Seagull 3025 One-Week Review: A Summer

First Impressions: Packaging and Strap Options

The Seagull 3025 arrived in a significantly upgraded box compared to the standard blue cardboard packaging of other Seagull models. The original black alligator leather strap with pin buckle is lovely, but summer heat calls for something more breathable. After some searching, I settled on a millet-style steel bracelet, which looks surprisingly good and doesn't compromise the watch's character. I also experimented with a spare brown leather strap with white stitching for a few days—a nice casual alternative.

Wearing Comfort and Case Thickness

My wrist circumference is 16cm, and the 38mm case diameter fits perfectly. The only concern before purchase was the stated thickness of 13.9mm. Using calipers, I measured the thickest point at just over 14mm, but the crystal edge sits around 13mm. From a strict 90-degree side view, it looks like a typical 13mm watch—not as thick as my 13.9mm Damasko pilot with a flat crystal. The domed crystal has a subtle pointed arch, not a flat plane, which reduces perceived thickness. From most angles, including 60-70 degrees, the watch appears under 13mm thanks to the crystal's light refraction and the inward-curving caseback. For a 16cm wrist, the visual presence is well-balanced.

Hand-Winding Experience

I own four hand-wound watches, and the 3025 ranks third in winding feel. The STOWA 36 Flieger with its onion crown takes first place—unsurpassed. Second is the Bucherer Adamavi gold dress watch with a small but well-proportioned crown. The Seagull's crown is decent, but the two chronograph pushers flanking it get in the way during winding, forcing an awkward fingertip grip. It's not as smooth as it could be.

Dial Readability: A Double-Edged Sword

The most challenging aspect of this watch is telling time at a glance. The Suzhou numerals (Chinese numeric characters) aren't the issue—it's the dual track scales. The inner track has regular minute markers, but the outer track includes pulsometer and tachymeter scales, creating visual clutter. The five-minute/hour markers aren't prominent enough, making quick reading difficult. The small seconds subdial at 9 o'clock also feels cramped, though I've had smaller ones (like on the Nomos 173) that were easier to read. Perhaps it's an age thing, but the 3025 demands a second look.

Chronograph Operation: Soft and Muffled

Having used a 7750-based chronograph with a cam mechanism, I expected the column-wheel 3025 to offer a crisper action. Unfortunately, the pushers feel soft and lack the decisive 'click' of the 7750. When pressing start, I'm never quite sure if I've engaged the chronograph until I glance at the running seconds hand. The button travel is long, and the tactile feedback is muted. Some may prefer this lighter touch, but I found it less satisfying.

Accuracy: Acceptable but Not Exceptional

At full wind, the watch runs +8 seconds on the timegrapher. In real-world wear, it gains about +12 seconds per day, which is consistent with my 7750 Damasko. While not COSC-grade, I find it perfectly acceptable for a mechanical chronograph. Faster is better than slower, in my book. Individual examples may vary, as Seagull doesn't enforce strict accuracy standards, so it's a bit of a lottery.

Overall Verdict: A Beauty with Quirks

Despite the criticisms, I don't regret buying the 3025. It's genuinely stunning—one of the best-looking Chinese watches, with a beautifully designed and finished in-house movement, anti-reflective coating, and meticulous detailing like perfectly aligned hands and polished indices. The dual-scale dial is a trade-off between complexity and legibility. I'll switch back to the alligator strap come autumn and enjoy the full experience. For now, it's a summer companion that draws compliments and sparks conversations.

Buying Tips for Replica Watch Enthusiasts

Size: Ideal for wrists 15-17cm; larger wrists may find it too small.
Strap: The included leather is high-quality but not summer-friendly; consider a steel bracelet or perforated leather.
Readability: If you prioritize quick time-reading, the busy dial might bother you.
Authenticity: Ensure you buy from authorized dealers to guarantee genuine Seagull quality and warranty.