Frederique Constant Classics Automatic vs. Seiko SARB 035??

[pspa123]

The concepts seem similar I think although the SARB is cheaper and 2 mm or so smaller and metal band. Thoughts welcome including relative quality.

[mpalmer]

i'd take the FC. The case may feel weightier and the absence of a bracelet may be better than the sarb bracelet. The rotor on the Seiko movement feels a little clinky and the ETA movement may be more accurate out of the box since there isn't much adjustment going on with Seiko movements at this price point.

All that said, I'd rather have the Seiko 065 'Cocktail Time' than either of these...

[pspa123]

FC is Selita I think not ETA.

[VicLeChic]

That FC screams absolute timelessness. That's exactly what I'm after especially with classic dress watches, but also with sport watches to some extend.

The Seiko looks great, but doesn't look half as classic IMHO.

[Toothbras]

I much prefer the Seiko

[Veda]

They both look the same. Just a matter of swiss or japanese.

[obomomomo]

FC is Selita I think not ETA.

Which means almost nothing. They are the essentially the same movement and by most accounts equivalent build quality.

I have the SARB033 (black dial), do not own any FC but have tried on several and been quite impressed with the design and quality. I'd say the FC is more of a dress watch compared to the SARB which has a classic conservative look much like a Rolex Datejust. The SARB may also be a touch small for some tastes, 2mm may not seem like much but on wrist it can make a huge difference.

Given the choice again I'll go for the FC. Unless you really need your watch on a steel bracelet.

Edit: BTW try having a look at Epos for similar dress watches at this price point.

[monza06]

It depends if you want classy (FC) or sporty (seiko) but having owned a FC I would say that the quality justifies the higher price next to the Seiko.
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[mike4761]

You need both. The FC for the office 4 days a week. The Seiko for casual Friday. I would not wear the FC with shorts. I would not wear the Seiko with a suit. The Seiko only dresses up to a certain level. The FC only dresses down to a certain level. It's only money. You can't take it with you :)

Carpe Diem

[thebigjt]

I have the 035 and like it a lot. I think it fits in the "everyday casual dress" category, which is why I would go for it. Although some FC models (moon, for example) are cool, I think Seiko at this price point is the way since it's an honest functional piece that doesn't pretend to be something else.