Watches under microscope Video, vol. 12 Seiko 5 SNK543

Today we take a closer look at the Seiko 5 SNK543

This watch catches the eye at first glance with its playful green dial, which is dotted with Seika 5 logos. These logos only stand out in certain lighting conditions. The movement is the most basic piece from Seiko with no hacking or manual winding options. The case is simple and really small by modern standards, and in the position of the glass we find the classic Hardlex, which, however, has not resisted scratches. The case is simple and quite tall, which is the toll of the transparent caseback. This watch sold for literally a few dollars a few years ago and managed to welcome many a collector into the world of mechanical watchmaking. Well, here's what we find under the microscope.

The hands and dial printing are perfectly fine for me, as is the printing of the date wheel. Unfortunately, the playful dial itself is full of scratches, dust, and even remnants of "something" by the logo itself. The mess on the dial, however, is a classic feature of even much more expensive Seiko watches. The indices are surprisingly complex in shape, however the application of the lume layer is truly awful. The cut of the indices is also far from regular.

Overall, and considering the price, I find the details still passable, however the execution of the indices and the utter mess on the dial is the worst I've seen so far.

As always, excuse the quality of the shots, which were taken with a kid's microscope. At the same time, keep in mind that due to the lighting and extreme magnification, even those flaws that are otherwise hidden to the observer's eye will stand out.

Video can be found here: https://youtu.be/sd9z1fIXuQA?si=0pj_aZUAL9pCV3FR

Reply
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Superb, so interesting to see that level of detail, I sometimes become a little blind to the finer details of a watch, because I look at so many, this video reminds me to really observe. Thanks for sharing 📹👍

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Thank you for continuing to make these! Love the macro lens details! Very insightful about the levels of finishing in our watches.

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Thanks @nooski, highlight of my WC week, ney month. Until the next one.

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Marc27

Superb, so interesting to see that level of detail, I sometimes become a little blind to the finer details of a watch, because I look at so many, this video reminds me to really observe. Thanks for sharing 📹👍

I am glad you like it :-)

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Beanna

Thank you for continuing to make these! Love the macro lens details! Very insightful about the levels of finishing in our watches.

Unfortunately, I don't have much time for those videos, and I am also short on watches to film already. I hope one day I can bring some big guys for the game— Rolex and Grand Seiko. I had GS Diver in my hands, and the bezel action, bracelet, and especially the clasp all feel pretty terrible, so I hope at least the details will be good.

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DrewP94

Thanks @nooski, highlight of my WC week, ney month. Until the next one.

:-) I have San Martin SN0116, their original design GMT watch next on my list and I can tell you it's a completely different story.

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nooski

:-) I have San Martin SN0116, their original design GMT watch next on my list and I can tell you it's a completely different story.

San Martin vs GMT Master II video soon? 😂

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Beanna

San Martin vs GMT Master II video soon? 😂

I would love to, but there is one Datejust around, I just have to ask 😁

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Top notch and stunning as always, my friend. Image

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hakki501

Top notch and stunning as always, my friend. Image

I am glad you like it 😁