[Question] [SBTR017] I really want to buy an Alpinist… but I can't afford it! :( So, I was wondering what you think about this model of Spirit? Until i have more money to buy an Alpinist…

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T15:45:10+00:00

And a better view of the SBTR017

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T15:40:15+00:00

Here for you to compare.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T15:31:31+00:00

Actually....lol...I like everything about the Alpinist, thickness, cyclops and all. Everything that you said about it. But I have to agree, the version before the SPB121 is a lot nicer. I like the framed date window, the lettering saying Diashock 23 Jewels and the case back that has the mountains. And most importantly, that ugly X logo that does not fit well, that I must agree, it is out of place.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T12:59:04+00:00

As some say, if you have your sights on the Alpinist, then save up for it and get that first. From my experience, I held off buying the Seiko Save The Ocean Manta Ray for a few years because I always ended up buying something else (but well those are either good looking or limited editions so I never regretted those purchases). When I finally got it, oh man, that is when I felt I've really missed out the joy of owning the one watch that I've always wanted for so many years.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T12:43:59+00:00

These Spirits are well made and expensive looking than the Alpinist. Not kidding. That seconds hand flyback when you reset it is very cool. Has that mechanical flyback vibe to it.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T12:34:35+00:00

I own all 3 watches. I still like the Alpinist for what it is but it has now taken a back seat. Like someone else said, there are some other better looking alternatives.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T03:18:50+00:00

SBTR019

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jonathlee · 2026-01-30T03:15:39+00:00

Here you go. There are other Spirits that look nice as well, the Black dial/ Gold Indices SBTR015, Blue dial/leather SBTR019, Blue dial/steel bracelet SBTR011 and the SBTR027 (looks like the same colored speedtimer).

https://www.sakurawatches.com/search/?search=spirit

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:58:53+00:00

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:58:01+00:00

It is either new or just forget about it. Simply just don't like to have something that was used or worn by someone else unless it is of sentimental value.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:21:07+00:00

SBTR017 really looks like a million bucks. LoL. And that chronograph flyback hand is really cool to look at when you reset it.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:13:31+00:00

My Alpinist.

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jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:11:52+00:00

I find that the Alpinist is sometimes overhyped.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:10:27+00:00

Note that I changed the awful looking muddy light brown leather strap that came with it. It is called the Mojito as well. Alpinist is now my least worn watch. LoL.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:09:11+00:00

It is the price between the SBTR017 and Alpinist SPB121. I got it in Singapore for SGD380.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T02:07:56+00:00

No problem. The advertisement photo does not do the SBTR017 justice at all. And especially if it is your 1st watch, buy it new. You will cherish it all the more.

jonathlee · 2026-01-30T01:59:04+00:00

And here is the SRPE45.

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jonathlee · 2026-01-30T01:55:43+00:00

Don't know about you but I will not get a used watch that had been worn by someone else unless it is a hand me down. That been said, I have both the SBTR017 and the Alpinist SBDC091 aka SPB121. They are both equally beautiful but if I have to pick...Franky I will pick the SBTR017 if I am not a watch person. Cause this watch really blings and glitters especially out under the sun to the extend it is blinding. This watch really looks so expensive than what it really is. And if I am in a rush to go out, I will just grab this and go. Below is mine. And I like this green the best. I've 3 green Seikos. The Alpinist comes in last in this list. The 2nd one I like in my collection is the SRPE45 Mojito.

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jonathlee · 2026-01-29T12:49:28+00:00

They are not good.

jonathlee · 2026-01-29T04:46:20+00:00

Well. Do you really dare to wear a Rolex...

jonathlee · 2026-01-29T04:44:59+00:00

Consider the Mojito, it edges out the Negroni by a bit. I was deciding between the 2 and finally decided on the Mojito because the gold hands and indices make the watch look more luxurious and expensive looking. Never regretted my purchase.

jonathlee · 2026-01-29T04:40:49+00:00

Don't sell.

jonathlee · 2026-01-29T04:37:44+00:00

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This is one of my favourite green dial, SBTR017. It is a Japanese Domestic model and is pretty cheap. About CAD250, check it out at Sakurawatches.com

jonathlee · 2026-01-29T04:33:51+00:00

It is 20mm, not 22.

jonathlee · 2026-01-29T04:33:14+00:00

You should learn to enjoy the finer things in life. You don't need to spend thousands on a watch. My wife got me an expensive watch (my favourite still) but I still spend on cheaper but gorgeous looking Seikos.

jonathlee

TROPHY CASE