Seiko SNA473 Chrnograph

Seiko makes great watches for a great price. Many swear by them and have entire Seiko collections, while most other watch aficionados seem to have at least one Seiko in their collection. The SNA473 is no exception. This watch blends modern sporty styling with a classic feel. From the moment the watch arrives, the Seiko quality is noticed. For a $475 watch, the SNA473 is nicely packaged in a blue Seiko box with a nice display pillow. Easy to follow directions make the chronograph much easier then some other companies. Despite this, there will always be the people that say "I really don't know what all of this does, but I like the look."

The face is pretty loud, but not overly crowded as many other chronographs. Three dials are featured being minute timer on the top, second timer on the left and alarm on the bottom. This makes every feature useful and easy to find. The dials are located on the right, and are fairly easy to use except for the time changing dial. This piece is set down more then most watches and is not as easy to twist. The hour and minute hand are fairly easy to read, even when over the chrono, and the green luminescent is okay.

The band is the only part of the watch that is questionable. It features two slits on both sides near the face, but they end in time for the flexible part. Although the stainless steel looks nice, its design is somewhat cheap. This cheap feeling is due to the light weight of the band, not a feature that many watch aficionados appreciate. The clasp is very secure though with a fold- over, push- button deployment design.

The quartz movement is very precise and reliable. You will always be running on time, although it is good to check every so often as pieces will gain or loose time. The water resistance to 100m is poor, but this is not a divers watch. Despite this, the three year manufacturer warranty is a great feature.

For the price, the Seiko SNA473 is a great value, and one that most watch collectors would find as a great value towards their collection. Whether it be at the top or bottom of your budget, this watch is worth a bit more then what you pay for. Overall, a great watch for a great price.

MSRP: $475

Practicality: 7
Durability: 6
Style: 4
Value: 9
Overall: 6.5