Seiko & Citizen Watch Forum Message Archive

I wasn't crazy about the Invicta-Seiko review that was done by John Holbrook, just because I don't think it was a fair review. I loved John's pictures and I liked what he said about both watches. I'm glad he spent the time to write a review, but besides price, they are very different watches IMHO. The Invicta IMHO is an homage to Rolex, and should of been compared to say an OW or another Submariner homage.

What I liked a lot about your review (besides the pictures of course) is that price aside, the Doxa is very similar to the Seiko. The Seiko and the Doxa are unique designs and I think, represent a more appropriate comparison.

I've had my eye on the Doxa for a while...long before the re-issue, I've considered a vintage Doxa. I regret not buying a vintage one, as prices seem to have increased since the re-issues.

The Doxa offers a great unique design, its definitely chunky and heavy, which I like. But after handling the seiko, I can't see myself going for a Doxa. For the price...and what it is, it just seems expensive. I don't mean to sound like a watch snob, I'm far from that, but its just another nice design, with "little soul." I know you didn't cover movements much in your review, but the Doxa contains a stock, twenty dollar movement. Then again, so do many watches on the market (i.e. Panerai).

Ever since I got my Seiko 779 last week, I've just been blown away by this watch. I continue to be impressed by this watch. The fit, finish, and innovation is just amazing. Especially for a watch that can be found as low as $150. I don't understand how Seiko can make money. Even if the Seiko was twice the price (or possibly 3x), it would be a bargain. And I'm not even talking about the bracelet. If the braclet had a Swiss name on it, we all know it would cost several hundred dollars.

I'm not looking at the case with a loupe (not that I would if I owned a loupe), but the Seiko case seems to made as well, if not better than many "Swiss" watches.

As far as movement goes...I think the ETA has a few advantages, mainly being able to be manually wound, closer tolerances, and better finish. But a "raw" ETA movement, as used in the Doxa goes for about 50 bucks retail. The movement appears to be stock and unmodified by Doxa. These "advantages" of the ETA can also be seen as disadvantages. Many people argue that the ETA might require more service down the road.

basically, after buying the Seiko, I find its hard to justify the price of many watches. Including the Doxa. The Seiko gives not only the Doxa, but many "mid level Swiss" watches a run for their money. The Doxa maybe be "limited," but they are releasing models with other dial colors. But if you like it and can afford it, why not. All what really matters is if you like it.

Thanks for the review, just my $.02