Is the SPRD99 better than a SARB033? Seiko SRPD99 Review

You know how I recently claimed that the SARB033 successor was my preference over the OG? Don’t get me wrong, I still believe the SRPD99 has an overall better wearing experience. I much prefer the fit and comfort of the SRPD99 and the presage bracelet. The case is 10x more accommodating and hugs my wrists better than a SARB033. But, I feel like this is one of those situations where theory somehow trumps practice. Based on my own preferences, I should choose the SPRD99 over the SARB033, it’s more comfortable. But, somehow, the SRPD99 feels like it’s lacking something. Compared to the SARB033, it doesn’t feel as “JDM”. Is it because the “legendary” status the SARB033 possess within the watch community?

The SRPD99 Origin Story

In 2018, Seiko decided to discontinue a variety of older “JDM” Seiko’s that we all know and love. Part of the discontinuation, was the SARB series of 033, 035, and 017 Alpinist. The popular SKX line up 007, 009 and 013 also saw their production ceased. The mass discontinuations in 2018 marked Seiko’s transition in their business model.

The result of this was a drastic increase in RRP’s, and releasing watches strictly within certain “series”. For instance, Seiko 5, Seiko Prospex, Seiko Presage, you know the drill. Personally, it felt like Seiko transitioned from an enthusiast watchmaker to a revenue-focused business. And I’m sure most of you would agree the Seiko of today isn’t what it used to be.

Anyhow, part of this transition saw the SPRD99 being introduced into the Presage line up in 2019. Now it isn’t mentioned explicitly, but the SRPD99 was Seiko’s replacement for the SARB033. I mean just look at them, pretty similar, but equally different and unique. Honestly, it’s hard for me to say one is better than the other. I mean accessibility is one thing, the SARB033 is discontinued but you can find them used. The SRPD99 is more affordable and easier to purchase. It’s got advantages over the SARB033, and in other areas it’s lacking a little.

Seiko SRPD99 Dimensions

Case & Bezel

The SPRD99 adopts a relatively simple polished case that’s consistent throughout the entire watch. From the bezel, to the lugs and the case side, it’s all the same exact finish. I feel like this is where Seiko done a little cost cutting measure on the SRPD99. There’s no chamfered edges or any other types of finishing. From all angles, it gives off the same exact polished look. The case finishing is quite plain and it’s not a strength of the SARB033 successor.

That being said, I am a huge fan of the case shape. The mid case is relatively flat, and the teardrop lugs angles down dramatically to hug my skinny wrists. With the thinness being only 11mm, it’s a sleek and slender piece that will easily slide under a cuff. Turning the SPRD99 around, the display caseback is a nice touch to showcase the slightly decorated 4R35 – i.e., gold Seiko rotor. Usually display casebacks add unnecessary height, but this one here is done well.

It’s good to see a signed Seiko crown, which is obviously non-screw down given the Presage nature. The crown is nicely sized and extremely easy to grip and operate. Good to see the ol’ Seiko robustness is still kicking.

Dial & Hands

The SRPD99 redeems itself in the dial aesthetic department; I mean it is a Presage after all. The glossy black dial under the sapphire crystal is simplicity at it’s finest. You can clearly see your reflection on the dial if you look at it closely. That’s how good the glossy black dial is. Unlike the SARB033, there are no lume on the rectangular indices. But the surface is finished with a sandy-texture to give it that “snowflake” consistency.

Speaking of “snowflake”, the entire dial is covered in the same texture. Though you won’t be able to tell under natural lighting. It’s only when you have it under bright lights you’ll see the snowflake dial. I’m not a huge fan of a black dial having a “snowflake” finish, but I suppose it’s passable given it’s hidden nature. I didn’t even realize the SRPD99 had a snowflake dial until it was under my studio lights.

The minute and hour hand are painted white that is reminiscent of the shape of leaves; seconds hand is a simple needle. It’s an extremely dressy handset but no surprises here, it’s a Presage after all. I actually prefer the dial on the SPRD99 when compared to the SARB033. It’s a tiny bit cleaner, and the glossy black dial is just gorgeous to look at.

Bracelet

A huge complaint for the SARB033 for me has always been the bracelet. It’s not particularly outstanding, and I was never able to find a good fit. With the SPRD99, even with a lack of micro adjustments, it works well on my skinny 6 inch wrists. It’s the classic Presage bracelet with a butterfly deployant clasp which I’m a fan of. The weight is also extremely manageable with thin articulating links. And yes, both the end and individual links are solid.

I would’ve liked to see some form on micr-adjustment on the SPRD99 bracelet. But as is the fit is perfectly fine. Yes it is pins and collars, but honestly it’s not complicated at all to resize these yourself at home. Once you get the hang of them, it only takes a few minutes to do the whole bracelet.

Comfort & Wearability

In terms of comfort, the SPRD99 beats the SARB033 by miles, or kilometers. Slimmer case, better weight distribution, lack of top-heaviness, and a more comfortable bracelet equates to a clear winner – the SPRD99. However, I will say that the watch overall feels less “premium” compared to the SARB033, which may contribute to the comfort. I’ll let you decide whether that’s a pro or a con.

As for wearability and versatility, the SPRD99 is an everyday watch that is more on the dressy side. I’d argue it’s on the same level of “dressiness” as the SARB033, but that’s until you catch a glimpse of the snowflake dial. It is a strap monster and works best on a leather strap. I would hesitate putting the SPRD99 on a nato strap, but hey, whatever floats your boat.

Is the SPRD99 for you? Or buy a used SARB033?

It’s the question we’re all going to ask. “Should I get the SRPD99 because it’s more affordable easier to access?” or “Should I get a SARB033 at a premium?”. It’s not a straightforward question to answer, and a lot of it comes down to preference.

You want a snowflake dial? Then SPRD99.

Wanting a “blast from the past” JDM Seiko with a legendary status? SARB033.

Prefer the comfort and wearability of the SRPD99? Or the more “beefy” SARB033?

Built quality and finishing, the SARB033 takes the cake. Interesting dial and comfort, the SPRD99 wins. Ultimately, it’s up to you and your preferences in watches. Always go with what you prioritize, and less about what others think.

Seiko SRPD99: Closing Thoughts

Aesthetics: Rich Japanese watchmaking DNA alongside the glossy snowflake dial makes the SPRD99 a “one of a kind” against other similar watches. At the same time it’s also an extremely simple, black dial daily.

Comfort: At 11mm thin and much lighter than the SARB033, the SRPD99 wears perfectly on my 6 inch wrists. The bracelet, even without micro-adjustments, is very comfortable.

Price: You can find the SPRD99 via the grey market for USD$300 – 400, which is much more compelling than the UD$700+ the SARB033 commands nowadays on the used market. In my opinion, both are equally worth it and comes down to preference.

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