is seiko the best quality brand under $ 500?

I’ve acquired several Seikos within the past few months…all automatics that can be hand wound. Two of my favorites are their SARB017 and their SARX035…both JDM models. The cases are finished to an impressive level, the dials are beautiful, and they have sapphire crystals too. Unfortunately both of these models were discontinued a few years back, however, good clean preowned examples with original packaging and paperwork can be acquired fairly easily.

SARB017 (on a Jurgen’s leather strap)



SARX035 (on its original Seiko bracelet)

I think Marathon should be mentioned. They have many watches less than $500 and many that are more.

My vote for a sub 500 watch is the Citizen PCAT. 7 years of daily use on a Citizen Pcat. Got a second Pcat because of the first Pcat. At 500 and under, if on sale. PCAT stands for Perpetual Calendar Atomic Timekeeping. Solar powered but a little on the large side. Time zones, chronograph and tracks leap year as well, so nothing to worry about. Just set and forget. Dial is a little busy, but does a lot with good fit and finish. Sit on a window sill if not being worn for the weekend to keep the charge up, while you wear your Omega/nice watch to show off. And serves as a daily week beater for the office. Lots to love for me. I have the sub 500 Seiko too, but without the perpetual calendar and I just wish I had the perpetual calendar on the seiko as well. I guess I am becoming a perpetual calendar addict...

Seiko does not represent the value they did 10 years ago in the very affordable watch market IMO. I believe Orient or Orient Star represent a better value in the range being discussed

And yes, I do own a couple Seiko lol