Seiko Sumo
Seiko, the watch collecting gateway drug. This thing was my gateway. But is it any good?
DESIGN
In my humble opinion. the Sumo is one of Seiko’s greatest designs. I am very much aware that the common watch collector probably doesn’t agree with me, but hear me out: There are so many different shapes and facets on the Sumo’s case. Wherever you look, there is a new reason to love it. The crown at four o’clock is a Seiko staple and it allows the big case to wear comfortably without the crown digging into your wrist. The massive 45mm case should not work with 20mm lugs, and I don’t know how it does it, but I find the Sumo to be both big, wonky, and top heavy, while also looking fantastic on the comparatively skinny bracelet.
MOVEMENT
I have bad experiences with the 6R15 from the first Sumo generations. The 6R35 is supposed to be an upgrade, with much longer power reserve of 70 hours, and hopefully a less problematic ownership. No issues so far, and it’s most definitely a massive jump up from the 4R series.
BUILD QUALITY
We all know the poor QC from Seiko and this Sumo is no exception. The second hand was loose upon arrival. Strange, but a quick fix for my watchmaker. Other than that, the Seiko feels great. Bezel action is nice, with one of the very best sounds in the watch world. There’s not much separating spinning the bezel from revving the engine of a big Harley Davidson motorcycle. Lovely stuff.
BRACELET
You know Seiko. The bracelet is nothing to write home about. It works, and it looks okay. On the other hand, the Sumo might actually be the one of the best Strap Monster out there. I chuck mine on a dual pass from CNSWatchBands.
X-FACTOR
For me, 10/10. The Sumo was my first nice watch and I have always adored its wonky toolishness. For you, perhaps not as special, but there is no denying that it’s really cool. Right?
CONCLUSION
One of my favorites in my personal collection. The third one I own, and this time I won’t sell it. It’s one of those watches that won’t ever go under your shirt cuff, but you wouldn’t want it to. It’s supposed to be seen. Perhaps on a colorful strap?
