This was posted 2 years 7 months 14 days ago, and might be an out-dated deal.

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Seiko Prospex SPB079J Automatic 200m Divers Watch $599 delivered (+ $2.95 Express) @ Watch Depot

530
Seiko Prospex SPB079J Automatic 200m Divers Watch $599 delivered (+ $2.95 Express) @ Watch Depot
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Emeister on 08/05/2022 - 08:48 watchdepot.com.au (4188 clicks)
Last edited 08/05/2022 - 08:49

Those that know and enjoy their Seiko dive watches will understand the heritage behind this one and want to do a bit of research. Even then I know it's only going to be right for a small niche of Seiko fans.
If cashback discounts show up for this post then I think it is only because Watch Depot is a subsidiary of Sheils. I don't think any cashback is actually achievable.
As usual, stock Seiko photography does nothing for this watch. Check tag SPB079J1 on instagram for better, real life pictures. The bezel on this one is amazing.
I think this model is about four years old now and was one of the original "1968 recreations". The hands on this model have always been contentious but aren't terrible in reality and could always be modded.
Check out SBDC167 / SPB299J1 for what next months model will look like but remember you'll pay at least $1,000 more for that one for the foreseeable future.

The all black SPB077J on bracelet is also available for $799:
https://www.watchdepot.com.au/seiko-prospex-spb077j-automati…

You should still be able to get a $20 discount code by signing up to their VIP newsletter.

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closed Comments

  • Save Medicare on 08/05/2022 - 08:58
    +10

    Yikes this is a great deal. But I've kind of promised myself to stop buying so many cheaper watches and to save up for a real luxury watch

    • awaiko on 08/05/2022 - 09:07

      For someone who isn’t down this particular rabbit hole, what’s a ‘real luxury watch’? I would have thought that $600 was getting into the range of luxury.

      • BugsBunnyAUS on 08/05/2022 - 09:24
        +10

        How long is a piece of string?

        • PorkHunt on 08/05/2022 - 11:46

          I'm guessing from the poster's comment - about 600 cm.

      • sublemon on 08/05/2022 - 09:24
        +6

        Add a 0 to that then ranges to another two extra 0's

        • Domicron on 08/05/2022 - 13:09
          +2

          Starting with an extra 0 to ∞.

          $600 will probably buy half of the strap.

          Panerai deployment clasp was AUD$500 10 odd years ago from their store in Hong Kong…

      • Emeister on 08/05/2022 - 09:42
        +2

        Omega Seamaster 300 has been in production for 60 years and continuously refined
        AU$9,000 and up
        https://www.omegawatches.com/en-au/watches/seamaster/heritag…

        Even if you wanted a Rolex Submariner you can't just walk into a dealership / boutique and buy one. Waiting lists are years long and average punters get continuously leapfrogged by established customers. Guess where this takes second hand prices.

        Wallace Bishop will even sell you Seiko Prospex (Professional Specifications) dive watches up in that stratosphere.
        https://www.wallacebishop.com.au/search?type=product&options…

        • Save Medicare on 08/05/2022 - 09:49
          +3

          I've been thinking hard about getting a sapphire sandwich moonwatch actually. Sad I missed the boat on the cheap 1861s… but the moonswatch hype has actually worked on me.

          • Emeister on 08/05/2022 - 09:57

            @Save Medicare: I was lucky to get a pre-moon ten years ago when vintage watches were cheaper than the new releases.
            So far out of my league now.

          • Peace Maker on 08/05/2022 - 11:03
            +2

            @Save Medicare: Maybe try a Vostok Amphibia, comrade

          • nickyd84 on 08/05/2022 - 21:29
            +1

            @Save Medicare: I picked up a hesalite 1861 at the end of my honeymoon in 2019, a lovely watch.

            Wish I could get my hands on a couple of MoonSwatch!

        • garage sale on 08/05/2022 - 10:20

          tudor is regarded as luxury watch and cheaper than seamaster or submariner …..

          • ThadtheChad on 08/05/2022 - 19:43

            @garage sale: Tudor is part of the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, as is Rolex.

            Definitely make some amazing watches.

      • Joshman5k on 08/05/2022 - 10:45

        My 2 cents:
        I agree a watch that is $600 (Normally $1200) is luxury, lets be honest, it's not like you wouldn't know the time without it, and a $30 casio would be able to do the job just as well.

        Something like a Tudor (Rolex's value brand) is a good entry into Swiss luxury.

        • Ezuku on 08/05/2022 - 11:55
          +4

          Fwiw the casio will actually tell the time more accurately.

