Seiko Baby Monster vs. Orange Monster


The Seiko Orange Monster is one of the most popular, and affordable Seiko timepieces. It comes with a Japanese automatic movement for the price of a typical Japanese quartz timepiece. Needless to say, the value proposition is amazing.

The Seiko Baby Monster (pictured, right), is maybe an even better value. It has most of the features that have made the original Orange Monster (pictured, left) so popular, for approximately one hundred dollars less.

At 42 mm in diameter by 14 mm in height the case dimensions are virtually the same as the original Monster. However, the Baby features a redesigned dial, bezel and lugs. Plus, the crown has been moved to the 3 o’clock position on the case flank and crown guards have been added. Moreover, the Baby uses a less desirable non-locking crown, which has a lower cost but also reduces the maximum level of water-resistance (from 200m to 100m).

Seiko also keeps the cost down by using a hardened mineral crystal (on the entire Monster collection) as opposed to a more premium, and much more scratch resistant sapphire crystal. Aside from the crystal and crown, though, the rest of the timepiece is hard to distinguish from a typical automatic diver watch.

The Baby Monster has a clear caseback, allowing a clear view of the automatic 23-jewel mechanical movement. The bracelet features brushed and polished stainless steel with a folding clasp.

Like the original Monster, the Baby represents a phenomenal value within the entry level automatic diver category. However, if you are doing actual diving, you are better off getting the original Monster. The retail price is $150 for the Baby Monster and $250 for the Orange Monster.(Ref SNZF45K1 – White Baby Monster, SNZF47K1 – Black Baby Monster, SKX779K1 – Black Monster, SNZF49K1 – Orange Baby Monster, SKX781K1 – Orange Monster)