Japanese watch manufacturer Seiko has garnered a reputation for producing high-quality timepieces that return excellent value for what you pay, making the brand a go-to choice for those looking for an affordable, accurate, no-frills watch that is reliable enough to wear every day. One popular model that exemplifies these characteristics is the Seiko SNXS79K. As part of the Seiko 5 line, it carries the same 5 key attributes that all watches in the collection possess: water resistance, automatic movement, a day-date display, a durable case, and a recessed crown. And since it’s available for under $150, it’s become a favorite among those looking for their first automatic watch or those simply looking for a reliable everyday beater watch that won’t break the bank.
In this review, we’ll be talking about the Seiko SNXS79K’s design, features, movement, price, and its pros and cons to help you decide if it deserves a place on your wrist.
Seiko SNXS79K Design
The Seiko SNXS79K features a polished 37mm stainless steel case with a recessed crown, polished steel bezel, and a screw-down display case back, with a lug width of 19mm, and a case thickness of 13mm. It’s a simple, elegant, and classic design, with a subtle chamfer between the top surface and the flanks narrowing down to the lug tips, giving the watch a sleek and streamlined appearance.
The offset crown positioned at 4 o’clock is a classic Seiko design aesthetic, but it also has the benefit of not digging into your wrist when wearing it. The recessed crown allows it to sit almost completely flush against the case, which adds to its clean look. Some comparisons have been made between the SNXS79K and the Rolex Datejust, despite the vast difference in price.
Adding some life to the watch is a dial that features an attractive ”dark rhodium” / dark grey analog dial with a sunburst finish that reflects playfully against the light. The applied rectangular hour markers and hands are framed by polished metal, making them highly legible. At 3 o’clock, you’ll see the day and date aperture, which is a signature feature of the Seiko 5 collection. Text on the dial is kept to a minimum to enhance legibility further and to retain the watch’s clean aesthetic. Protecting the dial is Seiko’s proprietary Hardlex crystal. This hardened mineral crystal is much more durable and scratch-resistant than regular mineral glass but lacks the scratch resistance of sapphire crystal, which is found on more expensive watches.
Seiko SNXS79K Features
Here are some noteworthy features of the Seiko SNXS79K.
Dial
On the applied hour marker indices and steel hands, you’ll find Seiko’s LumiBrite, which is Seiko’s new luminous material that is said to be brighter and longer lasting than conventional luminous paints. This helps you tell the time even when no light is available.
Movement
The SNXS79K is equipped with the automatic mechanical Seiko caliber 7S26 that beats with a frequency of 21600 BPH and has 21 jewels. It has a power reserve of 41 hours, meaning the watch will continue to operate for up to 41 hours even after you remove it or place it back in storage.
Case
The Seiko SNXS79K‘s case is waterproof for up to 30 meters. While not adequate for scuba diving, its 30m water resistance should withstand splashes and light precipitation. However, since its crown doesn’t screw down, swimming with the watch isn’t recommended. Seiko usually understates its cases’ water resistance, so even if you forget to remove it when going for a swim, the watch should be fine, so long as you aren’t scuba diving or doing laps.
Seiko SNXS79K Performance
First released in 1996, the Seiko caliber 7S26 is one of Seiko’s most common automatic movements, found in many Seiko watches and divers and most of the Seiko 5 line. It’s a true workhorse and is highly regarded as one of Seiko’s most reliable movements. The Seiko 7S26 movement has powered the watches of military service members, deep-sea divers, and emergency responders for almost 30 years, which is all the testament you need regarding its durability and reliability. It’s also easy to repair and service, with parts widely available worldwide.
Compared to more high-end movements, however, it does have its disadvantages. It’s not a hacking or hand-winding movement, which means that you can’t manually wind the watch to power the movement, and the second hand continues to tick even while you’re setting the time. Nevertheless, its robustness, affordability, and easy serviceability are advantages that far outweigh its limitations. The caliber 7S26 movement is rated with an accuracy of -20 to +40 seconds per day, which is about average compared to other movements in its category.
To set the day and date on the 7S26, pull the crown out to position 1, one click away from the case. Rotate the crown forward (clockwise) to change the date, and rotate the crown backward (counter-clockwise) to change the day. Once the day and date are set, push the crown back into position 0 (nearest to the case) to complete the process.
Seiko SNXS79K Price
Seiko is known for manufacturing quality timepieces at affordable price points, and the SNXS79K is no different. Available at just under $150, the SNXS79K finds itself alongside quartz men’s watches from various brands such as Timex, MVMT, Swatch, Fossil, and Casio. But unlike the oftentimes plastic construction and cheaper quartz movements of other affordable watches, the SNXS79K’s use of stainless steel and its automatic movement gives it a significant advantage over offerings at a similar price. Seiko is also one of the world’s most renowned and respected watch brands, which significantly improves its resale value if you decide to sell it in the future, but also comes with the satisfaction of ownership that you’re wearing a watch with a celebrated heritage should you choose to keep it in your collection.
Seiko SNXS79K Pros and Cons
Since the Seiko SNXS79K is available at such an affordable price, it does come with certain compromises. As mentioned earlier, its movement lacks the hacking and hand-winding functionalities of higher-end mechanical movements. It also doesn’t excel in terms of accuracy or power reserve. While durable, the SNXS79K’s stainless steel bracelet can rattle when you shake it since it uses hollow end links instead of solid end links used by more expensive watches. Also, its relatively low water resistance means that the watch shouldn’t be used for swimming.
On the plus side, the Seiko SNXS79K is exceptionally well made, and you can appreciate the small details when you look closely at how well the dial was constructed. Its automatic movement, while less accurate than a quartz movement, allows you to power the watch simply from the movement of your wrist, instead of constantly having to replace batteries. The movement is also viewable via the see-through display case back, a feature found on luxury watches. The inclusion of a stainless-steel bracelet with a fold-over clasp as opposed to a cheaper NATO or leather band also adds to the SNXS79K’s outstanding value for money.
Conclusion
With its reliable mechanical movement, versatile design aesthetic, affordable price, and excellent build quality, there’s no wonder that the Seiko SNXS79K finds itself on the wrist of those looking for a great everyday wristwatch that looks right at home, whether as a casual everyday beater or worn as a dress watch for special occasions.
FAQs
What is the band made of?
The Seiko SNXS79’s bracelet is made from stainless steel and features a satin finish.
What is the weight of the watch?
The Seiko SNXS79K is exceptionally light, weighing only 3.04 oz, or 86 grams.
What are the advantages of a solar watch?
Solar-powered watches have several advantages, such as eliminating the need for regular battery replacements or charging through external power sources and reducing environmental impact by minimizing the disposal of batteries.
What is the difference between the Seiko SNXS79K and the Seiko SNXS79K1?
The Seiko SNXS79K and the Seiko SNXS79K1 both refer to the same model. Seiko uses alphanumeric codes to distinguish between various models and variations within a specific collection. The letters and numbers appended to the base model number provide additional information about factors such as dial color, bracelet type, and regional variations. In the case of the Seiko SNXS79K1, “K” indicates that the watch was manufactured outside of Japan, while “1” indicates that the watch is available in multiple band options, such as a leather strap or stainless steel bracelet.
