[mob]

hey guys, im a new guy here but still learning every day, ive been reading over the new board and the old one. and a question thats been in my mind while reading a lot of these topics is why are the tuna, and sumo and monster so popular. is it the way they are designed, are the limited edition ? i understand that each watch model is unique in its own but wondering why these are considered the elite of the seiko group.

thanks again

 

[UpstandingCitizen]

In my opinion, these particular models are wildly popular first and foremost because of the relatively immense value they represent. This is especially true of the Monster and the Sumo, as it has sort of become gospel in the watch community (especially amongst Seiko fanatics) that these models are incredible in the bang-for-your-buck department.

Of course, it does go deeper than that. The Monster has what I would consider to be quite an original design, as it doesn't take many cues from the classic diver design. There isn't an ounce of homage in that watch...it's all Seiko, all the way.

Regarding the Sumo, you can barely go a single day without hearing raves about its fit and finish at such a low price point. Having handled the Sumo, I can confirm that indeed it is head and shoulders above the entry level divers (Monster, 007, etc.) in this regard. Also, the Sumo has a bit more exclusivity being that it's a JDM model, and it also has a higher end movement that hacks and hand winds.

In terms of the Tuna, not only is it a great value (or perhaps I should say that it was a good value ), but it also has a long history and lineage in terms of Seiko professional dive watches that dates all the way back to when these watches were actually used as tools. The watch also features a high-torque movement that was specifically designed for the line (which some might argue qualifies it as an H.E.Q.). Beyond all of that, it too is a JDM Seiko watch, which makes is a bit more exclusive. In my estimation, the Tuna Can is the ultimate Seiko diver, so forgive me if I show a bit of bias toward it.

 

[laser8]

I did not own a Monster (don't like the look), but started my path with a 007. Excellent watch for the money, but left me a bit indifferent. After hearing much praises about the Sumo, I said why not? And you know what: it is really surprising how much watch you get for your money. Easily comparable to Omegas and similar costing five, six or seven times more, with the upside of the feeling that only a Seiko JDM gives you (it does feel good to wear something "special", doesn't it?).

Speaking of Tunas, I disliked them for a long time, but slowly the bug started to eat me: I browsed a lot and learned about its specific history, its form follow function design, its very Japanese essence, and see where I landed:

No other watch I own compares to the Tuna.

 

[Isthmus]

In all three cases it is a mix of original design, very high quality, HISTORY, and a relatively high content to price ratio as compared to the european competition.

In every single case you can clearly see where each design has drawn from over 40 years of seiko diver design and development, in terms of construction, styling, quirks, movement types, movement development, etc.

Thefact that they are relatively affordable only makes them that much more popular.

The funny thing is that the base models are the popular ones. The limited editions enjoy their popularity because of the base models, and not necessarily because they are limited editions.

 

[LUW]

Bang-for-the-buck.
It's really hard to find other models that will deliver the same oomph per dollar spent. However, being totally frank, for the life of me I can't see why the Monster is such highly regarded because to my eyes - and my apologies in advance, since I can't find a softer way to say it - I think it's ugly. I know it's a VERY good watch for the price, but for me it does nothing. The other two, on the other hand, I think are great.

So if you add great price, excellent quality and good looks (well, that depends...), all three are great watches. And that's why they'll become collector's items highly sought after in a few decades.