Seiko's mechanical movements are some of the most widely used in the watch industry. Known for their reliability, durability, and affordability, the NH series of movements (NH34, NH35, and NH36) are particularly popular among both watch enthusiasts and brands looking for a dependable automatic movement. In this article, we'll compare the Seiko NH34, NH35, and NH36 movements in terms of their features, functionality, and performance to help you understand which one is best suited for your needs.

Whether you're a hobbyist building a custom watch or you're simply curious about Seiko’s mechanical calibres, this comprehensive guide will break down the key differences between the NH34, NH35, and NH36 movements.

Overview of Seiko NH Series Movements

Before diving into the specific differences, it's important to understand the context in which these movements are used. Seiko's NH series consists of high-quality automatic movements designed primarily for mid-range watches. They are engineered for reliability, ease of maintenance, and longevity, making them an excellent choice for a variety of timepieces, from dive watches to dress watches.

The NH34, NH35, and NH36 are all part of this series, with each movement offering unique features and complications. Although they share many similarities, the differences in their complications make each one suited for different types of watches.

Seiko NH34 Movement

Key Features:

• GMT Hand: The Seiko NH34 is unique in the NH series because it features a GMT hand, which allows the wearer to track a second time zone. This makes the NH34 perfect for travellers or those who frequently need to reference the time in multiple time zones.
• Date Complication: In addition to the GMT hand, the NH34 also features a date complication, displayed in a date window at 3 o'clock.
• Power Reserve: Approximately 41 hours.
• Vibration Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph).
• Hacking and Hand-Winding: Like the NH35 and NH36, the NH34 offers hacking (the second hand stops when the crown is pulled) and hand-winding, which adds to the watch's accuracy and time-setting convenience.

Best For:

The Seiko NH34 is ideal for watches that require a GMT function along with a date complication. It’s a perfect choice for travellers, pilots, or anyone who needs to track two time zones simultaneously. The NH34 combines practical timekeeping with an added level of versatility for those who need more than just the local time.

Seiko NH35 Movement

Key Features:

• Date Complication Only: The Seiko NH35 features a date complication but lacks a day or GMT function. This makes it ideal for simpler designs that just need a date display.
• Power Reserve: Approximately 41 hours.
• Vibration Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph).
• Hacking and Hand-Winding: The NH35 supports both hacking and hand-winding, making it easy to set the time accurately and manually wind the movement when necessary.

Best For:

The NH35 is widely used in affordable automatic watches, particularly in minimalist designs where only the date complication is needed. It’s also a popular choice for watch modders, offering a reliable base movement for custom builds. The NH35 is a great option for watches that don’t need a day or GMT complication but require a solid, no-frills automatic movement.

Seiko NH36 Movement

Key Features:

• Day and Date Complication: The Seiko NH36 features both day and date complications, making it a versatile movement for practical watches. The day of the week is displayed beside the date, typically showing all seven days.
• Power Reserve: Approximately 41 hours.
• Vibration Frequency: 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph).
• Hacking and Hand-Winding: Like the NH34 and NH35, the NH36 offers both hacking and hand-winding, providing excellent time-setting accuracy.

Best For:

The Seiko NH36 is perfect for those who need both the day and date displayed on their watch. It’s commonly found in tool watches, dive watches, and everyday wear watches where having a full calendar function is a key feature. The NH36 is a great choice if you want both of these complications in a reliable, affordable movement.

Comparing the Seiko NH34, NH35, and NH36 Movements

Key Differences Between the NH34, NH35, and NH36

1. Complications (Day, Date, and GMT):
• NH34: The standout feature of the NH34 is the inclusion of a GMT hand, making it ideal for those who need to track a second time zone. It also includes a date complication but no day of the week function.
• NH35: The NH35 is simpler, featuring only a date complication. It’s perfect for watches that don’t require a day or GMT function, offering a straightforward and reliable option for minimalist designs.
• NH36: The NH36 offers a full day and date complication, making it a more functional choice for practical watches that require both features. It is ideal for tool watches or dive watches.
2. Use Cases:
• NH34: The NH34 is the go-to choice for GMT watches, such as travel or pilot watches. If you need to track multiple time zones, the GMT hand makes this movement a perfect fit.
• NH35: The NH35 is well-suited for simple watches that only require the date function. It’s also a favourite among watch modders, thanks to its affordability and versatility.
• NH36: The NH36 is best for those who need both the day and date displayed on their watch. It’s often used in dive watches, tool watches, and other utilitarian designs.
3. Price and Value:
• The NH34 tends to be slightly more expensive than the NH35 due to the inclusion of the GMT hand, but it’s still very affordable compared to higher-end movements. The NH35 and NH36 are both great value options, with the NH36 being priced a bit higher due to the extra day complication.
4. Durability & Precision:
• All three movements share similar specifications: a vibration frequency of 21,600 vph, a power reserve of around 41 hours, and hacking and hand-winding functions. These common features ensure excellent timekeeping accuracy and durability across the NH series.

Which Movement Should You Choose?

• If you need a GMT function: The Seiko NH34 is the best option. Its GMT hand allows you to track a second time zone, making it perfect for travellers, pilots, or anyone who needs to know the time in multiple regions.
• If you only need a date complication: The Seiko NH35 is a great choice. It offers a simple and reliable date complication, making it ideal for minimalist or custom-built watches.
• If you need both day and date complications: The Seiko NH36 is your best bet. It provides both features, making it suitable for a wide range of practical and tool watches.

Conclusion

The Seiko NH34, NH35, and NH36 are all excellent movements, each serving a different purpose based on your needs. Whether you’re after a GMT complication, a simple date feature, or a full day and date display, Seiko’s NH series offers reliable and affordable automatic movements for a variety of watch designs. By understanding the differences between the NH34, NH35, and NH36, you can make an informed decision for your next watch or project.