Rediscovering Admiration
I've had this wristwatch since 2017 - one of the first few that drew me deeper into the hobby. Battery changed a few times, and even had the movement replaced once due to battery leakage last year. Put up for sale at deep discounts and it still remains in my collection.
Inevitably, it's battery will need replacing every few years, and the rose gold plating will come off with time. I wanted solar/automatic and I wanted real rose gold. And I wanted 34-37mm case diameter with a sapphire crystal. I was prepared to shell out a few thousands even if a custom rose gold case, hands and indices could be crafted. But I've come to realise that it's hard to source talent and commitment for this kind of stuff - professional modders are too Seiko specialized and less generalists where I live. And the goldsmiths I've asked, though established in their trade, can't do watch cases for sub 42mm diameter.
Oh well, guess it means I'll continue to enjoy this piece and wear it with the love it deserves. I don't complain alongside everyone else about the brand - Stührling has done a marvelous job on this piece for a very fair price. I think, if anything, this watch is a good replacement for the SRPB46, which doubtless is the more popular of the two.
I like wearing this piece definitely. Battery change and possible battery leakage damage is a turn-off definitely. 42mm case size and gold plating that slowly wears of (see the minute hand already) is no plus point, definitely. But I think, I've looked after this handsome piece for 7 years and it looks 80% pristine. And that's reason enough for my continued love, at least until a buyer hits me up with an offer someday.
A wristwatch is an instrument of utility, a piece of jewelry, an accessory of elegance, a gadget of tireless endurance and an engrossing hobby all in one.
I don't reckon you'll ever get your money back or close to it. Watches, like cars, are a depreciating asset.