If I had to name one
With so many
Not to mention, when we wear a good-looking timepiece, we not only add to our outfit, but we also simplify our day-to-day operations.
(Ever pull out your phone to check the time, and twelve minutes later, gasp as you come up for air from the infinite scroll hole you dove deep into?)
It’s no secret that Swiss
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Is Seiko a good watch ?
If by “good” you mean reliable, accurate, well-designed, and available at many price points, then yes, Seiko is a good
Seiko has
YOU’LL LOVE THIS ONE, TOO
A few interesting and notable points: In 1969, Seiko was the first to introduce the quartz wristwatch. And in 2012, Seiko launched the Astron, the world’s first GPS solar
This is a fun article to read if you’re a Seiko fan looking to learn more about its history and the technical advances they made via the
Why you should buy a Seiko
Since 1881, Seiko has been creating jaw-dropping
Their craftsmanship has been honed over decades, starting with pieces like the Seikosha Timekeeper to timeless classics like the Seiko SKX007.
So, if you’re wondering, “Why Seiko?”, it boils down to this: Great value for the price, and a seemingly infinite number of good-looking models to choose from no matter your budget.
You’re sure to find something that works for you, but there’s also a chance you may be overwhelmed with their huge offering. And so that’s why we put together this article for you!
Is Seiko a luxury brand?
No, Seiko’s main lines aren’t considered luxury, although Grand Seiko (now completely separate from main-line Seiko) is being built up as a global luxury
Seiko has
(If you’re looking for your first luxury
From the sub-$100 Seiko 5 which we feature in this post, to Seiko’s dressier Presage line (Cocktail Time being a favorite, also featured below), and of course, to the previously mentioned four- and five-figure Grand Seikos… you’re bound to find a Seiko
In this article, we’re highlighting 15 of our favorites! Let’s get started.
Seiko Tool / Sport Watches
Seiko has made some outstanding tool and sport
(If you’re into tool
Most of our recommendations will be tool
Here are a few of our favorite Seiko tool
Seiko SKX007 / SKX013 Automatic Watch
The Seiko SKX007 is a must-have for any
Editor’s Note: While we’re mostly referring to the SKX007 here, know that the Seiko SKX013 is very similar, just housed within a smaller case (the 007 is 42mm, while the 013 is 36mm). If your wrist measures 7″ or smaller, I’d suggest the SKX013. –BC
This watch is Seiko’s quintessential diver and its most popular, likely because it makes you look like a discerning collector!
The Seiko SKX007 uses the 7s26 mechanical movement, which is a less expensive movement than the movement in models like the Seiko Presage or any of the Grand Seiko models.
Of course, you have to keep in mind that the Seiko Presage and Grand Seiko models are substantially more expensive than the Seiko SKX007.
On top of that, the Seiko SKX007 has a 44-48 hour power reserve, meaning that the
The Seiko SKX007 features a very clear day and date window centered on the dial seen through the Hardlex crystal. LumiBrite markers provide long-lasting luminosity and easy visibility in the dark. This model has 22mm stainless steel and rubber
This is a
Keep in mind the SKX013 has all the same features in a smaller 37mm size.
Seiko SKX007 Features:
- 21 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic movement
- Case size: 42mm diameter
- Water resistance: 200m
- Case back: Screw-down
Seiko SKX013 features:
- 21 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic movement
- Case Size: 37mm diameter, 11.5mm thickness
- Water Resistance: 200m
- Case back: Screw-down
Seiko Prospex SBDC005 Orange Sumo / SRPC07 Orange Samurai
I like this
The first thing you’ll notice with the Seiko Prospex Orange Sumo is the orange dial. This is what makes this
Somehow, Seiko has managed to take a color that most people think is too bright for
Furthermore, there’s plenty of contrast with the white hour markers against the orange dial. On this
Judging by the aesthetics and build of the Seiko Orange Sumo, it’s perfect for the rugged, active guy who isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty.
Here’s the bad news: It’s not easy finding an Orange Sumo. And if you do find one, chances are they’re for resale at a much higher price point than its original retail.
But there is some good news…
While the Sumo is hard to find, here’s another option, the Seiko SRPC07 orange Samurai.
