The everyday chrono.
I don't like to hear about GADA watches, because this acronym implies that I can do anything anywhere, and we all know that this is not true. GADA is just a fancy made up word for describing a watch that is suitable for a wide range of activities that falls into the comfort zone of its wearer.
An everyday watch in other words, and I'll be damned if the SNA411 isn't something very much like this (for me).
Firstly, there is the issue of legibility, or lack of issue to be more precise. Unlike a lot of other chronographs, the Flightmaster is able to show the time at a glance, despite having one of the busiest (and smallest) dial. Seiko really managed to pull it through here.
Next is the WR, which at 200m is respectable for any watch and quite remarkable for a chrono. It's not an ISO compliant diver's, but it should not have any problem with activities involving water deeper than the typical kitchen's sink.
Obviously a chronograph has to have sub-dials, and the SNA411 doesn't disappoint because its third sub-dial is not the useless 24Hr indicator found on most modern quartz and meca-quartz chronographs, but instead we have a very useful dual purpose sub-dial that can be used either for setting an alarm, or for tracking a second time zone - like a GMT.
And for those of us who count photography among their "GADA" activities, there is the single dome Hardlex crystal which is very good at making distortions and reflections.
All this come in a very nice and tight package which is very wearable on smaller wrists. Really, the only negatives for me are the difficulties to find and fit 21mm straps due to the short lugs with the odd span, and the not really spectacular finish of the case.
I'm a big fan of watches that are interesting because they are either unique, have interesting features, well designed or simply offer a great value for their price.
Generally not a fan of very busy dials / lots of little white lettering and indices - but this one pulls it all off rather nicely. Guess the three layer buildup really helps in that respect, as well as the judicious use of yellow. Great strap choice as well (an area I find difficult :)
Great photos and write up! I don’t agree with the legibility point though. I can’t look at this thing because it gives me stress. I’m unusually OCD about this though.
As an SNA414 owner I agree with everything 100% plus gold!
As an SNA414 owner I agree with everything 100% plus gold!
This is the only two tone gold watch that I've seen so far which doesn't give "old man retirement party gift" vibes.
To be fair, the stock bracelet is fully gold. But because I picked it up pre-owned without any extra links it has had a few different straps... Leather rally strap seems to be the best fit. Is the only gold watch I own - at least until I retire I guess.