Latest Review
As I mentioned in my post on the J.Crew x Timex Andros, I recently acquired a Seiko 5 SNZH53. It took me a little hunting to get it, and I eventually got it from Skywatches, which is based out of Singapore, but it was very worth it. The SNZH53 was just one of those must have watches for me.
The first time I saw an image of it, when I was researching heritage divers, my jaw dropped opened, I muttered “oh dear” and then I sought out where to buy one. Why did I have this reaction? Well, every other similar watch, that has the features and vintage style points as this watch, is at least $500 and often very rare (see M2k Stingrays). Plus, this is a Seiko 5, and as I already knew from my SNK803k2, which meant it would be a well-built and reliable watch. And, of course, there are the looks of the watch. Though all of the various color-ways are worth note, I was particularly attracted to the 53, because of its blue face and bezel, which I felt made it slightly more obscure, interesting and would give it a unique place in my collection.
So, it arrived, excitement overwhelmed me and I opened up the package. The second I took this out of the box, I knew I was in love. Like my other Seiko 5, the first thing I noticed was the weight and the build quality. This watch has a substantial heft to it, one you can certainly feel when wearing, that lets you know you are not playing with a toy or imitation. It is also is a decent size at 42mm x 14mm, which I find to be a proper “large” watch for my wrist, whereas 45+ begins to be oversized. Everything on the SNZH is really nicely put together. The bezel is tight and clicks with a very satisfying sound. The crown is nice and sturdy. The domed hardlex crystal has an elegant shape that bevels down to where it meets the bezel, which is the sort of detailing that really makes this watch so loveable. And, of course, it is simply beautiful.
So far, so good. One thing to note, the watch comes on a metal bracelet that, let’s just say, is more obligatory than it is meant as a real bracelet. What I mean is, I simultaneously ordered the blue/grey striped NATO strap, as I knew I wasn’t going to use the generic metal bracelet it came with. I am eager to try it on a light/honey brown leather strap as well. Full review and gallery to follow in 2 weeks.
