Seiko Alpinist Owner Review : Disconcerting, wild and beautiful

During a weekend in early December 2022, strolling through the shopping streets of the sad city of Liège, I pass by a window of an AD Seiko. Stopping to contemplate the different models on display, I flash on the dial of this Seiko Prospex Alpinist “Rock Face”. At that time I do not know the model and not wanting to bother my partner, I do not take the time to go back to try it. I nevertheless take a photo, telling myself that I would go do some research on the internet once I get home. I finally forget to go do this research. For Christmas, I am in Paris at my sister's in the 6th arrondissement. I decide to go for a walk in the neighborhood on the 24th in the morning. I knew that there was a Seiko showroom in the neighborhood, I decide to go there. Being alone and having all the time in the world, I go through the door of the store. I walk past the various shop windows until I come across the famous Rock Face. I decide to try it on. I like it a lot. I don't know if it's the very friendly salesman, the "limited edition" aspect, or the Christmas atmosphere, but I compulsively decide to take it. 2 years later, I somewhat regret my purchase. The beauty of the dial that had hypnotized me that day is still there, but it no longer erases the negative points of this watch: - The limited series is in reality too "available", can quickly be easily found in new condition with a discount of almost 20%. Certain effect of the Seiko Prospex policy of launching more and more limited editions. - The two bracelets provided do not satisfy me. The blue leather feels very cheap when worn, an unpleasant impression of imitation leather. The fabric bracelet with leather interior, however, lacks flexibility and quickly becomes dirty. - The watch, which keeps a rather contained diameter of 39.5mm, is disproportionately thick: 13.2mm. The case back is particularly thick and the lugs start too high on the case. - The case quickly gets scratches, despite a rather anecdotal wear. Quite disconcerting for a toolwatch. The quality of the steel is far behind my Victorinox STAINLESS. - The precision clearly does not seem to me to be there, without having had it tested. I realize that the watch takes several tens of minutes of advance between two wears, remaining on a winder. All these defects and the presence of many alternatives in my collection now make me want to get rid of it. Which goes to show that, for a long and serious relationship, it is better to take your time in your search and think twice, than to fall for an aesthetic love at first sight.