded 4R36 movement with hacking and hand-winding.
100m water resistance, ideal for versatile use.
Legible dial with Lumibrite for low-light readability.
Modern design with a nod to Seiko’s field watch heritage.

Cons:

Pricier than older SNK800 models (~$120) due to inflation.
39.4mm size may feel large on smaller wrists.
Hardlex crystal less scratch-resistant than sapphire.

Old vs New Seiko 5s

Here are the hard facts – The newer Seiko 5s Field watches offer improved movement and better water resistance.

The subjective aspects (or perhaps controversial) are the better-looking logo and the domed crystal. This crystal adds a nice distortion to the dial when viewed from different angles. When it comes to the newer Seiko 5 options, there are good ranges of sizes available for everyone (from the SRPJ83 / 81 at 36mm) – to the SRPJ09 / SRPG27 at 39mm.

Taking all these factors into account, I believe that the newer Seiko 5s Field watches offer a compelling value compared to the older models, justifying the $100 price difference.

I’ve also reviewed another Seiko 5 watch here: The Seiko 5 GMT SSK003

Where To Buy Seiko 5 SRPJ09

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Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK: Best Affordable GMT Watch 2025

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As a watch enthusiast, I couldn’t resist delving into this timepiece that has been making waves in the watch community. But wait, there’s more! This watch holds a special place in my heart as it has even sparked a shared interest in my family members, leading them to make purchases of their own. Join me as I uncover the design, functionality, and craftsmanship that make the Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK003 an affordable GMT watch.

This post & “Ashley Tee” YouTube channel contains affiliate links, meaning, I recommend products and/or services I’ve used or know well and may receive a commission if you purchase them too (at no additional cost to you).

WHAT IS A GMT WATCH?

Glycine Airman the first gmt watch — A vintage Glycine Airman watch – image by Analog / Shift
Source: https://monochrome-watches.com

The idea of GMT watches came up in the 1950s when pilots and travelers needed a reliable way to keep track of time in different places. And guess what? it wasn’t Rolex who created the first known GMT, it was Glycine in 1953. However, it can be agreed upon that it was the Rolex that popularized and changed the game of the GMT watches with their Rolex GMT Master, in 1954, when they created it for the Pan Am Airlines pilots.

Rolex GMT MASTER first gmt watch — Rolex GMT-Master Reference 6542 in 1954
Source: https://therake.com

So, how do these GMT watches work? It’s pretty simple, actually. You’ve got your regular hour and minute hands telling you the local time, and then there’s that extra hand or small dial showing the time back home or wherever you want to keep track of.

Why Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK is the Best Affordable GMT

The three fresh variations each display a distinct dial color – black, blue, and orange. To ensure clear visibility, the GMT hands are vibrant red for the black and blue dials and black for the orange version.

seiko 5 sports gmt ssk001 black version on table — *Seiko SSK001 – Black Ver.*

seiko 5 sports gmt ssk003 blue version on table — *Seiko SSK003 – Blue Ver.*

seiko 5 sports gmt ssk005 orange version on table — *Seiko SSK005 – Orange Ver.*

SPECIFICATIONS:

Movement: Automatic Caliber 4R34
Power reserve: Approx. 41 hours
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Thickness: 13.6mm
Case Diameter: 42.5mm
Lug-to-lug: 46.0mm
Crystal: Hardlex
Lume: LumiBrite
Distance between lugs: 22mm
Water Resistance: 10 Bar

DESIGN OF THE SEIKO SSK003 – BLUE VER.

seiko ssk vs seiko skx — *Seiko SSK003 VS SEIKO SKX013*

Inspired by one of Seiko’s highly admired divers – the beloved Seiko SKX series – you can definitely see a similar case design including the hour markers. However, instead of painted hour markers like the SKX, this one has applied hour markers, which is definitely an upgrade. Also, similar to the SKX, this comes with a jubilee bracelet, but this definitely is a way better quality compared to the jangly bracelet that SKX has. It also feels heavier and thus, making the wearing experience feels more premium.

The sunburst blue dial proudly showcases the iconic Seiko 5 logo, alongside the words “Automatic” and “GMT” in a striking red hue at the lower section. A cyclops bubble on the right side magnifies the date for easy reading. The red GMT hand is a real standout, adding an eye-catching touch to this GMT watch. The Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK003 truly captivates with its appearance! What’s intriguing is the bezel’s color – it’s a subtle blue that might go unnoticed in normal lighting conditions. Here’s a funny tidbit: my brother didn’t even realize it was partially blue at first – quite the surprise!

CONS:

1. Hardlex Crystal (Not A Sapphire Crystal)

I do not understand why would Seiko continue using their Hardlex crystal even at this price range. In my opinion, this is one of the least things that watch wearers could ask for, and sadly Seiko can’t even give us that.

2. Form Fitted Bezel (No Snappy Snappy)

The form-fitted bezel might bother some wearers as well. It is a bidirectional non-clicky bezel.

3. Not A True GMT

Seiko SSK Transparent Caseback — Source: https://12and60.com

There aren’t a lot of GMT options out there within this price range. What Seiko has done at this price range, is truly a market changer. Although it isn’t a True GMT, this office GMT is still a bang for the buck. To understand the differences between an office & a true GMT, I highly suggest watching this video by Mark from Long Island Watch who did an awesome job explaining the differences. I think you should at least know what’s the difference so that you can make a better-informed buying decision. Watch here

Pros:

1. Good-Looking Watch

Although with a quite a thick watch, it is still wearable even with my small wrist. And I might add, it’s actually pretty comfortable if I were to compare with my SKX013, probably due to the better quality of bracelet.

2. Seiko SKX Alternative

For those who love the SKX design, and yet did not jump into the chance of getting one due to the high price, this Seiko GMT SSK is easily more worth it. So consider getting this. My article here explains more

3. Probably the most useful complications out there (something that you might actually use.

4. Value for Money

CONCLUSION: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Read more on one of the most famous Seiko 5 here

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