Monday 15 January 2018

Pull The Trigger : Seiko Marine Master 300 (SBDX017)?


Readers might remember that I went on a consolidation round with Seiko watches in April last year with the intention to have only the MM300 as the Seiko representative in my collection as written @ https://andywristwatches.blogspot.my/2017/04/seiko-marine-master-300-sbdx017.html; and todate, I have flipped off 17 pieces of Seiko watches from various models. And it may seem that the 18th piece to be added into my collection could well indeed be the MM300.


Note that there were 2 models under the MM300 i.e. the initial SBDX001 and subsequent, SBDX017 (the one with DiaShield treatment to resist scratches better). I would opt towards the newer and improved piece in the SBDX017. Although coated with the DiaShield application, the watch case and bracelet could still be scratched. And that bezel may look like it was ceramic like the Rolex Submariner of today, but it was actually layers of paint so you have to be quite careful with it to avoid scratches all over the bezel. Unlike bezel inserts as used for the entry-level SKX and Turtle-reissue Seikos, you would be looking at the replacement of a whole bezel if you want to get rid of any scratches and some owners were quoted some US$250 ono for the part. So you may have to baby the MM300 if you intend to leave it in pristine condition.



Back in April 2017, the exchange rate was still not in local buyers' favour such that the price was circa RM10k. 9 months later now, exchange rate is better now and you could get a piece of new SBDX017 for circa RM7.8k, with complimentary international courier. Market talk was that the exchange rate would further increase in Ringgit's favour until at least around the general election period, so there could be possibilities of netting a brand new piece for circa RM6.5k.


Already, local grey resellers were gradually reducing the asking prices of MM300 from RM9.8k to lowest at RM6.6k currently. There could be room for negotiation still if the sellers enjoyed bulk discounts, so it's really up to your discussion with the sellers.









So, is it time to get a piece of action on the MM300? I am seriously thinking about this right now.

9 comments:

  1. For RM7k, you could get a real Swiss watch. Something like the Oris 65. Swiss watch is better than Japanese watch lah, bro.

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  2. You spend so much on a Seiko, people also think that it is a cheap watch because Seiko = Cheap. I know the movement is GS undecorated one, but most people don't know. And you always buy, write and sell; so 6 months later, only worth RM5k, where got worth it?

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    Replies
    1. Dear Chai, I am interested to buy this model after reading Datuk's writing today. So you think it's not worth RM7k?

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    2. If RM4k - RM5k used with warranty, then ok lah. If more expensive, better don't lah.

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    3. Okay okay, TQ for your advice.

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  3. I just read both your comments above, and I gathered that Chai is not a Seiko-lover. Law may be new to higher-end Seiko watches. Well, anyway, to each is his own. Most collectors felt that Swiss movements are better but the 8L35 is no slouch either, although it is undecorated and unregulated when placed in the MM300 compared to Grand Seiko watches. Anyway, I welcome any healthy debates and if this thread serves as a platform towards educating ourselves, then it's a good thing. Look out for my review if I do go on this route with the MM300. Cheers.

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  4. Seiko produces really good watches especially those higher end model like GS or prospex/presage line up, bang for bucks is unbeatable. However the resell value is relatively lower due to the brand perception towards 'Seiko', with the main reason being they produce watches with huge range in term of price, and often people with lower social status could wear a Seiko wrist watch.

    However if you go through the history of Seiko, you will find out that Seiko is nothing short of amazing. Rich history, innovation etc and most importantly being able to produce 'in-house movement'. For instance, spring drive (in higher end seiko) or even lower end movement like 4R36/6R15 are produced in-house (do correct me if i am wrong) and the performance is comparable with ETA (which is used by most of the Swiss group band)

    the point is that you get an 'in-house movement' from a rich history watch maker with just a fraction/half of the price of a swiss piece. IMHO,I don't see why not

    anyway just my two-cent,cheers

    ReplyDelete
  5. Seiko produces really good watches especially those higher end model like GS or prospex/presage line up, bang for bucks is unbeatable. However the resell value is relatively lower due to the brand perception towards 'Seiko', with the main reason being they produce watches with huge range in term of price, and often people with lower social status could wear a Seiko wrist watch.

    However if you go through the history of Seiko, you will find out that Seiko is nothing short of amazing. Rich history, innovation etc and most importantly being able to produce 'in-house movement'. For instance, spring drive (in higher end seiko) or even lower end movement like 4R36/6R15 are produced in-house (do correct me if i am wrong) and the performance is comparable with ETA (which is used by most of the Swiss group band)

    the point is that you get an 'in-house movement' from a rich history watch maker with just a fraction/half of the price of a swiss piece. IMHO,I don't see why not

    anyway just my two-cent,cheers

    ReplyDelete
  6. I bought the watch but it feels cheap compared to my Sub. It's for sale if anyone is interested.

    ReplyDelete