RM2k Homage Budget - Build or Buy?

[D'Andy]

I recently bought a Japan-made Seiko SKX009J Pepsi-bezel and although it costs but a small fraction of what we normally spend on our Swiss watches, I find myself liking this wear-and-go watch more and more. I then wanted to get its other sibling, the SKX007J Black-bezel. During the process of ordering for the said watch, the watchsmith introduced me to the modding scene since SKX was a very common platform for modifications; and that had me looking at transforming it into a Dagaz Black Bay tribute. The whole exercise inclusive purchase and workmanship would cost less than RM2k (and that's with the J version, not the cheaper K version).

At the same time, I fell in love with Steinhart's acceptable quality for its relatively low entry-cost, and I have always wanted to add another Steinhart into my collection after the 44mm Ocean Forty-Four purchase. I am thinking of the smaller 42mm Ocean One to complement its sibling in the watch winder. Entry cost would similarly be less than RM2k.

Both are Diver homages at low entry-costs, the types that you could wear for a bit and let go if you don't fancy it no more with not much damages to your pocket. If it was you, which would you go for- to build, or just buy?

From this :

To this :


or just this :

[ck77]

Too much money for a Seiko mod, get the Steinhart

[D'Andy]

Too much money for a Seiko mod, get the Steinhart

Well, the watchsmith did inform me that most modders utilise the SKX-K version, or SNK (crown at 3 o'clock), or Invicta as the BB base to keep the cost to RM1k+; but I prefer the J version. Just a personal preference thingy. Apple to apple monies, you'd support the ETA more then.

[tagger]

no big resale value.. i will just choose the design..

[ck77]

Too much money for a Seiko mod, get the Steinhart

Well, the watchsmith did inform me that most modders utilise the SKX-K version, or SNK (crown at 3 o'clock), or Invicta as the BB base to keep the cost to RM1k+; but I prefer the J version. Just a personal preference thingy. Apple to apple monies, you'd support the ETA more then.

Am also thinking to mod a Seiko 5 FFF.
Mind to PM me your modder details? TIA

[jason_recliner]

Bear in mind that the only difference between the J and K version is the printing on the dial. Swap the dials out and the J is even more of a waste.

That said, I'd go the Seiko mod. Rolex copies have no speak to me.

[Everdying]

Both are Diver homages at low entry-costs, the types that you could wear for a bit and let go if you don't fancy it no more with not much damages to your pocket. If it was you, which would you go for- to build, or just buy?

based on that alone, without a doubt the steinhart.

[hidden830726]

Off course Steinhart

Also take a look at Orient Mako /Mako XL too

[sinbad2k]

If I were you, and if I have a sizable collection of watches, I'd probably go for the Seiko mod. If I've just one or two watches, I'd go for Steinhart.

[kiamat]

definitely the steinhart.

[D'Andy]

Bear in mind that the only difference between the J and K version is the printing on the dial. Swap the dials out and the J is even more of a waste.

IIRC, I read in some international forums that the K models' rotor was noisier than that of the J models, although that could be particular to some bad examples. However, given that the premium between them was not too high, I have since been going for the J models as a personal preference.

Also take a look at Orient Mako /Mako XL too

Am not a fan of Orient's bracelets. They feel flimsy and cheap, from my experience with their M-Force models.

If I were you, and if I have a sizable collection of watches, I'd probably go for the Seiko mod. If I've just one or two watches, I'd go for Steinhart.

definitely the steinhart.

I have quite a modest few pieces in my collection still. But somehow, Steinhart is pretty addictive. Once you bought your first piece, then generally you'd feel like getting more pieces because they are just so darn affordable for the good quality that they are offering. Or it could be just me 

But yeah, I have since clicked on the buttons that send in my order to Steinhart 

[kiamat]

definitely the steinhart.

I have quite a modest few pieces in my collection still. But somehow, Steinhart is pretty addictive. Once you bought your first piece, then generally you'd feel like getting more pieces because they are just so darn affordable for the good quality that they are offering. Or it could be just me 

But yeah, I have since clicked on the buttons that send in my order to Steinhart 
[/quote]

 

[Calibr]

Steinhart's ETA movement is rather robust and keep good time. Nice lume too. GVFM!

[JeepWH]

Am also thinking to mod a Seiko 5 FFF.
Mind to PM me your modder details? TIA

I do offer modding services. PM me for details.

[D'Andy]

Deja vu to see this old thread surfacing upwards. Perhaps just to update, pursuant to the thread, I went for the Steinhart as the homage, and added a Tudor Black Bay as an actual collectible.

[Timeless]

Prefer Steinhart

[vobs]

Steinhart looks good...is it a reputable brand? Or it is a budget watch from swiss...im kinda newbie in world of watches haha

[D'Andy]

Steinhart looks good...is it a reputable brand? Or it is a budget watch from swiss...im kinda newbie in world of watches haha

It's a mini-brand with its HQ based in Germany, but its factory's based in Jura, Swiss. Parts used are mainly Swiss ETA movements. Quality is quite good in consideration to its low entry-prices, and it has also moved away from purely homage pieces to include its own designs. Would make a good buy for all and sundry. I'm quite a fan of this mini-brand; and its founder, Gunter Steinhart is a friendly chap who keeps in touch with fans and is rather helpful.

[chrisyen]

Steinhart ocean 1 vintage 

Homage to the vintage earlier version of Rolex sub

Modern tech
Good material
Swiss movement
Swiss made
Affordable price range
Less risk of modification

So no need to build this with seiko bro

[Ek lex]

Steinhart is definitely my choice! Like the homages or not, i have to say its small brand with big future!

Just to share my experience with Steinhart, got myself an Ocean 1 GMT ceramic last year, well, just realized the GMT hand was misaligned few months ago, have been pondering if i should send back to Steinhart or just ignore as it does not really serve much purpose rather than cosmetic purpose, in the end, i decided to write to Steinhart for a solution with photos attached. The very next day i got an apology reply from Steinhart admitting their mistake and gave me the instruction to send back to them by Fedex, of course all on their expenses as the watch is still under warranty. Well, watch was sent, 3 days later they acknowledged receipt of my watch, and 2 weeks later they informed me the GMT hand has been realigned and water resistance tested and ready to be shipped out. I reconfirmed my shipping address to them, and wallah... Got my watch back 3 days later, at zero cost! Of course, a happy customer here they have earn! I think other big brand may not even come close to the service level provided by this small company.

Last but not least, i would not hesiate to get another Steinhart knowing the quality of the watch, more importantly a good after sales service back up, way to go Steinhart!

[vobs]

Sorry newbie here...what do u mean to build? Customisation? Thanks

[mike]

Sorry newbie here...what do u mean to build? Customisation? Thanks

Yes, it is customisation. Changing dials, hands etc of the watch.

[hidden830726]

Orient Mako also ok what.