Seiko SRPC07 Orange Samurai features:
- Calibre 4r35 automatic movement
- Self-winding
- Rotating bezel
- Case size: 44mm diameter
- Water resistance: 200m
So, while the iconic Orange Sumo is a little difficult to find nowadays, Seiko has offered a solid alternative with similar aesthetic and just as many features as the Orange Sumo. Some might say this one looks even better.
Seiko SARB017 Alpinist
The Seiko Alpinist has a rather interesting story.
Initially, the
What used to be a mid-$350s
As of late 2020, Seiko has expanded their Alpinist line, introducing a handful of new models. About a year earlier, Seiko released (via Hodinkee) a limited edition Alpinist to the U.S. market. Of course, this sold out quickly.
The Seiko Alpinist has a wide range of interesting features.
For one, it boasts an attractive, deep green sunburst dial and mix of gold-tone Arabic numerals and indices with luminous dot hour markers and hands.
The Arabic numerals are situated at the 12, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10-o’clock positions and markers are situated at the 1, 5, 7, 9, and 11-o’clock positions. The Seiko Alpinist also utilizes cathedral-like minute and second hands, which adds a more elegant touch. It also features a calendar date window.
The Alpinist is typically seen with a calfskin leather strap, although a stainless steel bracelet option is also available.
Seiko’s calibre 6R15 is used in the Alpinist; this is a higher-end movement typically utilized in Seiko
If I see someone wearing a green dial watch while walking down the street, the first thing I’ll think of is the Seiko Alpinist. It’s a timeless classic from Seiko and no other green dial
If you’re looking to buy a Seiko but don’t have a particular preference, then I highly recommend you check out the Alpinist.
It has so many great technical and aesthetic qualities that you usually find in more expensive
Seiko SARB017 Alpinist features:
- Caliber 6R15 automatic movement
- Case size: 39.5mm diameter
- Water resistance: 200m
Seiko Prospex SNE435P1 Padi Solar
The Seiko PADI Solar SNE435 is an affordable dive
This elegant diver features a multi-layered face: the seconds at the top layer, then the layer with the hour indices layer below that, then the isolated sunburst middle dial. Seiko’s PADI Prospex watches are made in partnership with The Professional Association of Diving Instructors, so you know this line works as beautifully as it looks. If you want an affordable dive with a classic luxury sport style, go for this Prospex.
PADI’s signature blue and red color scheme and logo are among the stand-out design elements and is great for you “Pepsi”
Another notable feature is the solar quartz movement. Solar quartzes have great utility and accuracy. No winding needed, of course, and battery changes are few and far between.
If your SNE435 is completely powerless, all it needs is 30 minutes to an hour in direct sunlight and it’s ready to go. You get up to 10 months of continuous power when fully solar charged.
Seiko Prospex SNE435P1 Padi Solar features:
- Calibre V157 Quartz movement
- Photovoltaic cell receives light and transforms to electricity to charge battery
- When fully charged, battery stores up to 10 months of power
- Case size: 43.5mm diameter
- Water resistance: 200m
- Case back: Screw-down
Seiko Prospex SRPB51 Stainless Automatic
If you love the detail in the orange SRPC07 but are looking for something less conspicuous, the SRPB51 is right up your alley.
This Samurai is a more traditionally streamlined diver, also featuring 200m of water resistance, rotating bezel, lume, and a screwdown crown. Collectors will recognize the trademark samurai hands, comprising a long sword for the second and a short dagger for the hour hand.
Similar to the Orange Samurai but with a black dial and matching black bezel, this Samurai is much more ninja-like.
Of course you also have the same Hardlex mineral crystal, date display, and lumed hands and markers.
Seiko Prospex SRPB51 Stainless Automatic features:
- 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic movement
- Self-winding, hacking
- Case size: 44mm diameter, 12mm thickness
- Water resistance: 200m
- Case back: Screw-down
Seiko Prospex SRPD25 “Blue Monster”
Make no mistake: This is a big, chunky dive
The Monster, by the way, got its nickname because the original had hour markers like sharp teeth, coated with a bright lume. That, coupled with its bold design, big bezel, and thick hands earned it the nickname “Monster”.
This isn’t a
One subtle design feature is the inlaid bezel. Typically, when viewed from the side, bezels sit on top of the case. But the Monster’s bezel is slightly sunken in, which helps the
The SRPD25 features a dark blue dial, LumiBrite luminescent application on the hands and indices, and a Hardlex crystal with cyclops date lens.
