The Seiko Cocktail Time SRPB41 takes the renowned Seiko formula of great value, ravishing dials, unrelenting reliability and presents it in the presage line up. This watch has been around for some time and is a fan favourite among enthusiasts, but should you buy the hype? With a 40mm steel case, rather slim proportions and featuring the Seiko caliber 4R35, the cocktail time is easy to wear for a wide range of wrists.

Let’s just get straight to it, how about that dial? The sunray finish is stunning with its appearance highlighted by its pressed dial creating further depth and character to already show stopping visuals. Polished indices and hand sets create a fantastic contrast in finishing techniques while ensuring legibility is not foregone. In low light, soft light and bright sunshine the cocktail time never ceases to amaze. It almost never shows the same shade of blue and the polished hands/markers give off that signature Seiko sheen. It really is a sight to behold and not just a watch that you will enjoy for yourself, but a great conversation starter. People notice this watch, enthusiast or not and can’t help but admire the eye catching nature of the dial.

There is so much to love about the Seiko Cocktail Time SRPB41, but no timepiece is perfect. The original bracelet is garbage. The folded end links barely find their home between the lugs and the 5 link design is bereft of any structual integrity, inspiring no confidence in its construction. I would strongly recommend swapping it out for a leather strap of your choice. Moreover, for such wearable proportions, the oversized crown is a head scratcher. It digs into the back of the wrist at times and being an automatic, has no right being so large. It’s a slight spoil on an almost perfectly ergonomic timepiece. While no watch is perfect, this incredible value proposition offers something so unique and visually appealing at a steal. Believe the hype!