I got an email from Seiko on July 1 telling me that my SPB317 was in the mail. Due to me being a few days away (Rammstein concert! Oh man!!!!) the watch too a little longer to arrive... today, around 1PM (local time) it was handed to me!!!
First impression: I like it! It's abslutely made for my 19cm wrist. Not as freaky wobbly as some other Seiko's. And with a 20cm lug width, a lot sleeker as well. The silicone/rubber(?) strap is lightyears ahead of the 'normal' Z22s you see on most Seiko's! Still, I'm not a fan; I wear all my watches on nato straps and I'm hoping for an Uncle Seiko H-bracelet for this watch.
The fact that the 'coin'd edge' of the bezel is slightly tapered (see the profile pic) makes it even a little less in your face. And the crystal is nicer than the normal Hardly. The position of the date is something I have to get used to,, but after an hour or so on my wrist, I do not notice it anymore. The hands are absolutely different from the original 6105. Don't think you'll notice the difference when you wear it. You will notice it!
Anyway, a bunch of pics.