          • cwongtech on 08/05/2022 - 12:44

            @Ezuku: Quartz almost always trumps mechanical any day due to the simplicity.

            The more moving parts and complex something is, the more points of failure (and inaccuracy).
            Anything magnetic can magnetize the hairspring in the balance wheel.

            • dcep on 08/05/2022 - 14:52

              @cwongtech: i think he meant digital casio

              • cwongtech on 08/05/2022 - 16:03

                @dcep: That's powered by a quartz crystal as well :)

      • Shard on 08/05/2022 - 12:59
        -1

        A real luxury watch is one that chuffs your bits while the AD chuffed your wife's bits.

        OK ciao!

    • Timboj on 08/05/2022 - 09:39
      +3

      I've got the black on bracelet, and I really think the promotional photos don't do this one justice. It's quite stunning for a "non-luxury" watch. For the price I wish they'd given it a better movement, but it's fine.

      I've owned several turtles (pepsi is my daily), samurais and a SPB085J1 which I still own but I'm looking to sell soon. Honestly the SPB077J is my favourite.

      • Save Medicare on 08/05/2022 - 09:50
        +2

        FML i bought it

        • Emeister on 08/05/2022 - 09:52

          Congratulations!
          Easy resell.
          Consider any (minimal) loss as a rental fee!

        • Wayne on 08/05/2022 - 12:51

          Congrats. I’m close to purchase too

      • maverickjohn on 08/05/2022 - 10:12
        +1

        The movement is great
        6r15
        50 hrs power reserve +25/-15 seconds a day
        6r35 is better due to 70hr reserve but this isn't bad

      • zonra on 08/05/2022 - 11:35

        How does this wear compared to the turtle and samurai?
        The turtle wears fine for me but the sammie is pushing the envelope a bit. Just making sure this wouldn’t wear bigger before I start researching and persuading the wife.

        • Timboj on 10/05/2022 - 13:52

          Sorry about the late reply. These are quite petite in how they wear compared to the turtle and especially the samurai.

    • G-rig on 09/05/2022 - 06:06

      Getting a few to start with gets one familiar with specs, styles, key features/desires at least, assuming you're interested in them.

      You don't need to spend a fortune to get a well spec'd quality watch these days, just have to do them research. Depends if you want a big brand Swisse made automatic etc.

      This seiko looks pretty nice though, they typically do very nice hands and faces. I'd personally go for a bracelet version, these rubber strap styles look massive and chunky (and cheap). Also need to check the 'lug to lug dimension', this would wear pretty large on most wrists I am guessing (~<50mm is good with end links/strap that points downwards).

      At least this one has sapphire crystal for that price. The main issue is when RRP $700 Seikos are still using old movements, no sapphire crystal, cheap press clasps and rattly bracelets. Better choices out there but obviously there are some good models the more you pay.
      It's a good brand but better options these days- half the RRP is probably a reasonable deal, but no one should pay full RRP on a Seiko.

  • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 09:07
    +2

    I’ve two of these in different colours. It’s an excellent watch. The quality and finish of the case are fantastic for the price. Much better quality than the entry level watches. Plus, it has increased power reserve over the basic 4R movement. Wears like a 42mm.

    • ShouldIBuyIt on 08/05/2022 - 11:57

      Is it thiner than a samurai?

      • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 14:44

        Don't have a Samurai, but just compare the thickness with the online specs.

  • Emeister on 08/05/2022 - 09:10
    +1

    A couple of months ago I would have jumped on this but I'm realising that there is already too much crossover in my Seiko collection.
    After 10+ years of collecting I couldn't bring myself to pay what real luxury watches are going for now.
    If I was starting over again this could be a true contender for a one watch collection.

  • pembajak_sejati on 08/05/2022 - 09:19
    +1

    is this 6r35 movement? for $600 hard to beat this one.. i cant think any in term of quality. Or maybe steeldive lol

    • Emeister on 08/05/2022 - 09:34

      6R15 in this one.

      I was close to mentioning Steeldive in my post. Lots of happy customers out there it seems.

      • G-rig on 09/05/2022 - 06:12

        +1 for steeldive.
        Would still like an upgraded skx007 one day but the prices are outrageous now and missed the boat on them when they were reasonably cheap watches. The steeldive is excellent.

        Cronos microbrand does reportedly the best sub mariner homages if you wanted to spend more.

    • zonra on 08/05/2022 - 11:37
      +1

      The indices on my $100 Steeldive Willard are sharper and nicer than the actual Willard I’ve checked out in stores.
      Crazy value.

