Songdu

A couple months ago, I came across Songdu as part of Low Cost Watches – A Series. The D-9237M was the most impressive of the three watches I examined in that review, and I expected that I would do a more in-depth review at some point. And here we are.

I liked the silver and blue version so much that I decided to buy the other two models in the series. The three color profiles are silver and blue, grey/black and orange, and black and red.

The review video: [https://youtu.be/0CRcylJSpyk]

The details:

• Model: Songdu No.D-9237M (Amazon Link)
• Diameter: 42mm
• Height: ~9mm
• Weight: ~50g (on leather)
• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Japanese Miyota 2315
• Battery: SR626SW
• Battery Life: ~3 years
• Jewels: None (0)
• Lume: N/A
• Accuracy: +-20 seconds/month
• Crystal: Mineral
• Water Resistance: 30m/100ft (splashing/rain)
• Price: ~$25

The review:

Let me be upfront…I am really enjoying these Songdu watches. That is not an exaggeration. Even though I am not a huge fan of quartz watches, I have some in my collection since they provide the advantage of having something set and ready to go when in a hurry.

Songdu has managed to create an appealing design in three color-ways that can provide a casual look or a dress look.

Maikes, Vintage Oil Wax Leather	Black strap with orange stitching	Red/black strap and white stitching

Straps (click links to see strap details)

The dial and case are simple and clean, while providing geometric features. Arcs frame opposite portions of the dial, the second hand matches the circled date window, and the minute numerals on the top half contrast with the markers on the bottom half. Single applied indices at only 12 and 6 give emphasis to important transitions. Toward the edge of the case the dial curves down, giving some depth to the design. What a simple but effective design!

The movement is a Miyota 2315 and, for the price of the watch, is a respectable movement. It is certainly better than some of the Chinese movements that could have been chosen and is on par with some of the Seiko alternatives.

Unpacking

The packaging for this watch impresses me. The watch comes in a cloth travel pouch enclosed in a transparent bag, both branded. The benefit is that it is not a just another box slated for the basement or recycling. It is a legitimate travel pouch.

The springbar tool is a good size for adjusting the clamps on the factory bracelet and can also be used for changing the strap to something more preferable.

Blue

Orange

Red

Case Back

Side

Cons

So what are the cons?

1. The default bracelet. Although it is fairly light and somewhat comfortable, the bracelet does not suggest quality or look good. I rarely like a stainless steel Milanese mesh bracelet, and this is a low-cost version. The good news: the watch looks great on leather straps.

2. The second hand on the orange model is more of a peach color and does not match the orange date circle. I wonder if it is just an issue on the one I received or if this is a regular occurrence. It is not a huge deal at this price point, but something to consider. I expect that when it comes time to replace the battery, that I will also replace the second hand with a truly orange hand.

3. Songdu straps. Though not related to the watches directly I did order a $10 Songdu “Light Brown” strap that also did not quite match the suggested color in the picture. Other colors may be fine, it has quick release pins, and comes with a springbar tool. But, I believe I will stick with straps from other brands.

On the wrist

Blue

Orange

Red

The Collection

The Songdu D-9237M series provides great value for the money. I recommend investing in a different strap should you buy one, but the watch does not disappoint.