In a nutshell, most probably but first, a little bit of history. Introduced sometime before 2010, the Seiko Presage SARX017 is a JDM (Japan Domestic Market) model which was discontinued during the first quarter of 2017. Consequently, there are only two popular ways for you to get one today.
First of all, one can look for a used SARX017 or search for a NOS (new old stock) unit. A quick search at the time of writing shows that there are several units on sale from RM1,600-2,150.
The case has a diameter of 40 mm (43.4 mm, including the crown) and a lug width of 20 mm. Meanwhile, lug to lug measurements are 47.5 mm and the watch itself weighs 83 g including the strap.
The movement within is Seiko's in-house automatic 6R15C calibre. Beating at 21,600 vph, Seiko claims an impressive power reserve figure of 50 hours thanks to the Spron 510 mainspring.
The 6R15C calibre features hacking, hand-winding capabilities and a quickset date function. For those not too familiar with hacking, it basically means that the seconds hand stops when the crown is pulled. This, in turn, allows for a more accurate setting of the time.
What about the looks?
As I spend more time studying the Seiko Presage SARX017, it becomes apparent that this watch has both sporty and dressy undertones to its overall design. To the optimist, this sets a nice balance in terms of aesthetics while the pessimist might take it that Seiko did not have a clear direction when designing this timepiece.
How's the lume? What about legibility?
At the base of each hour marker, you'll find tiny lume pips with a slightly different shape for the ones at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock point. Now, the hands are a bit of a downer for me. I've always been a fan of simple, dauphine-shaped hands and even sportier designs but the hands on the SARX017 are, well, unique, to put it kindly.
The hour hand gets a shorter, thicker lume application (Seiko's LumiBrite) while the minute hand receives a thinner, longer design.
There has to be at least ONE flaw, right?
Yes, and it's quite a big one - the quality of the strap. Putting it on, I can tell that this is one area where Seiko had definitely cut a corner. The faux, alligator pattern borders on tacky and the strap has little to no padding. Also, the initial shine of the leather is showing signs of fading even though this watch barely gets wrist time. Obviously, Seiko still has a lot to learn in terms of putting out quality straps.
In conclusion, the Seiko Presage SARX017 is a strong answer to the popular "If you could only have one watch... " question. It manages to be both casual and business-like in appearance by marrying a clean, uncomplicated design with modest proportions. Besides, the movement is a renowned workhorse so that should mean reliable performance and ease of servicing.
First Published on: Centre Seconds http://centreseconds.com/review-seiko-presage-sarx017/
