Skip to main content

Seiko SKX781 - Orange Monster on Point

Cycling Through My Collection: The Seiko SKX781 Orange Monster

Recently, I’ve been cycling through my collection and have been sporting the Seiko SKX781, affectionately known as the Orange Monster. It’s fascinating how wearing larger watches, like the Victorinox INOX and Armani AR585, makes the SKX781 feel just right in terms of size.

Love/Hate Relationship

The SKX781 evokes a mixed bag of feelings; I can completely understand why people either love it or hate it. Over my five years of ownership, I've experienced both sides. Its bold and blunt styling—with the metal bezel and case—can be off-putting for some. However, this design gives it a more modern and unique vibe compared to other divers, particularly the more traditional Submariner-style bezels found on watches like the SKX007.

What Draws Me In

What truly attracted me to the SKX781 was its stunning orange dial. It’s undoubtedly one of the most legible dials I’ve encountered, and I wish more brands, including Seiko, would prioritize such clarity in their designs.

Another factor is that the Orange Monster is slightly smaller than the more popular SKX007. I previously owned both models, and I found the 007 a bit too large for my taste. However, I’m starting to feel more comfortable with larger sizes now.

The Price Shock

One aspect that surprises me is the resale value of the Gen 1 models, which can go for $400-$500. I remember picking mine up a few years ago for $130, even less when excluding shipping. While it's a good watch—a beautiful watch—paying $500 for it feels excessive.

The 7S26 movement is solid, but it’s an entry-level movement also found in many other Seiko 5 models, which can still be purchased new for about $100. The SKX781 does have the advantage of a robust 200-meter water-resistant case, which adds some value.

After researching, I’ve come to understand why prices have risen. Seiko upgraded the movement to a 4R36 starting with Gen 2, and then to the higher caliber 6R15 in Gen 3. For Gen 4, they reverted back to the 4R36 but no longer offer the orange dial option. This context makes it clear why the venerable original Gen 1 has become a sought-after piece.

A Good Watch

As I reflect on my watch collection, I realize that we often accumulate more timepieces than we can realistically wear. While I have a desire to add more watches, I find that I typically rotate among a few favorites.

Even though I usually opt for a quartz watch as my daily beater, I’ve decided to bring the Seiko back into regular rotation. There’s something captivating about the sweeping seconds hand, a reminder of the mechanical movement beating within. It’s these little details that bring joy and connection to the watch-wearing experience.




Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Sony MDR-ZX100 vs ZX-110 vs ZX310 Series Headphones

Sony ZX Series Headphones Review: A Budget-Friendly Sound Choice If you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly headphones with decent quality, the Sony ZX Series is definitely worth considering. I happen to own several models from the lineup: ZX-100 ZX-110 ZX-310 Let’s dive into how they compare in terms of build quality, cost, specs, sound, and overall value. Build Quality: ZX-310 Takes the Lead The Sony ZX series headphones primarily feature a durable plastic construction. My ZX-100 has lasted over 2½ years, enduring countless tosses into my backpack and car without any issues. However, the lower-end ZX-100 and ZX-110 models have a significant downside: poor-quality earpads. Over time, these earpads disintegrate, leaving vinyl flakes that stick to your hair and ears. The ZX-310, on the other hand, comes with upgraded earpads that don’t suffer from this problem, making them a clear winner in the build department. Cost Comparison: ZX-100/110 Wins for Affordability While the ZX-310 model co
9 comments
Read more

Casio G-Shock 5600 vs 6900 vs 9000

G-Shock Preferences and Favorites After trying out several G-Shock models, I've developed a better sense of the specific features and design elements I appreciate most. While features are always a plus, my main priority is size . Here's how some of the models I've tried stack up. Size Preference: DW-5600 Series For overall size, the DW-5600 series stands out as a favorite due to its compact, comfortable form. It’s slim, lightweight, and fits well on my wrist without being too bulky. Although the 6900 series provides the benefit of a well-placed front illumination button, the 5600 remains the ideal size for everyday wear. Best Compromise: G9000 Mudman Series If I had to choose a balanced option between size, comfort, and functionality, the G9000 Mudman series would be it. The buttons are slightly tough to press, but the layout and form factor resonate with what I prefer in a G-Shock. Despite having different module versions (GLX, G, and DW), I find that these models offe
Post a Comment
Read more

Eton Microlink FR160 Radio -- Sticky Residue

Eton Microlink FR160 Handcrank Radio Review I bought an Eton Microlink FR160 handcrank radio for my emergency kit a few years ago, and it’s been great overall. However, there’s one significant issue I've encountered. Sticky Residue Problem Over time, a sticky residue developed on the radio's external surface, which was driving me nuts. At first, I thought there was something wrong with the device. Solution Fortunately, I researched the problem online and discovered that Eton radios are coated with a substance designed to make them easier to grip. Unfortunately, this coating degrades over time and turns into a sticky mess. To resolve the issue, I used isopropyl alcohol and cotton balls to clean most of the gunk. While some paint may have been lost in the process, at least the radio is no longer sticky.
6 comments
Read more