The wind whipped around my neck as I adjusted the azimuth on the sextant, squinting against the late afternoon sun. This wasn’t a yacht club gathering; it was a solo run across the straits, and my trusty Seiko 5, the SNK809, was along for the ride. Not exactly a chronometer, but for a simple, reliable timekeeper? It’s hard to beat.

Let’s be clear: I am not one for flashy horology. Practicality reigns. The SNK809 has a black dial, easy enough to read even when wrestling with a recalcitrant jib in choppy waters. Its silver-tone stainless steel case is robust; it takes a proper beating. The automatic movement is the real winner, though. No batteries to fuss with, and when properly maintained—say, a gentle shake to wind it up after a few days—it just works. The 30-meter water resistance? Enough for a splash, definitely. Think twice about a deep dive, however.

The canvas band, though perfectly serviceable for everyday wear, wasn’t quite sea-worthy. It absorbed moisture, creating an unpleasant, clammy sensation against the wrist. A quick swap for a NATO strap, however, and the problem vanished. Problem solved! Honestly, that’s what makes this watch so endearing: it’s adaptable. You can make it your own.

Now, some might complain about the lack of hacking seconds. You can’t stop the second hand to precisely set the time. A small inconvenience, sure, for those who demand the utmost accuracy, but hardly a deal-breaker for the average user, or in my case, a solo sailor. Frankly, I usually don’t even notice.

Compared to a similarly priced Timex Expedition Scout—a perfectly decent alternative—the Seiko 5 has a certain effortless elegance. The Expedition feels a bit…clunkier. It’s a matter of preference, naturally. But the Seiko’s clean design just speaks to me, even if it is just a little something to glance at when tacking against a stiff breeze.

So, here’s the bottom line: If you’re looking for a dependable, affordable automatic watch that punches well above its weight, the SNK809 is an excellent choice. It’s not a luxury item, but it’s a genuinely useful tool. Grab one. You won’t regret it. And if you’re feeling adventurous? Learn how to change that strap. You’ll be glad you did.