Great watch! My Falcon III is in regular rotation in my collection - so comfortable to wear. Your accuracy is really good as well. Mine ended up settling to about 8 spd. Cheers!

Agreed. The 027 is definitely striking with the monochrome silver & black colorway. That might have been my choice if the 005 hadn't been available. No matter which version one chooses, they're all great watches, and the 9F is an amazing movement. Cheers!

Well done review! I'm sorry to hear that you wouldn't recommend the 027. I was considering both the 027 and 029 (and was undecided - both colorways have their merits). However, the AD had the previous design 005 in stock, so that made the decision for me.

I happen to like the 3o'clock date & crown, but I know I'd get used to the 4 o'clock date/crown on the new model (s). As you said, it's very much a (Grand) Seiko design characteristic. I do prefer the new handset though, as it bridges the dress/tool gap a bit better than the dressier style on my 005.

I believe the 027/029 gets a little closer to the tool aesthetic than the 003/005. In fact, one of the things I've realized since owning my 005 (which I love) is that it hasn't quite scratched the tool watch itch in the way that, say, an Explorer II would. It's just a bit too beautiful and shiny for that 🙂.

Great collection! I'd have to say the Presage GMT caught my eye first, but the red Orient Kamasu is a close second.

As far as recommendations for your next one - I agree with other posters that a Hamilton Khaki Field (whichever version/color speaks to you the most) would be a great addition, or maybe save up a bit more for a Sinn 556i/a. Thanks for sharing!

Beautiful Grand Seiko GMT (probably my favorite out of all their GMT models), and the scenery's not too bad either! Thanks for sharing!

I selected 'depends' - for a new or pressure tested diver, I'd say bracelet as it could potentially see some water/swimming. For a vintage diver (or any vintage watch, really), a well chosen leather strap can look great, and since the watch wouldn't (or shouldn't) be immersed, water damage to the leather shouldn't be an issue. YMMV, of course.

Happy birthday, and a great Grand Seiko to celebrate it with! Cheers!