SKX007J version for $200 is nice. Can't find that on Amazon under $270.
Question is, is the J version worth the extra money over the K version? I know there is a lot of forums with the same question discussed, just wonder what you guys think here?
TolstiyNo. The J version is only meant for a market (middle East) where the product origin is based on the company, "Seiko," being based in Japan. They're all made in the same factory by the same people (in all likelihood Malaysia).
TolstiyI actually got a Seiko Samurai K version before. I didn’t realise it wasn’t made in Japan haha.
I joined the drop for J version. If I’m buying a Japanese brand watch. Only makes sense to me if I get one that is made in Japan. You wouldn’t get a Swiss watch that isn’t ’Swiss made’ would ya.
TolstiyI suppose it depends on your priorities, but I personally paid extra (about $250) for the J version. I don't know how much quality it adds to the watch, but at the very least it sets your watch a bit apart from all the other SKXs out there. I don't regret my purchase.
Siamtime65Some youtubers notice difference in polishing between the J and K.. But that may be related to the certain batch quality or what not. No proof of that.
TolstiyIt's entirely your choice whether to pay more for a "J" code but if you do the right research, you'll eventually discover the truth. There are hundreds of posts with "opinions" on this topic but ultimately, the only real facts come from Seiko themselves. Go ahead and see what they have to say about it. I don't want to add any speculation so I won't. I will just say that I am satisfied enough with my research to buy the "K" line and I have bought dozens of them.
GratisSharkI totally agree with you, research is the key. I'm not saying everyone need to make the same decision as I did. But my decision to get the J vs K was like getting an extended warranty on top of already a very reliable product. That piece of mind that it may save me some hassle in case I get a watch with some imperfection. We all understand that the SKX line is a budget friendly product and QA can miss some minor issues no matter J or K, but from what i've seen, there is less of those imperfections on J versions. Also the J will hold the value just a bit better then the K version just because of that Made in Japan.
TolstiyI agree with what you said with the possible exception of the difference in imperfections of each line. But nevertheless, I am glad that you made the right decision for you. I also sometimes opt for a specific watch taking into account the warranty. Having said that, I want to pass along to others that the warranties offered have everything to do with the place of purchase and not the models involved. If you want an OEM warranty from Seiko, then you must purchase from an Authorized Dealer whether it is a J or K item.
TolstiyI also believe that you are right about the resale values. As long as this topic is open for discussion, enough people will pay more for a J piece.