I'm excited to compare two fantastic dive watches with GMT functionality – the Bulova Oceanographer 666 Devil Diver GMT and the Seiko SPB381. Both offer excellent features, but let's dive in to see which one might suit you best!
Key Specs: Bulova vs. Seiko
| Feature | Bulova Oceanographer 666 Devil Diver GMT | Seiko SPB381 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Movement | Miyota 9075 (True/Flyer GMT) | Seiko 6R34 (Office/Caller GMT) | The type of GMT movement makes a significant difference for travelers. |
| Water Resistance | 200 meters | 200 meters | Both are excellent dive watches suitable for recreational diving. |
| Case Size | 41mm | 42mm | A slight difference, but consider how they wear on your wrist. |
| Lug-to-Lug | 46mm | 47-48mm | Lug-to-lug is vital for wearing comfort on different wrist sizes. |
| Thickness | ~13.5mm | ~12mm | The Bulova is slightly thicker, which could impact its feel on the wrist. |
| Price | ~$1,295 (strap); ~$1,350 (bracelet) | ~$1,500 | Bulova offers slightly more affordable options, especially on a strap. |
| Crystal | Sapphire (domed on some models) | Sapphire (flat) | Both feature scratch-resistant sapphire, but Bulova's domed crystal adds to the vintage vibe |
| Bezel | Unidirectional dive-style, or 12-hour GMT (depending on model) | Unidirectional dive-style | Bulova offers the option for a GMT bezel for tracking multiple timezones. |
Additional Considerations:
- Bracelet: Seiko is known for excellent bracelets—research Bulova's bracelet quality to see if it's worth the extra cost.
- Lume: Bulova's full lume is exceptional for low-light visibility.
- Style: Seiko leans slightly more contemporary, Bulova has undeniable vintage charm.
Design and Features
Bulova Oceanographer 666 Devil Diver GMT
- Overall Aesthetic: Distinctly vintage-inspired, drawing from the design language of classic dive watches.
- Case Shape: Cushion case offers a retro vibe that sets it apart from many modern divers.
- Dial: Unique frosted crystal indices set in jewelry-like prongs, crosshair pattern—very distinctive.
- Hands: Wide, stubby hands enhance the vintage look, the diamond-shaped GMT hand is easily distinguishable.
- Bezel: Choice of dive-style or GMT bezel for extra functionality. Fully-lumed bezel (on select models) is a major bonus.
- Color Options: Varies depending on the model, but offers choices like a "Stormtrooper" white dial, root beer bezel, and classic black.
Seiko SPB381
- Overall Aesthetic: Modern interpretation of Seiko's own iconic 1968 diver, blending vintage cues with contemporary touches.
- Case Shape: Rounded, slightly curved case profile offers a classic dive watch look.
- Dial: Applied indices, Seiko's signature handset—clear and legible.
- Hands: Seiko's familiar arrow-shaped hour and sword-shaped minute hands. Slender GMT hand for a less obtrusive look.
- Bezel: Unidirectional dive-style bezel with clear markings.
- Color Options: Limited to black or green dial/bezel combinations for a versatile look.
Feature Focus
- Drilled Lugs (Seiko): Make strap changes super quick and easy.
- Signed Crown (Bulova): Adds an extra touch of refinement on some models.
- Quick Release (Bulova): Available on both strap and bracelet options for convenient changes.
Which Design Speaks to You?
- Love a blast from the past? Bulova's vintage flair is unmatched.
- Prefer a versatile classic with a modern twist? Seiko offers timeless style.
- Drawn to unique details? Bulova's dial and bezel options are eye-catching.
- Need easy strap changes? Seiko's drilled lugs are a huge plus.
The GMT Difference
GMT Movements: What's the Difference?
-
True/Flyer GMT (Bulova): In a true GMT, the primary hour hand jumps in one-hour increments, independently of the minute hand. The GMT hand (usually a different color) rotates once every 24 hours, indicating your "home" timezone. This is what many frequent travelers favor.
-
Office/Caller GMT (Seiko): In a caller GMT, it's the GMT hand that you adjust in one-hour jumps. This lets you easily track a second time zone, but it's slightly less intuitive for frequent adjustments if you're traveling.
How to Use Them
Bulova (True/Flyer)
- Set Home Time: Rotate the 24-hour GMT hand to match your home time zone.
- Set Local Time: Use the crown to set the main hour and minute hands to the local time.
- Travel: When in a new time zone, simply jump the main hour hand forward/backward without affecting the minutes or your home time reference.
Seiko (Office/Caller)
- Set Reference Time: Set the 24-hour GMT hand to your desired reference time zone (often home time or GMT).
- Set Local Time: Use the crown to set the hour and minute hands to local time.
- Read Second Timezone: Check the GMT hand against the bezel for the time in your reference zone.
Which Is Better?
- Frequent Travelers: True GMTs offer the most flexibility as you can quickly adjust the local time while keeping the home time reference intact.
- Less Frequent Travel or Second Time Zone Tracking: An office GMT is perfectly functional— it's just a slightly different way of setting the time.
Both watches offer valuable GMT functions. The best one depends on how you intend to use the complication.
The Verdict
Both watches pack amazing value. Here's how to choose:
- Love vintage vibes and a fully lumed dial? The Bulova is a winner.
- Want the flexibility of a true GMT? Bulova is the way to go.
- Prefer Seiko's design and drilled lugs? The SPB381 is a great option.
- On a budget? The Bulova on a strap offers the best value.
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