Seiko Prospex SRPD25 “Blue Monster” features:
- 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic movement
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Case size: 42.4mm diameter, 13.4mm thickness
- 200m water resistance
Seiko Dress Watches
There’s no doubt that Seiko makes some of the best dress
Grand Seiko Elegance SBGM221 Mechanical GMT
Grand Seiko was started to rival high-end Swiss watches. In fact, it is an independent brand, wholly separate from the main Seiko line.
The Elegance line represents Grand Seiko’s dressier collection pieces (the other two lines being Heritage and Sport).
God is truly in the details with this watch. The high polish case, beveled hour markers, and diamond-cut hands with beveled edges are a start.
Other details: A brown crocodile strap with three-fold clasp and push button release, a sapphire crystal display back, Zaratsu polished lugs, blued steel 24-hour hand (dual time) on a deep ivory dial.
Nothing was overlooked, and admittedly, words don’t do it justice.
Grand Seiko Elegance SBGM221 features:
- In-house Calibre 9S66 automatic GMT movement
- Power reserve: 72 hours
- Accuracy: +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static) / +10 to -1 seconds per day (normal usage accuracy)
- Case size: 39.5mm diameter, 14.5mm thickness
- Case back: exhibition style
Seiko Presage SRPB43 Cocktail Time
When you first set eyes on the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time (model SRPB43), you’ll be awed by the look of this
And considering its luxe aesthetic, you’ll be even more surprised by just how affordable this timepiece is.
At $400, this is the perfect minimal dress
What I really like about the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time is that they don’t follow the traditional dress
Seiko added their own flair with a sunburst-style dial in a subtle, unique coloring. And the best part about this dial is that it doesn’t take away from the aspect of a dress
There are plenty of great dress
Seiko Presage SRPB43 Cocktail Time Features:
- Calibre 4935 automatic movement
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Case size: 40.5mm diameter
- Water resistance: 50m
Seiko Presage SARB033 and SARB035
The SARB033 and SARB035 are great alternatives to the SRPB43.
The SRPB43’s ice blue sunburst dial and leather strap is quite handsome, but there are times you want a
The often elusive SARB035 is coveted for its versatility, classy and clean design that forgoes unnecessary elements, and its collectability. The 035’s beautiful cream dial, delicate and polished indices, and sword hands have a recognizably distinguished style, even compared to its closest copycats. With its sapphire crystal, 50-hour power reserve, and icon status, the SARB035 is a genuine crowd-pleaser.
A few differences here: SARB033 comes with a black dial, and the SARB035, a cream dial. Both are on stainless steel bracelets.
The automatic movement differs from the SPRB43, with a longer power reserve (50 hours vs 41 hours in the SARB043), increased water resistance, and most notably, a slightly smaller case size at under 38.5mm vs the SARB43’s almost 41mm.
Seiko Presage SARB033 / SARB035 features:
- Calibre 6R15 automatic movement
- Self-winding, hand winding, hacking
- Power reserve: 50 hours
- Case size: 38.4mm diameter, 11.2mm thickness
- Water resistance: 100m (suitable for swimming and snorkeling, but not diving)
- Case back: exhibition
Seiko Presage SSA387 Cocktail Time “Golden Champagne” Power Reserve
Lastly, I had to include the SSA387 as an alternative to the original Cocktail Time.
The Golden Champagne is the most celebratory-looking watch of the Cocktail Collection, featuring eye-catching gold sword indices and hands, a champagne-hued background, and its trademark power reserve function. It runs on an automatic movement that you can admire through the exhibition caseback.
This one, dubbed “Golden Champagne“, is in the same Presage family as the ice blue Cocktail Time, but has a few design differences.
For one, it has a champagne-colored dial with a subtle pressed pattern and power reserve indicator. Instead of the typical date window at 3 o’clock, there’s a date sub-dial at 6 o’clock.
The indices are gold-toned which complements the champagne dial. And finally, the strap is a brown alligator-patterned leather with deployant clasp.
Seiko Presage SSA387 features:
- 29 jewel Calibre 4R57 automatic movement
- Self-winding, hand winding, 21,600 vibrations per hour
- Power reserve: 41 hours (indicator display)
- Case size: 40.5mm diameter
- Water resistance: 50m (suitable for swimming but not diving)
- Case back: screw-down exhibition style
Seiko Recraft Series: Funky and Retro
So what exactly is Seiko’s Recraft line of
If you’re looking for eye-catching wristwatches, you’ll find something you like in this series. Here are some favorites:
Seiko SSC667 Solar Chronograph
The SSC667 is a quartz chronograph measuring up to 60 minutes of elapsed time in 1/5 increments, including a split time measurement function and a 24-hour indicator.
