An Incredible Value for an Everyday Work Watch
For fans of the Seiko SKX, the automatic Freediver is an exceptionally compelling choice. At its current price point, you get a classically styled timepiece featuring a remarkably quiet and smooth movement, a high-quality crystal, and a level of finishing that rivals Swiss models costing several times as much. Its accuracy is also perfectly acceptable: when fully wound, it runs about 15 to 20 seconds fast per day.
The dial is highly legible. Provided the watch has been exposed to light throughout the day, you can expect to still be able to read it in the dark until 3 or 4 a.m.
The bracelet, while not exceptional, is far superior to what you might expect on a timepiece priced under two hundred francs.
As for the details that could be problematic:
The power reserve: From my observations, it only lasts around twenty hours. If the watch isn't worn during this time, it requires manual winding; otherwise, its timekeeping becomes erratic.
The proportions: They are quite unusual. The case is relatively small—to the point that I initially thought I had accidentally ordered the women's version—but the thickness is substantial (12 to 13 mm). It's not a major issue if, like me, you have a larger wrist, but it is quite surprising when taking the watch out of its box (which, by the way, is very nice).
The luminescent marker: The pip on the bezel, used for the countdown, is very exposed. Since this is an everyday work watch, I suspect I will damage it long before I manage to scratch the crystal.
For someone looking to buy a daily work watch and who insists on an automatic movement, the Freediver is a remarkable choice due to its build quality and daily performance.
As a side note: an automatic version of the pilot watch, featuring a date display like the quartz model, would be highly appreciated.
