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Should you buy a JDM Watch? | Seiko SBTR021 Spirit Chronograph


Seiko SBRT021 Chronograph on 8.25" wrist
JDM Seiko on my 8.25" wrist

The Seiko SBTR021 Spirit Quartz Chronograph watch is a high-quality timepiece that is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, stylish watch. This watch is JDM only from their amazing Spirit collection. I bought mine from Sakura Watches online, but you can also find it on Amazon and other places. My watch shipped from Japan and it has a number of features that make it stand out from other watches on the market.


One of the most notable features of the Seiko SBTR021 is its quartz movement. Quartz movements are known for their accuracy and reliability, and the Seiko SBTR021 is no exception. The watch is powered by a high-quality quartz movement that keeps time accurately, ensuring that you can always rely on it to keep you on schedule. It's not just a quartz, but instead it is referred to as a mechaquartz, combining the the best of both worlds. It features an in house Seiko 8T63 movement that boasts an approximately 3 year power reserve or battery life.


Seiko SBTR021 guarantee pamphlet says "This guarantee is valid only in Japan."
Guarantee only applies in Japan

In addition to its reliable movement, the Seiko SBTR021 also boasts a number of other features that make it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality watch. It is good news that it is a high-quality watch because the Seiko guarantee is only valid in Japan, so you are taking a risk buying in other countries.


The watch has 3 sub dials, with a 60 minute chronograph counter 9:00, a small seconds at 6:00, a 24 hour (military time) indicator at 3:00, and the date at 4:30. The small seconds hides the tick, tick, tick, that quartz is known for, while the mechanical chronograph provides a smooth sweep of the seconds on the timer. It also snaps back to zero when reset, which is so satisfying. The chronograph function allows you to measure elapsed time, up to 60 minutes, and then it stops automatically.


The Seiko SBTR021 also has a date function, which allows you to keep track of the current date. The date function is located in an odd position at 4:30 on the watch face, but it is easy to read thanks to the large, clear font that is used. The background of the date matches the watch dial so it blends in nicely, but is clearly visible. At first I thought the odd placement would bother me, but in real use, I don't even notice it, unless I am looking for the date.

Seiko SBRT021 Chronograph obligatory unboxing
Obligatory unboxing shot

One of the things that sets the Seiko SBTR021 apart from other watches is its design. The watch has a sleek, stylish look that is sure to turn heads. The watch case is made of stainless steel, with polished sides and brushed lugs for a high-quality look. The watch also has a black dial with white markings, which makes it easy to read in any lighting conditions. It has high polished applied indices that sparkle when it catches the light. Seiko really knows how to make beautiful dials. The brushed Seiko logo is also applied and gives added depth and interest to the watch face.


The Seiko SBTR021 comes with a durable, comfortable strap that is made of genuine leather. The strap has a buckle closure, which makes it easy to put on and take off, and it is also adjustable, so you can get a perfect fit. Stock straps are not always the best and I can never leave watches alone, so I put it on a black 20mm perlon strap that I got from Wrist Candy Watch Club. The Seiko SBTR021 looks great on just about any type of strap. I have put it on a few and I will likely add some 20mm bracelets to my collection, specifically to go on this.


Seiko SBRT021 Chronograph Lume Shot
Lume Shot

In addition to its stylish design and practical features, the Seiko SBTR021 is also built to last. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, which means that it can withstand splashes of water, rain, and washing your hands, making it a great choice for everyday wear. I am not a fan of taking non-divers swimming or in the shower, do so at your own risk, and remember there is no warranty outside of Japan.


Seiko lume is great and this watch has it on the hour and minute hands as well as a small subtle amount at the outer end of the hour markers. It glows nicely off of the machined finish rings on the sub-dials and creates a very appealing look to the watch.


Overall, the Seiko SBTR021 Spirit Quartz Chronograph watch is a top-quality timepiece that offers a combination of style, functionality, and durability. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, stylish watch that they can wear every day.

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