As I write this I'm watching Apocalypse Now on BBC iPlayer and I'm thinking, maybe I need a Seiko Willard. But there seems to be lots of options at a lot of price points. Which Seiko model is closest to the film version? Which model is the best bang for one's buck? Which model is better for a smaller wrist? I'm interested in an actual Seiko, rather than a homage.
The original Willard is fantastic and I really like the current reissues.
I think the SRP777 (now SRPE93) offers the ‘best bang for the buck’ as can be bought for under £300 new.
I like the look of the mini turtle (SPB317) and may get one.
Still learning about Seiko references!
Edit: sorry, I was thinking turtles in general rather than specifically Willard’s!
Last edited by Ghost Chilli; 4th December 2022 at 11:03.
SLA 033
not sure if its the best bang for your buck (although there was a bargain price one recently in SC), but this is the best modern version.
The bezel action on this watch is the nicest I have ever experienced /used..
I have the 237 reissue model. Despite the large diameter they are perfect for small wrists as the lug to lug isn't much more than the diameter.
The 237 is about £1200rrp, mine was £900 in a sale, and can be found for £600-700 used.
I chose the 237 because the black reissue is too black if you know what I mean, it looks to me like a 6105 has had a later aftermarket dial fitted, whereas the faux vintage lume and dial colour of the 237 looks more like an original. I know some here dislike faux aged lume but to me a vintage reissue looks wrong without it.
I discounted all the other versions, green, blue, pvd etc, as the original was black only. Saying that I saw the pvd one in a window in Swansea the other week and it's a handsome beast to be sure.
Thoroughly happy with mine, its now worn nearly all the time except when a gshock takes over for rougher duties.
It does look nice, and a good price. The short lug to lug makes it appealing.Originally Posted by Ruggertech
I am attracted by the slimness of the SPB317. SLA 033 is lovely, but outside my price range.
Tried a few of the modern releases but I think if I was to revisit the line, it would have to be an original 6105.
Prices have spiked and the challenge would be sourcing a “good un” but if vintage isn’t your thing, the SPB151 is worth a look. Slightly smaller dimensions but decent value second hand.
The only one really worth having is the 6105-8110/8119, the modern ones just don't have the same class.
I would love an original but I can’t be doing with a vintage watch to be honest. I like to use my watches in water without worry.
My daily wearer SRP7751 next to my SLA033J1. I did own an SPB151 as well but it did wear small next to the SLA and SRP and got flipped pretty quickly. Good for smaller wrists though.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Last edited by Stilgoe1972; 4th December 2022 at 12:03.
I agree with quite a few - only an original, but plenty of research required to get an unmodernised/modded one.
Last edited by MacDeath; 12th December 2022 at 12:30.
I got the green dial Willard from Goldsmiths, they often have 20% off online deals.
I have the SPB151J1 on the OEM bracelet which is pretty decent, but the Willard really comes into its own when worn on either the Waffle, Chocolate bar or Tire tread style rubber straps....Uncle Seiko (or Unclestraps as they are now known) make a fantastic reproduction of all three styles, which does give off that "Willard vibe" once swapped out.
Quick PSA for anyone interested. Hilliers have the pvd version for £702 at the moment.
Plenty reissues that are superb.But nothing quite like the original.
Sent from my SM-A125F using Tapatalk
Buy the steeldive version for a tenth of the cost , 90% as good and probably better timekeeping and alignment , and made in same factory allegedly
Sent from my Pixel 6 using TZ-UK mobile app
Steeldive made in the Seiko factory?
Alleged by whom??
Sincerely doubt that
Total and utter horse shite.
Seiko have subsidiaries in china , cases , movements and other parts are assembled there , lots of discussion on this on wus forums , the high end and grand Seiko are made totally in Japan
Sent from my Pixel 6 using TZ-UK mobile app
Well it’’’s your fault.
I popped into my local AD and they had the 237 out back.. so I tried it on.
That was that. Got a good deal as they know me…
Recon this will get a fair bit of wear.
Going to find a thinner Nato for it ( and I might order a bracelet)
Last one of 2022
Happy New Year
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Last edited by James.uk; 30th December 2022 at 13:18. Reason: Grammar
Raining again, if you are going to wear a "Willard" 6105-8119 then the original takes some beating imo.
I particularly wanted a new watch. I don’t really do vintage stuff as I’m always scared to use it.Raining again, if you are going to wear a "Willard" 6105-8119 then the original takes some beating imo.
So faux vintage is perfect.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Sort of a Willard.
Can't believe how much I like this one though.
Very nice John. Regret selling mine already.Raining again, if you are going to wear a "Willard" 6105-8119 then the original takes some beating imo.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I recently picked up the SPB151 (the non ISO one) to go with my SPB183. They’re a great fit for my wrist size/shape. Love ‘em.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote
