Simple Living

My Seiko SSB003 Arrival and Review It arrived! I got the Seiko SSB003 in the mail, and it's a very nice watch. Aesthetics Dial: More of a glossy silver than 'white.' Pics don't do it justice; it's a very appealing color. Sub-Dial: Three registers at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock. The black color contrasts nicely with the silver dial. Bracelet: 20mm steel. It's cheap and rattly but okay. Identical to one used on some SNKK Seiko 5 series. Bezel: Interesting design— the case is a unibody, so the bezel is not a separate piece. Size: A nice 40mm watch with a more conservative and classic feel. The height is about 10mm, comparable in dimensions to my Omega Seamaster 2531.80. Weight: The case has some heft, while the bracelet is very light; the total weight is the same as my Rolex Explorer. Usage Chronograph: Uses the 6T63 movement. Some call it a 'MechaQuartz' since the chronograph functions just like a pure mechanical chronograph watch. The big red seconds h...

Exploring Seiko's SNDF and SCEB Lines Wow, there are indeed an endless number of Seiko models! The SNDF line stands out with its retro and classy vibes. Here are a few models I find particularly appealing: SNDF35 - White/Red Stripe SNDF37 - Black, Red Bezel SNDF87 - White/Blue, Orange Seconds SNDF93 - White/Blue, Yellow Seconds I’m considering picking one up, leaning towards the 87 or 93, but the 35 looks gorgeous too! Bezel Issues with the SNDF Models After some thought, I'm glad I didn't pull the trigger right away. The SNDF35 and SNDF37 models have a redundant 12-hour bezel, which doesn’t add much functional value. While their color schemes are nice, the extra hour mark indicators seem unnecessary. The SNDF87 is beautiful, but I’ve noticed complaints online regarding the blue bezel. As I examine it more closely, I tend to agree—it feels like a design misstep. Plus, they seem large; I hope they’re not beyond 42mm. Other Considerations: SNDD and SCEB I also have my...

Exploring Seiko Watches What is it with Seiko watches? I’m smitten with several models lately! The SSB007 chronograph is stunning and vividly reminds me of my first watch, a humble Guess Chronograph. The Arctura GMT model SUN003 with a black dial is also amazing, showcasing futuristic curves and design. I miss my old Guess Chronograph; while it wasn’t anything special horologically, it holds sentimental value as my first watch. The SSB line looks awfully close, and some are going for $100 brand new on Amazon, making them very affordable!   SSB003 - White Panda To help me decide, I’m listing various models and styles to pick which one is right for me. So far, I like the first few in the series: the 001, 003, 007, or 013. SSB001 - White SSB003 - Silver/black Panda, red seconds SSB005 - Blue SSB007 - Black SSB009 - White, gold TT SSB011 - Black, black bezel, red seconds SSB013 - White/black Panda, red seconds SSB015 - Black (looks identical to 007) SSB017 - White, Roman XII,...

Audio Technica Experience Absolutely! The Audio Technica M50s really do sound better with age. Some people refer to it as "burning in," but I think it's more about getting used to their sound and becoming familiar with their audio signature. However, there are limits to their use. The M50s block out external sound quite a bit, which isn't great at work when someone might be yelling my name across the office or cubicle, and I can't hear them. Plus, you can crank up the volume without realizing it, but others can definitely hear you since they leak sound quite a bit. They’re also not ideal when wearing glasses or while on the move, like walking or running. However, for a busy coffee shop, a noisy airplane ride, or when you just want to chill in bed with some tunes, they're perfect. On the other hand, I found the smaller Audio Technica WM77s to be perfect for work. They provide a decent soundstage without sacrificing the ability to hear others around me in the of...

Enjoying Studying at Home I'm really enjoying studying at home. It’s much more convenient and cheaper! I'm loving it. I'm actually doing this while I have to do laundry, as I wanted to take care of it today so I can be totally free tomorrow.

Studying at Home This weekend, I'm studying at home and picked up some Starbucks drinks at the local grocery store. They taste surprisingly good and are cheaper than buying them at the actual Starbucks shop. While there's definitely joy in drinking coffee at Starbucks, this is a great alternative when I want to stay in. My favorite drink is the 11 oz Iced Coffee with Milk (ICM). At only 50 calories, it's not bad at all!

Coffee Bean Study Session I found a spot available at Coffee Bean! Onward to the studies. I switched back to my M50s, which are much better for noisy coffee shops. Let's get to work!

Back to the Books I started my morning by doing laundry and then enjoyed a late lunch. Now, I'm hitting the books again! I brought along my Audio-Technica 55s for some great sound and am using my new iPad case, which is a gorgeous green color. It's so much better than my old drab black case!

Late Lunch and More Studying I'm going to grab a late lunch before heading over to a coffee shop for some more studying! I’ll be settling into a window seat with my raspberry iced tea. It’s shaping up to be an awesome weekend and an awesome day!

A Perfect Spot The place is packed, but I managed to snag a spot by the corner with a window view. It's the perfect setting to dive into my studies!

Chapter 6 - New Beginnings Everywhere was packed today. I wasted an hour driving around and eventually just went home. On my way, I picked up a raspberry iced tea to refresh myself. Now it's time for Chapter 6! To set the mood, I'm playing "World Order - Welcome to Tokyo."

Chapter 5 - Grouping & Windowing SQL Currently diving into Chapter 5, focusing on Grouping & Windowing in SQL. I'm enjoying a strawberry smoothie as I study—good stuff! There are multiple ways to group data and utilize various options, like using a Common Table Expression (CTE).

Another Weekend, More Study Alright, let's get it cracking! Another weekend means more study. I ended up at Starbucks since the other coffee shop had no parking. The lighting here is good, and the seats are comfortable, so I might just return to Starbucks in the future. I hope to push ahead and try to knock out chapters 4, 5, and 6 today. With 17 chapters total, completing these three would put me one-third of the way to completion.

Exploring New Styles with My Rolex Explorer I’ve put the Rolex Explorer I back on the Hirsch leather strap . Even though it digs into the sides a bit, I’m really enjoying the overall look and feel. After using this combo for a few weeks, it’s proven to be very comfortable. The Appeal of Leather While I love the steel bracelet for its durability and classic appeal, there’s something about leather that gives the watch a more casual and low-key vibe that I really appreciate. It’s amazing how a simple strap change can transform the entire aesthetic of a watch! New Desires And now, how funny is it that I find myself desiring a Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso ? It’s interesting to see how my tastes change over time. I’m curious to see what will capture my attention next!

Reflecting on My Study Journey Here's an older pic from when I first started studying for the MCSA certification. This was one of my last times at Starbucks, and looking back, the lighting, chairs, and tables were surprisingly comfortable compared to another coffee shop I've been frequenting recently. I might just consider returning! The "Study Shot" I like to mark these moments with a 'study shot' to capture my progress and dedication. It’s always interesting to look back and see how far I’ve come. What About You? So, what are you studying today? Whether it's a certification, a new skill, or just a personal project, I'd love to hear about it!

Late-Night Study Session I decided to put my study habits to the test and found myself studying at 3 AM . To my amazement, I wasn't alone; there were others also burning the midnight oil. Granted, most of them seemed to be students still in school, while I'm diving into this voluntarily, but it was a strange camaraderie of sorts. A Unique Experience It’s been a while since I pulled an all-nighter, and I found it weird to see the morning light breaking in as I was still engrossed in my studies. There’s something oddly invigorating about the quiet hours of the night when the world is asleep, and it feels like you’re in a different realm of focus and concentration. Reflections While I don’t plan on making this a regular occurrence, it was a refreshing change. The stillness of the early morning hours created an atmosphere that was conducive to deep thought and learning. It reminded me of the dedication that comes with pursuing knowledge, no matter the time of day. Here’s to more pr...

My First iPhone: iPhone 5 I remember my first iPhone vividly—it was the iPhone 5. I waited eagerly at the Apple Store, back when lining up on launch day (Sept 12, 2012) was still the ultimate tech fan experience. Given the demand, I was limited in my choice and ended up with the 16 GB model in white. A Simpler Time for iPhone Choices Back then, options were straightforward. There were only one or two color choices and a few storage options. Apple had just one model of iPhone, and it made the experience feel focused and special. The Step Up from Samsung Before the iPhone, I couldn’t afford Apple’s flagship device and relied on more affordable Samsung models. When I finally picked up that sleek iPhone 5 on launch day, it felt like a milestone—a sense of arrival in the Apple ecosystem. Reflecting on the iPhone 5 Looking back, while it was exciting, the iPhone 5 was a good phone but not extraordinary by today’s standards. Samsung has made impressive strides since then, becoming more consis...

Studying for the MCSA Certification The MCSA certification is proving to be much more rigorous than I initially anticipated. Currently, I'm focused on the first book, "Training Kit 70-461: Querying Microsoft SQL Server," and it's packed with a wealth of information. It's definitely taking me some time to digest everything, and I recognize that this will not be an easy journey. Insights from the Study Even though I've written and utilized much of the code discussed in the book over the years, the in-depth exploration of SQL Server's functionalities has really humbled me. I’m beginning to see how my previous coding practices might not be up to par with best practices, which is both eye-opening and motivating. My Study Setup My typical study arrangement includes: Iced Coffee: Keeps me refreshed and alert. iPad: For reading and taking notes. Headphones: Helps to block out distractions and immerse myself in the material. Pen & Paper: For jotting down ...

Thoughts on the Breguet 5907 and Alternatives The Breguet 5907 is definitely one of my dream watches. However, I'm often torn between that and the allure of owning a Patek Philippe. While the world seems to view Patek as the pinnacle of watchmaking and considers Breguet a high-end brand—just not quite in the same league—the reality is that a pre-owned 5907 costs about $10,000, which means it won’t be in my collection anytime soon. Considering a Homage As a more practical solution, I've been looking at homage watches rather than outright replicas or knockoffs. The best option I’ve found is the Rotary GS02424 . Although it resembles the Breguet 5920 more closely due to its date complication, it still carries enough of the Breguet essence for me to be interested. Plus, with a price tag under $150, it's a reasonable deal. Fun fact: this is the same watch that Benedict Cumberbatch wears in the Sherlock Holmes series, and many people have confused it with a Breguet. My intention ...

Notes on Potential Seiko SKX Purchase I'm considering picking up an SKX again, possibly the mid-size 013 or the full-size 009 Pepsi model. Here's a breakdown of the various Seiko SKX models for reference: Seiko SKX Models Overview Full Size (40mm Dial, 22mm Lug) - 200M Rated 001 - Silver bezel 003 - 005 - Classic Trio 007 - Black 009 - Pepsi bezel 011 - Orange dial Other Variants 173 - Black with square hour markers 175 - Pepsi bezel 399 - Black with square applied markers 401 - Pepsi bezel Titanium Models 403 - Black dial, silver bezel 405 - Silver dial, silver bezel Monsters 779 - Black dial, silver bezel 781 - Orange dial, silver bezel Mid-Size (37mm Dial, 20mm Lug) 013 - Black 015 - Pepsi bezel 017 - Orange dial Mid-Size with 3 O'Clock Crown 021 - White dial 023 - Black dial 025 - Pepsi bezel 027 - White dial 031 - Black dial 033 - Pepsi bezel Conclusion I’ll keep these models in mind as I decide which one to go for. The mid-size 013 has a nice un...

Seiko 5 SNZF17J2: A Solid Choice for an Automatic Beater I initially wanted a Seiko 5 SNZF29 because its a better size, but finding one has proven challenging. The only listing I saw was asking for $400, which feels ridiculous for a basic Seiko 5. Instead, I picked up the larger SNZF17J2, and it’s not too bad. The glossy black dial features applied indices with decent lume, and it fits 22mm straps beautifully, especially on a dark brown leather band. The Downsides However, there are a few drawbacks. The bezel quality is subpar—it does turn, but you really need to grip it tightly for it to move. It feels more like it's for show than for function. Since I bought mine pre-owned, it could be defective, but I remember the bezel action on the SKX007 being significantly better. In terms of accuracy, this watch typically runs about +15 to +20 seconds per day, which is average for the 7s movements. I’ve been experimenting with leaving it crown up at night, which seems to slow it down a bit;...