      • WatchNerd on 08/05/2022 - 12:46

        Were you wearing your Steeldive at the time? That would have been funny.

        • zonra on 08/05/2022 - 18:20
          +1

          That would’ve been quite awkward ;)

  • Fuzor on 08/05/2022 - 09:36

    How do you specify your wrist size? Or do you need to adjust elsewhere?

    • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 09:50

      What? You can measure your wrist size with a piece of string and then hold it against a ruler. If you have a smaller wrist that is flat, then it might work. I’d recommend this watch for wrists over 7 inch. For reference it wears larger than my SKX, but smaller than my Turtle. It is larger than than the current MM200 case I have and the same as the MM300 I have (only much thinner!).

      • Fuzor on 08/05/2022 - 10:08

        Sorry I meant for the steel bracelet on the 077j

        • Save Medicare on 08/05/2022 - 10:10
          +1

          You can size it with a spring bar tool which is like $10 ($30 for a bergeon branded one) or pay some guy at the shopping centre $10 to do it for you

          • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 11:13

            @Save Medicare: You will need more than a spring bar tool for the steel bracelet (it doesn’t come with one on this model) since it uses a pin and collar system. For the silicone strap, a spring bar tool is fine. They are cheap as chips.

  • AustriaBargain on 08/05/2022 - 09:55
    -6

    I swear I seen this watch at Smokemart for $12.49.

  • ZilogX on 08/05/2022 - 10:02

    IMHO 44mm With a rubber Expando diver strap is going to wear slightly huge on anyone short of the rock… Even their "monster" is only 42.5

    • garage sale on 08/05/2022 - 10:24

      i usually go for stainless band and swap to synthetic strap if needed, stainless wear smaller and fit under shirt cuffs easier , find with rubber strap need to pull shirt cuffs over the band rather than gravity does it.

    • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 11:16

      The case is 44mm, but the bezel is much smaller. The case a wedge sort of profile. Wears like 42 or 41mm. It’s Seiko case magic. The strap does not wear huge at all, however, I swapped mine for a flat, smooth FKM strap. Looks great.

      • ZilogX on 08/05/2022 - 14:18

        Nice one

      • trueaye on 08/05/2022 - 14:38
        +1

        It's 51mm! lug to lug though. "Seiko magic" comes from curved or short lugs like on the turtle, monster or the tuna. This model has more European styling in the case shape so I don't see Seiko magic applying at all. It's the lug to lug that ultimately determine sizing. I don't get how people don't realise this. ZilogX is right. The only time this watch looks reasonably sized is worn on top of a wet suit.

  • canberrascooter on 08/05/2022 - 10:10

    wow that is cheap for a 6R15

    • ihfree on 08/05/2022 - 10:23
      +2

      Buy the watch, not the movement.

      • garage sale on 08/05/2022 - 10:26

        yeah, needs to look the part ….and this looks like mainstream seiko divers, not very distinctive but if you like the colour and shape that’s all that matters.

    • Save Medicare on 08/05/2022 - 10:25
      +3

      Got my SARB035 with 6R15 at $400 full retail price 5 years ago… Inflation is real

  • Radzy7 on 08/05/2022 - 11:10

    I don't know much about the SPB077J but after a quick research it uses the 6R15. I would suggest going for the SPB101J. Upgraded 6R35 movement, appears to be the same size with minor changes to the bezel.

    Starbuy has the SPB101J for $690 currently:
    https://starbuy.com.au/seiko-sumo-prospex-spb101j/

    Also Starbuy is an authorised Seiko dealer.

    • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 11:21

      The new MM200 wears much smaller than this original MM200, thus the newer version can suit more wrist sizes - reflected in it popularity. This version feels more premium too, especially on an SS bracelet. I’m holding both right now to compare. The newer MM200 has an upgraded power reserve, which is very appealing.

      • Fuzor on 08/05/2022 - 11:49

        Which feels more premium? The new one or this original?

        • ilikeit on 08/05/2022 - 14:46
          +1

          The original.

    • Wayne on 08/05/2022 - 11:28
      +1

      The Sumo is 45mm and wears big. The SPB077 has a 42mm bezel and is a better watch. A descendant from the 1968 diver and MM300, this is nicknamed the MM200.

      This is a steal. Newer models have the 6R35 but are 40mm but wears a lot smaller. Best try it on if you can.

    • Homerlovesbeer on 08/05/2022 - 12:09

      I'll upvote this to cancel out the neg. No idea why someone would neg your post but you posted an opinion backed up with good info.
      Cheers

    • Homerlovesbeer on 08/05/2022 - 12:17

      I actually prefer the sumo too.
      Thanks

    • garage sale on 08/05/2022 - 13:02

      Hoping starbuy does a deal on a seiko speedmaster or something new, already have 2 turtles, 3 samurais, several eco drives ….. their deals are sometimes so cheap I just ended up buying but now I want a few things they haven't discounted in a while.

    • Mybabyburrito on 08/05/2022 - 13:55

      Thanks for linking the SPB101J.

      Found the hulk and really tempted to get this one: https://starbuy.com.au/seiko-sumo-prospex-spb103j/

      Is there a sign up discount for starbuy for their newsletter?

      Also those that have both the Sumo and Prospex, which do you prefer and why?

      This will be my first watch …

      • Domicron on 08/05/2022 - 14:28

        Sumo is a Prospex.

        Sumo, 70hours reserve.

        • Mybabyburrito on 08/05/2022 - 14:29

          Sorry, I meant the Sumo v the watch OP has shared SPB079J

          • Domicron on 08/05/2022 - 14:31

            @Mybabyburrito: Sumo. It gets used more frequent than the Snowflake.
            - suits more casual attire
            - it's cheap (relatively) and won't hurt as much if it is damaged
            - looks good (personal preference)

            The one posted has an older movement with 50hours reserve. If that is not an issue, the stainless steel strap one is awesome.

            • Mybabyburrito on 08/05/2022 - 14:55
              +1

              @Domicron: Just went into Bevilles and tried it on.

              I'm pretty sold on it, thanks!

        • pointnlarf on 09/05/2022 - 10:54

          I got the Sumo and have gone full circle with other options. Had tunas et al but if you have large wrists the Sumo should suit as it does me….

          On the other hand this is a bargain and a beautiful watch…

      • Radzy7 on 08/05/2022 - 16:52
        -1

        I love that Green Sumo! great choice.

        As Domicron said, 6R35 movement has improved power reserve +20h and +1 extra jewel and is considered to be the successor to the 6R15 movement.

        If it suits your wrist size, in my opinion the improvement on power reserve and stainless watch band are worth the extra $90. I have had my eye on the SPB101J, SPB103J and SPB181J for a while and I have not seen them cheaper this year.

      • Gunnar on 08/05/2022 - 22:01

        I have the previous version of this watch (jade green dial, yellow second hand). Model is SZSC004.

        It wears big, it’s quite a thick watch and with the bracelet it’s a pretty top heavy watch. I don’t like the bracelet, feels a bit chintzy. It’s okay but I didn’t really like it.

        One thing to note in this if you want to change straps is that it’s hard to get straps becuase of how the spring bars are located to the case. Went through a ton of straps (anything with curved ends look weird and are generally too thin). A thick leather strap works well (again it’s the case size). In the end i settled on a crafter blue strap which is a lot more comfortable than the bracelet. Wear the thing a lot more than I did before

  • ShouldIBuyIt on 08/05/2022 - 11:52
    +3

    For a website specialised in watches they are quite lazy with description and specs.
    Here is a hands on article
    Saphire, 50hrs reserve

  • Domicron on 08/05/2022 - 13:07
    +1

    What a bargain for what is offered! A beautiful watch that is affordable and good as a daily workhose.

  • Davo1111 on 08/05/2022 - 13:12

    I like the look of it.

    Have a 40mm solar that's similar. Not sure id want bigger, but if it suits you then good choice

  • tooch83 on 08/05/2022 - 15:21
    +3

    This is a very good price for one of these. They were selling for closer to $1000 not long ago. I had one, wore it heaps and really loved it, it looked like and wore like a more expensive watch.

    If you're a bracelet guy like I am, you can get the original bracelet from "Gnomon watches" in Singapore, and it will arrive in a few days.

  • garetz on 08/05/2022 - 18:04

    Just as i was going to buy it went out of stock.

  • Magicbee on 08/05/2022 - 19:08

    Amazing watch! The black version with the metal bracelet for $799 brand new is a steal! I got mine preowned at this price 2 years ago.

  • Emeister on 09/05/2022 - 10:12

    Showing as available again.
    Monday morning stocktake?

  • havequick on 09/05/2022 - 11:34
    +1

    Ughh, if only this didn't have a 6Rxx movement. Ticking timebomb.

    • G-rig on 09/05/2022 - 11:51

      The 4R35/36 (and NH35/36 for non-seiko branded watches) are a great workhorse for a reasonable price, the latter pretty easy and cheap to replace)

    • Wayne on 09/05/2022 - 15:01

      Ha. Yes, the accuracy is ok but they are erratic. No where near an ETA.

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