I was in a bad auto accident back in April of '11 and spent several months recouping.  Along with several major bones, my old Seiko watch was mangled, but I managed to save the band.  I had to buy a new watch a few months later when I was up and around.  Being a real stickler for the correct time, I wanted a reliable and rugged replacement.

I gave this watch a 5 star rating because of the watch, itself.  It would've gotten 4-1/4 stars because of the buckle-type band.  I had such good luck with my old Seiko that I looked at more newer Seiko models.  I chose this 21 jewel, blue/black faced self-winding model.  No costly battery replacements every 4 or 5 years for this one.  I especially like the generous phosphorous coating on the hour markings and hands.  The luminescence in the dark is very visible even at a glance.  It is a handsome polished stainless steel case with a brushed stainless band with a semi sophisticated, easy-to-read and uncomplicated dial face.  The calendar day/date window is positioned at 3 o'clock where it should be, and, easy-to-read.

After an easy 1 minute setup, I strapped it on and voila, I had a great looking and very accurate watch.  Not realizing this is a self-winding type (DUH), I set it up at night, put it on my dresser overnight.  When I put it on the next morning, the watch had stopped.  I thought, "Oh no, I bought a lemon."  but then it started to run.  I re-read the instructions and saw the self-winding feture.  My only complaint, if you can call it a complaint is, the buckle-type band.  I never did like that type, but it's only my preference.  The band itself is secure, nice looking and can be shortened or lengthened via 3 adjusting pin holes at the buckle.  I think with all the positives, I'll learn to live, even like the band that comes with this watch.  According to the atomic clock in Colorado, the accuracy is silly rediculous.  Now, if only they could make a watch to adjust for daylight savings time and back by itself.

All in all, I'm very pleased with this Seiko.  If this serves me 11 years and as well as the old one, I'll be happy.  Hopefully, it won't meet it's demise the way the old one did.  It's not very often anyone buys an item sight unseen, save a picture or two, and be happy with the purchase.  I can with this watch.  You don't have to pay hundreds of dollars to get a genuinely good watch.  The price was right, and with Amazon's free shipping policy with this item, made it even more attractive.  'Nuff said.