It features a stainless steel case, blue dial with three dark blue sub dials, LumiBrite hands and markers, and a date calendar, all held on your wrist with and blue and orange nylon strap.
Seiko SSC667 Solar Chronograph features:
- Calibre V175 Quartz, Solar Powered
- Power reserve: 6 months fully charged
- Reserve indicator: 24 hours
- Case size: 43.5mm diameter
- Water resistance: 100m
Seiko SNKM97
The SNKM97 definitely has a certain vibe and is quite the eye-catcher with the green gradient dial and gold-tone hands and hour markers.
This watch is from Seiko’s vintage-inspired Recraft collection, and is a perfect choice if you want to be noticed or if you’re a nostalgia-buff. It’s chunky on the wrist and its retro green and gold color palette is evocative of popular men’s timepieces from the late 60s and early 70s. Other cool design elements include a sunburst dial that's so shiny, a laser beam effect runs across the face when the sun hits it directly, and the white-framed 12, 6, and 9 markers that match the white-framed day/date.
The outer ring is slightly angled, and with the contrasting second markers, is hypnotizing like a Vegas roulette wheel.
Most notable is the tonneau case. Tonneau is French for “barrel”, or in watchspeak, the case has a curvy rectangular shape.
What’s cool about this model is the fact that it’s a new Seiko creation, although it has the look and feel of something that’s been reissued from the archives.
Seiko SNKM97 features:
- 21 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic self-winding movement
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Case size: 43.5mm
- Case back: Exhibition
- Water Resistance: 50m
Seiko SNKP25
The SNKP25 is another great retro option featuring a rectangular steel case with dark brown leather strap, brown gradient dial and gold-tone hands and markers.
The brownish, reddish gradient dial in particular complements the overall vintage aesthetic nicely.
Seiko SNKP25 Automatic Stainless features:
- 21 jewel Caliber 7s26 self-winding automatic movement
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Case size: 39.5mm diameter, 13mm thickness
- Water resistance: 50m
Seiko 5 Series: Best Budget Seikos
Most of the watches we’ve already mentioned are already quite affordable, but what if you only have $100?
Luckily, Seiko also offers timepieces that cater to those who don’t have $300+ to spend on a timepiece. And in case you were worried about a drop in quality, the value isn’t overlooked with Seiko’s sub-$100
Seiko 5 (SNK803, SNK805, SNK807, SNK809)
When you consider the price-to-value ratio of the Seiko 5 line, you’re going to be shocked.
If you’re looking for the perfect outdoor
The different model numbers, SNK803 / 5 / 7 / 9, seem to signify the alternative color options only. Each
While the black canvas strap isn’t necessarily a stand-out option, it can definitely hold up in most gritty situations. If you want to get rid of the canvas strap and opt for a leather or steel bracelet, the 18mm lugs make it very easy to swap.
Utility-wise, you’re getting a lot from the dial. For one, Seiko makes sure to contrast the black dial with the white Arabic numerals, allowing for a simplistic design that is easy to read. They also incorporate luminous hands and markers that allow you to easily tell time in the dark, another plus for any
But the two best things about this
Usually, you won’t see an automatic movement or a day-date window in a sub-$100 watch.
In fact, the Seiko SNK809 will only run you about $80!
The Seiko SNK809 holds a wide range of features. The
You get all of these features for $80, so if this isn’t a budget
Seiko 5 (SNK803, SNK805, SNK807, SNK809) features:
- Calibre 7s26 automatic movement
- Case size: 37mm diameter
- Water resistance: 30m
Seiko 5 Sports SNZG13
The SNZG13 is a great alternative to the SNK line if you have a bigger wrist (7.25″+).
It’s a mid-sized military field
The hands are fencepost style and fully lumed with a red-tipped arrow second hand. The day date wheel matches the white-on-black dial, and the larger numeric hour markers are accompanied by a smaller 24-hour scale, typical for military
Overall, the SNZG13’s styling is simple and utilitarian with heritage details any military
Oh and best of all, there are two other color options: Desert Khaki and Military Green with matching nylon bands.
