Tale of Two Tunas: Comparing the Seiko SBBN017 and SBBN033

 

Comments

[Angelo]

I agree with you----even based on the video clip, the 33 rates an edge over the 17. I like the lume markers, which appear slightly smaller, better. I like the polished case SLIGHTLY better than the sandblast case----though truth be told, I can probably go either way on that----might depend on mood. Bottom line is that both of them are icons---and I also have to say, they look good on the rubber straps but if anything, the 33 looks better on the strap. I like the contrast of the polished stainless against the black rubber better than the matte finish against the black rubber----but again, whisker close as both are nice. I hate to throw a wrench in your potential plan, but something tells me that for now, you should hold onto both of them and not part with the 17 just yet. Sometimes, when you have a top performer----it makes sense to have a close variation of it as well. I don't think two variations of the Tuna is too much of a good thing. You might go back and forth on which one you like better as time moves on----and if anything, you can sell later and I doubt these things are going to lose much value.

[Angelo]

One other thing: I remember when you received your first Tuna----and I remember being mightily impressed with the photos you posted. It was a grail with no apologies. Over time, as you've moved onto other watches, other styles, other makes----the initial impact of the Tuna was diminished. But this video seems to be a rejuvenation of sorts----the twists Seiko put into the new model are enough to rekindle the flame for this series for you.

[herculodge]

Angelo, your description is spot on. I'm in full agreement. Also, I'm keeping both of these Tuna icons. I'm back to the Tuna. I don't know how this will bode for my other watches, but I'm not worried about it. Also, I feel no inclination to buy any watches. The Tunas keep me busy.

[Tom Welch]

New again Sangean pocket radio http://www.sangean.com/products/product.asp?mid=183&cid=

[herculodge]

With a rechargeable battery. I might have to wish list that one. Thanks, Tom.

[Ulysses]

I think the 033 is superior for the following reasons. One - black day and date wheels, such a common complaint for watch lovers where these things don't coordinate with the dial and as a result stick out like a sore thumb. Two, the lume markings are smaller, making the dial look larger. Three, the handset is simpler and clearer, resembling those of a Breitling Superocean Heritage. The counter-weights on each hand are also blacked-out so they are less visually distracting.

[herculodge]

Ulysses, I'm in full agreement. If I had to have only one, I'd easily keep the 033. I'm keeping both as they seem to inoculate me from buying other watches. I'm in need of a buying hiatus.

[Lee_K]

The great thing about the Tuna series is that they look like nothing else in the watch market. Seiko blazed their own stylistic trail with these and you know one instantly when you see it on someone's wrist. I like just about everything new about the 033 -- the updated hands, the improved lume, the blacked out date window, the sharper face -- and yet the one thing that gives me pause is the polished shroud. I'd have to see one in person before passing final judgement, but in photos it adds a chromey vibe that I'm not sure works with what is very much a tool watch.

Still, I find this watch intriguing for a number of reasons and it is something to seriously consider for 2016. It may indeed be my Exit Watch.