View single post by JHM
 Posted: Sat May 3rd, 2008 05:56 am
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JHM

 

Joined: Mon Jan 14th, 2008
Location: Germany
Posts: 155
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IanM wrote: As for the Marinemaster, Jan, I have heard all sorts of good things about them, but what elevates them above more "cooking" varieties like the Seiko Sumo SBDC001/3 and similar. Are they really that much better? I know the movement is dead accurate, they have a spectacular bracelet, and the name Marinemaster is recognised the world over (reflected in 2nd hand prices which are always quite high), but would you (by which I mean anyone) not be happier with 3 Sumos? Just a question - don't shoot me!

Hi Ian,

won't shoot you for sure :D; it is a legitimate question. I do own the SBDC003 and the SBDC005 Sumo and a couple of other Seikos with the 6R15 movement and they are all excellent watches and are probably the best value for money on the market IMHO. Accurancy on one on my Sumos cannot be topped as it is around +1 to-1 sec. per week.

However, I still haven't bought the black dialed Sumo. Why is that? Simply because I know that sooner or later I will acquire the Marinemaster. My motivation behind that is not necessarily the better quality as I am 100% content with the Sumos, but the step up concerning the movement: it is a 8L35 which is produced in very small numbers and is related to the Seiko Flagship movement, the 9S55. Furthermore, it has a monobloc case, which adds to the "chunky" feel holding it in your hands. Most importantly for me, I simply love its design and I must admit I do like its "anti"-image ;), meaning 99% of the worlds population does not know that it is a rather expensive watch (try that with a Rolex :cool:). So, is it worth spending triple amount on a Marinemaster compared to the Sumo? Rationally I would say no, but than people buy a Rolex Seadweller for the price of three Marinemasters ;) and I have met a person owning both who prefers the Seiko anytime...

In the end it should be your gut feeling which decides (and far too often your wallet, as well). Nobody should be convinced to buy a watch. However it is great to study the perception and taste of other people, as it can give you ideas :).

all the best

Jan