Seiko 5 Sports SNZG13 features:
- 23 jewel Calibre 7s26C automatic movement
- Case size: 42mm diameter, 12mm thickness
- Water resistance: 100m
- Case back: exhibition
So what’s the BEST Seiko for you?
In this article, we’ve taken a look at some of Seiko’s best
From their icy classics like the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time to uncanny masterpieces like the Seiko Prospex Orange Sumo, Seiko has offered a wide range of great watches that we can choose from.
But if we had to offer you our favorites right now, which would they be? Which Seiko pieces would we recommend without hesitation?
After re-examining the benefits and features of each
- The Seiko 5 SNK809
- Seiko SKX007 (or SKX013)
- The Seiko SARB035 with cream dial, and
- Grand Seiko Elegance SBGM221
This watch is Seiko’s quintessential diver and its most popular, likely because it makes you look like a discerning collector!
The often elusive SARB035 is coveted for its versatility, classy and clean design that forgoes unnecessary elements, and its collectability. The 035’s beautiful cream dial, delicate and polished indices, and sword hands have a recognizably distinguished style, even compared to its closest copycats. With its sapphire crystal, 50-hour power reserve, and icon status, the SARB035 is a genuine crowd-pleaser.
Starting with our tool
The Seiko SKX007 / 013 has developed a well-known reputation for its functionality both in and out of water. Seiko 5 SNK809 is the perfect budget-friendly military style timepiece, even though wearing it will make you feel like a million bucks.
Seiko’s SARB035 is a
It has classic and timeless looks, and the elegant cream dial and polished markers feel luxurious enough for a suit but not out of place with chinos and a button-up
And finally, this may be a reach for most, but if you’re in the market for a luxurious and high end dress
At A Glance: Features and Specs of Every Seiko
We covered a lot of Seiko
| MODEL | CASE SIZE | MOVEMENT | WATER RESISTANCE (DEPTH) | POWER RESERVE | CASE BACK | OTHER FEATURES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seiko SKX007 | 42mm | 21 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic | 200m | – | Screw-down | – |
| Seiko SRPC07 “Orange Samurai” | 44mm | Calibre 4r35 automatic | 200m | – | Screw-down | Self-winding |
| Seiko SARB0917 | 39.5mm | Calibre 6R15 automatic | 200m | – | – | – |
| Seiko SNE435 PADI Solar | 43.5mm | Calibre V157 Quartz | 200m | – | Screw-down | Photovoltaic cell receives light and transforms to electricity to charge battery |
| Seiko Prospex SRPB51 Automatic | 44mm | 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic | 200m | 10 mo. fully charged | Screw-down | Self-winding, hacking |
| Seiko Prospex SRPD25 | 42.4mm | 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic | 200m | 41 hours | – | |
| Grand Seiko Elegance SBGM221 | 39.5mm | Calibre 9S66 automatic GMT | 200m | 72 hours | Exhibition | – |
| Seiko Presage SRPB43 “Cocktail Time” | 40.5mm | Calibre 4935 automatic | 50m | 41 hours | – | – |
| Seiko Presage SARB033 & SARB035 | 38.4mm | – | 100m | 50 hours | Exhibition | Self-winding, hand winding, hacking |
| Seiko Presage SSA387 | 40.5mm | 29 jewel Calibre 4R57 automatic | 50m | 41 hours | Screw-down exhibition | Self-winding, hand winding, 21,600 vibrations per hour |
| Seiko SSC667 Solar Chronograph | 43.5mm | Calibre V175 Quartz Solar | 100m | 6 mo. fully charged | – | 24-hr reserve indicator |
| Seiko SNKM97 | 43.5mm | 21 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic | 50m | 41 hours | Screw-down exhibition | – |
| Seiko SNKP25 | 39.5mm | 21 jewel Caliber 7s26 automatic | 50m | 41 hours | – | – |
| Seiko 5 SNK80* | 37mm | 23 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic | 30m | – | – | – |
| Seiko 5 SNZG13 | 42mm | 23 jewel Calibre 7s26C automatic | 100m | – | Exhibition | – |
Which Seiko watch is your personal favorite?
Seiko has always been a well-respected
They’ve created luxury
But no matter which timepiece you get from Seiko, you’re always guaranteed to receive solid quality and craftsmanship at a wallet-friendly price point.
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