Seiko Orange Monster Gen 1 Review: Worth it in 2023?

I've been hesitating on whether or not to post a review of this particular piece. Even though it is a phenomenal watch beloved by many die hard fans, it is a piece that is in no way reflective of the state of modern Seiko, nor is it a piece that is reasonably accessible for those who want to enjoy it.

I have greatly admired this model for several years, but never expected to actually obtain one for at a reasonable price. I was lucky to find one in great used condition for close to its original retail price. The owner bought the watch new in 2012 (the year they were discontinued) and found that it simply didn't suit them. Fast forward to 2023, and they typically sell for twice (even three times) as much as they once did. That's not even considering the other iterations or limited models...

So would I recommend an original monster in 2023? Does it hold up in comparisson to newer models in similar price ranges. Short answer is yes, but the caviata are timing, price, and a little bit of luck. Let me explain:

Pros:

• Bezel: I haven't held a huge variety of dive watches in my time, but of all the ones that I have tested this is easily the BEST bezel action that I've experienced. The iconic 'gun barrel' design in both the case and bezel helps it to feel grippy, easy to turn, and easy to align. Its a great combo of tactile and buttery smooth. Overall, an amazing fidget toy with a jarring design fit for the monster in all of us!

• Lume: LUUUUUUUUUUME FOR DAYYYYYYS! 👽

• Wearability: This is a surprisingly comfortable watch on my 7.5" wrist, with reduced weight from the rubber strap. Even though the dimensions sound large (42mm diameter, 12mm thick) the watch wears very compact. Having the smaller dial diameter and crown at 4:00 really helps to slim this the height down. Considering that many modern divers are gigantic in comparrison, I would highly recommend even for medium and smaller wrists.

• Design: More than specs and practicality, I am drawn to watches that have a destinct personality, and this watch has character in abundance! The gun barrel case, jarring steel bezel, tooth indices packed with lume, Baby Tuna minute markers & case shroud, Samurai "spaceahip" hands, etc. It almost feels like a compilation album of Seiko greatest hits, with no thought put into sequencing. This is the sexiest ugly watch ever made, and there is nothing else like it.

• Literal strap monster: put it on a bracelet, put it on a rubber strap, put it on a nato, put it on a perlon, I've even seen these on brown leather and look tremendous. You can even match all sorts of different colours. When a watch is already as far out there with its design as this one, you just gotta lean all in with the quirkiness, and you will have a blast doing so.

• Movement: I get now why they call the 7s26 movment a "work horse". This thing sat in a bag for almost 10 years untouched, and it still ticks away like new. My only issue is that not having hacking or handwinding on a day/date watch means that it does take a fair amount of time to set.

Cons:

• Price and availability: As mentioned, these consistently trade at 2-3x the original retail price. That's not even considering all of the various other discontinued generations and limited editions. I understand inflation and scarcity, but it doesn't help that the modern 4th gen monsters are lacking a lot of what made previous models special (subdued design elements, downgraded movement from 3rd gen, and are more frequent victims of modern Seiko QC).

• Stock rubber strap: most of you will opt to switch out seiko bands anyways, so this is only a minor complaint. It is still important to note that rubber can become stiff and brittle if it sits, causing it to break apart. This happened to the original seiko strap when I got it. Since it sat untouched for almost a decade, sections of the strap crumbled apart when I began wearing it. Just something to consider if you want an older model in pristine condition. Also note that this model was not typically sold on the metal bracelet in North America.

Overall: This is without a doubt my favourite watch in my collection to date. I have very few complaints about the piece itself, it is perfect for me. Almost all of my complaints are geared towards Seiko as a brand. They have a nasty habit of discontinuing their popular sports watches, slapping the Prospex logo on the dial, implementing other cost cutting measures like lesser movements, and then re-releasing at a price that costs hundreds more than the original. Seiko is driving their fans away by selling inferior products at hugrly inflated prices, and forcing the price of older models to skyrocket on the grey market. This is an evil practice that probably makes them rich, at the cost of their loyal consumers.

Don't get me wrong, the latest Monster models are still great looking/functioning timepieces, don't let my negativity discourage you. If you prefer the older ones, however, I just can't say that I recommend for you to track them down for yourself and spend more than you need to. If you really admire these pieces and are ready for the hunt, then I bid you the best of luck on your journey.