And yes, SEIKO totally competes with Rolex in the world of high-end timepeices but please don't compare an SKX007 to a Rolex Submariner. It's a silly comparison. Like saying your loaded Camry is as nice as your neighbor's Mercedes C-class. They are both smooth and quiet and loaded with goodies and you are entitled to genuinely prefer the Camry but only a fool would say they are equal rides.
In fairness, Jon, we're comparing an SBGA029 to a Sub. The former is a ÂŁ6k watch over here so it's not exactly apples and oranges.
For me, where the big difference lies is not in the technical differences of the watch, the quality or the aesthetics, much of which is subjective. The big difference is that, for many, the importance is all in the name. The Rolex Sub and Datejust, exactly as you said above, are instantly recognisable and certain people will attach a status and label to you when they see you wearing one.
I guess you then have to decide whether you care about that, like it, dislike it, need it or are appalled by it. :grin:
If we think about this purely on technical merit, the "real" goal of a watch is to accurately tell the time. So if two watches can do this equally reliably then the one with the best time-keeping ought to be our choice. On this one the SBGA029 wins.
But of course looks are also important. That's so subjective we may as well simply label that one a draw.
Quality-wise, I've owned them all and preferred the new style Sub bracelet and clasp to the SBGA029 in terms of quality. The SBGA029 won on dial, bezel and hands. Couldn't see any difference quality-wise between the two cases so let's call this one a draw, too.
Re-sale value, Rolex will always win here because it appeals to a much broader market and they raise their prices circa 10% per year.
Last category: instantly recognisable status symbol. Rolex wins hands down but only if you want that and associate with the kind of people who place an importance in that. Here the Seiko wins for me but I've been called an inverted snob for saying as much.. :grin:
(Do read all of the above with a tongue placed loosely in one cheek.)