Seiko 5 Model SNKK33: A Great Value in Watches The Seiko 5 line of watches offers excellent value, with many models available new for around $70 to $80, and even less for used ones. They feature basic automatic movements, which, while not on par with higher-end ETA 2824 or 2892 movements, make them fantastic entry-level watches for those looking to get into the hobby. You won't feel too bad if you accidentally damage a $50 Seiko 5, but you might shed a tear over a $5,000 Rolex. Hirsch Liberty on Seiko 5 The SNKK33 typically comes with a stainless steel bracelet that feels quite flimsy and cheap, so I decided to swap it out for a leather band. I was pleasantly surprised by how good it looked on the Hirsch Liberty band, which fits perfectly since it accepts a 20mm strap (though it's worth noting that various Seiko 5 models can vary in size; for instance, the SKX007 takes a 22mm strap, while some other Seiko 5 models use 18mm bands). Overall, I love wearing this watch and feel com...

Studying SQL Server: New Insights Ahead SQL Server is next on my list of things to study, and I've come across some valuable insights in a book that looks promising. I’m excited to dive deeper into the world of SQL Server and enhance my skills.

Exciting Update: Hirsch Liberty Strap Arrives! The Hirsch Liberty strap has finally arrived!   I tried it on the Rolex first, but unfortunately, it was way too thick and rubbed against the case. So, I decided to stick with the black leather strap for that one. However, when I put it on the Omega, wow—I absolutely love it! I can't quite describe it, but the combination of blue and brown exudes a vibe reminiscent of a classic maritime era. I'm very happy with the Hirsch; the Omega looks significantly better with the brown strap. Just a heads up—the Hirsch Liberty is quite thick at 4mm, which is about twice the thickness of my other leather straps. I also gave it another try on the Explorer. It was a really tight fit, but it looks decent. The black dial paired with the brown strap is visually appealing, though the thickness is still noticeable. I'll wear it for a while and see if it grows on me. Comfort-wise, it's nice!

Revamping My Omega Seamaster with New Straps I recently sourced a 20mm rubber Bonetto Cinturini 285 strap from an old Casio watch and decided to try it on my Omega Seamaster 2531.80. To my surprise, it actually looks quite good, giving the watch a more sporty feel. I've been experimenting with various watch bands to see what works best, and while the black leather band looked okay, the rubber strap definitely feels better. I also plan to try a Hirsch Liberty Brown Leather band next, followed by a Hadley Roma PU Ballistic Band in black with orange stitching. I’m particularly excited about the Hadley Roma; I believe it will make my Omega truly sing. Since I spend most of my time on a computer, the stainless steel band has been getting scuffed up, and I’m looking for a fresh look. Additionally, my arm tends to expand during the hot summer months, and I’m tired of constantly adjusting the links. The Omega isn't the most user-friendly when it comes to resizing the metal band. A simp...

Rediscovering My CD Collection with the M50s I recently pulled out my old CD collection to test out my M50 headphones, and it's been a nostalgic journey. My collection may be modest and a bit eclectic, but it’s filled with artists whose vocals and lyrics have always resonated with me. I find myself gravitating toward legendary voices like Jim Morrison, Freddie Mercury, and Phil Collins. And, here’s a little secret: I’ve got a soft spot for Utada Hikaru, especially her work before the Exodus album. Current Track: Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight As I sit here listening to Phil Collins' “In the Air Tonight” (Track 15 on my CD), it’s amazing how quickly the music brings me back to the 80s. This song, with its unforgettable ambiance, was part of a memorable scene in Risky Business with Tom Cruise. That movie captured a carefree, rebellious spirit—back when life felt simpler and a little more spontaneous. Moments like this make me want to go back and rewatch the film!