"Sub-Marinemaster" SJE101 user impressions

[taura]

(This is an AI translation of a post I wrote elsewhere, and felt appropriate to post here as well.)

My collection was missing that essential do-it-all dive watch (even tried a Submariner which didn’t quite cut it for the role), so I jumped at the chance to snag a Seiko SJE101 at a good price. I don’t have any particular attachment to the Marinemaster name, so here are my thoughts on the watch without any preconceived notions.



The case design successfully modernizes the familiar 62MAS formula. The size is restrained, and the (also quite restrained) thickness is cleverly disguised by the downward curve of the lugs. The design details show real effort, and the overall package works well. The brushing and polishing are solid for a watch in this price range, with transitions between finishes noticeably sharper than in lower-end Seikos. It’s not haute horlogerie, but it’s absolutely everyday luxury.

The steel bracelet is comfortable and even feels high-quality, though I’d prefer it fully brushed. Thankfully, the watch looks great on rubber, and especially with this black MN strap (and it works on NATO straps too, if that’s your thing). The case and bracelet feature Seiko’s Diashield coating, which is supposed to protect against scratches. The coating gives the metal a slightly darker tone, which suits a tool watch vibe. That said, I haven’t noticed it preventing scratches, and it seems to make the case prone to smudging, so I’d personally opt for uncoated steel.

The bezel operates in classic Seiko fashion—think turning a vintage safe. The action is firm, though, and I’ve got no complaints. The alignment is spot-on too.



In photos, the dial’s horizontal stripes are the first thing that grabs your attention. The pattern is practically identical to the Aqua Terra, and I’m not sure why Seiko felt the need to copy it when they’re perfectly capable of creating distinctive dials. In person, the stripes are far less prominent than in pictures, so they don’t hurt legibility. Otherwise, the dial is reasonably well-executed with crisp printing. The finishing lacks a bit of depth or liveliness, leaning heavily functional. The indices could use some beveled edges to catch the light from different angles; as it stands, they reflect light in a binary on/off way.

The hands don’t suffer from the same issue—they’ve got a three-dimensional quality, and legibility is excellent regardless of lighting or the watch’s position. The lume is applied over the indices but still packs a punch, apparently a step above Seiko’s standard offerings. In the light LumiBrite looks either greenish (in natural light) or mostly colorless (under artificial lighting).

The movement runs accurately and smoothly enough, though not quite at COSC-level precision. It’s nicely finished too—not quite Grand Seiko territory, but not far off—and the display caseback is a nice touch. What’s baffling, though, is why they slapped a big, unnecessary sticker in the middle of the caseback, obscuring the view.



Overall, the package feels cohesive and delivers a pleasing, sporty, high-quality impression that easily competes with brands like Longines or Tudor. At the same time, it’s unmistakably a Seiko, staying true to its roots (aside from those dial stripes). If you’re after a diver in a moderate size or a “step-up Seiko,” the SJE series is absolutely worth checking out. I think the MSRP is a too high but I found a barely used one at -50 %, and am happy with it.

[AF_Rob]

AI gave you a nice translation. I appreciate your thoughts, as I've been considering adding one.

[taura]

I’m glad it was helpful. I’m liking this watch more every day. After a bit of break-in the movement has been super accurate (think GS accurate) and changing the strap to an even more comfortable one has made wearing the watch really enjoyable. It doesn’t look cool in the mirror like a Submariner (not ugly either, just unassuming and inexpensive), but checking the time is always a joy. At MSRP -50% it’s one of my best watch buys so far.

[Rebel]