Seiko SARB035 Review: Still Worth it in 2024?

One does not simply go through their watch journey without ever coming across the legendary Seiko SARB035 or SARB033, period. Just like many of you, the Seiko SARB line up was first introduced to me by TGV back in 2016. Back then, I was still deeply entrenched in Seiko divers which were way too big for me. I didn’t pay much attention to dressier, more casual watches. Then I decided to purchase the Seiko SARB033 as a gift for my dad. I then realize how comfortable it was. I distinctively remember hiding the SARB033 in my drawer and deciding to keep it for myself. My dad’s gift was replaced with a Bluemo instead.

Throughout the years, I bought, sold, and re-bought my fair share of Seiko SARB035’s – probably have owned up to 10 of these JDM classics. Ever since they’ve been discontinued in 2018, there’s been a decent price increase for the SARB035’s and 033’s in the grey market, almost double from their initial RRP of USD$300+ almost 10 years ago. Not to mention, the surge of microbrands with similar everyday-style watches that I’m sure the SARB played a role in inspiring.

So, with all that in mind, is it worth paying the discontinue-premium for the SARB035?

Seiko SARB035: What’s the History?

The origin of the SARB, a JDM line up of watches made for the Japanese domestic market was first introduced in June of 2006. There were three references, the 001, 003, and 003, which sports the workhorse 6R15 movement that we all know and love (kinda) today. Within just a few months, Seiko then released the mountaineering line up of SARB’s, which included the now SARB017 and it’s cult-like following.

Fast forward exactly two years from day dot, Seiko released the SARB033 and SARB035 in June of 2008. You best believe within two years, Seiko has dished out almost 30 different references of the SARB line up. Of the 30 odd references, there were 7 entirely unique designs. One does not have to ponder very hard as to why the SARB line up is so legendary.

Of course, it all went to shit when Seiko decided to discontinue the line up in 2018, which caused the SARB035 to trend upwards of $900 – $1000 on the grey market. If this was 10 years ago, with a price of USD$300, there is virtually 0 competition, even in today’s over-saturated market. However, at almost a grand in today’s market, the SARB035 as a value proposition, is likely a relic of the past.

Case & Bezel:

The Seiko SARB035 was the first time I’ve ever experienced a sub-40mm case coming from 43mm Seiko Monsters and 44mm PADI turtles. Ever since the 035, I’ve been converted to only wearing “smaller” watches, and this whole website is a testament to that philosophy. The SARB035 sports a delicate, yet masculine case which is why it’s one of the best everyday watches. The curves that are present where the top meets the sides, the lugs that hugs your wrists perfectly, and the display caseback highlighting the ever-ticking 6R15. The only real downside here is the polished bezel, which means it’s going to attract scratch marks more easily than others.

The crown on the SARB035 signed with the classic Seiko S, is easy to grip and operate. Hand winding the 6R15 movement feels buttery smooth, and the noise produced from the gears is a classic feature of the 6R15.

I’ve had a chance to experience a couple of Grand Seiko’s and I’ve got to say the SARB035 doesn’t lag far behind. It’s no wonder why they call this the “Baby Grand Seiko”. The case finishing is undeniably JDM Seiko, which somehow, is always better than international releases. I believe Seiko simply puts more effort and love for their domestic audiences.

Dial & Hands

The creamy white dial that is left unaccompanied other than an applied Seiko logo and the text “Automatic 23 Jewels” is my favorite element of the SARB035. Let’s talk about how clean the cream color is when it’s surrounded by all stainless steel materials. In some lighting, it seems cream, and in others, it’s cream with a tinge of white. Many mistake it for a white dial watch, but it’s more of a cream/ivory dial that almost never appears white. The cream color is made even more clear when you realize date window is white, which is annoying. If only they could have color-matched it!

The dauphine hands and needle hand set on the SARB035 is another one of the features that make the SARB033 the 033. The handset aligns with the simple, almost-dressy everyday watch aesthetic that the 035 exudes. Again, it’s that bit of utilitarian-elegance that they Japanese are just so good at reflecting on their watches. The SARB035 is no doubt an ideal representation of the Japanese watchmaking DNA.

Bracelet

Now, the bracelet is probably my biggest gripe on the SARB035. It’s not to say that the OEM bracelet is bad, I’ve just never been able to find a good fit with the lack of half links and only having 2 micro-adjustment holes. I’m sure I’m not the only one in the watch community who struggled with making the 035 bracelet fit. It was always either too tight, or too loose, and don’t get me started on wrist swelling. My SARB035 spent a lot of time off the OEM bracelet, and on various kinds of leather straps.

At least that was until I decided to take the plunge and purchase an Uncle Seiko for just under USD$100. The Uncle Seiko still only had 2 micro-adjustment holes. But, the individual links took up very little space which meant a perfect fit was relatively easy to find. Ever since it’s been on the Uncle Seiko, it’s made the SARB035 a daily grab and go that’s difficult to pass up.

Comfort & Wearability

For those with 6 inch wrists, there’s not much to say about the comfort and wearability of the Seiko SARB035. The downward angling lugs combined with it’s slimness at 11.5mm makes the 035 a small wrist’s dream. By no means is it a light piece, it’s got heft that can sometimes make it top heavy. For those with skinny 6 inch wrists like myself, it moves around quite a bit if you don’t have the correct fit. That was a big reason why I never really got to wearing it comfortably until I got the president bracelet from Uncle Seiko.

Other than the fitting struggle with the OEM bracelet, and the relative top-heaviness. The Seiko SARB035 is a great everyday watch that used to be a no-brainer at 300-odd dollars. At almost double the price nowadays, it’s still a great choice for those looking for a piece with brand heritage, and history. Sure microbrands might provide better value, but I guarantee that they won’t give you the vibes the 035 exudes.

Seiko SARB035: Closing Thoughts

Aesthetics: It’s not called the “Baby Grand Seiko” for no reason, Japanese watch-making DNA through and through.

Comfort: Might be a little top heavy but that’s basically the only drawback in terms of comfort. The SARB035 is a perfect everyday wear.

Price: At UD$350, it’s a no brainer. At double the price $700, to be honest, it’s also a no brainer considering it’s status, which was brought on by just how good it is.

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