eBay is full of bargains, and clunkers, when it comes to watches,. Then there’s odd scam artist on there too, usually with 5 feedback ratings and a nearly new motorhome for sale at 10K below the usual value.
Your humble writer is a big fan of Seiko group watches. Not just Seiko 5 or Presage models, but watches like the handsome Orient Mako 2/3 series, or the Pulsar and Lorus quartz timepieces, which offer remarkable value for money. What I love about Pulsar is that you’re getting Seiko build quality for a few quid less – bit like buying the Skoda version of a VW/Audi car.
This Pulsar PU2 model chronograph caught my eye because it’s a striking black & teal coloured dial, with a matching teal button to start/stop the chrono function on the 43mm case. It really stands out and makes a change from the usual black/red or black/yellow combos that you often see on Gents sporty chronograph quartz watches.
It sits on a brushed stainless steel bracelet, which has that ring of Seiko quality about it. Easy push-button release on both sides, foldover clasp. I have a slim wrist so I removed two links and moved the fastening pin up on notch on the Pulsar embossed clasp to get a perfect fit. Link pins push out and there are arrows to guide you.
Another detail I like is the thumb shaped flyback button on this Pulsar, which reminds me of an indicator button on a 1970s RD400 Yamaha. Very ergonomic and easy to use – again that bit different from the mainstream. It’s a screwback case by the way, so battery replacement is less of a chore, assuming you have the three pin tool and a clamp to hold the watch.
This watch has 100m depth rating on the dial but my many years of replacing batteries and fixing up vintage watches has taught me one lesson; if it isn’t a dive watch, don’t swim with it on your wrist. Ever.
This PU2 model is discontinued as far as I can tell, which is why I found one at Rubicon Watches on eBay for £75 I guess. The watch arrived within a few days of purchase and has its box, including outer box, plus booklet, protective seal strips, tags etc so you get the full set just like you would if buying from a High Street jewellers shop. Rivals include the Pulsar Solar WRC model, which I saw on the Lowry Jewellers website at £77.42 – undeniably tempting, and H Samuel have a few Pulsar chrono models at £80 or so.
But for me, it isn’t the big savings that attracted me to Rubicon Watches, it was the chance to get exactly what I wanted. In the end, you should buy the watch collection that you want to wear, and enjoy – right?
