The 15 BEST Seiko Watches To Add To Your Collection

by Tristan Zheng, Karlton Miko Tyack and Barron Cuadro  |  in Watches

If I had to name one watch brand that consistently builds quality timepieces but doesn’t break the bank, I would go with Seiko in a heartbeat.

These are the 15 BEST Seiko watches—our personal favorites out of the hundreds of models available (plus a few extras). Best of all, we’re including links for each so you can easily buy the ones that catch your eye.

It’s no secret that the Swiss are the leaders in the watch market, but most are pricey and expensive to maintain. And while you might be able to find affordable Swiss watches, Seiko is a Japanese watch brand that never fails to impress, no matter if you’re spending $100 or $10,000.

Even with so many different models on the market, Seiko is a consistently reputable, relatively affordable, and trusted brand that you can depend on for a solid wristwatch.

best seiko watches sport watches and dress watches
 

“Show me all the watches!”

If you prefer to see all the Seiko watches we recommend up front (plus all their variants), and read more later, well… who am I to judge?

Here they are:

Is Seiko a good watch?

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If by “good” you mean reliable, accurate, well-designed, and available at many price points, then yes, Seiko is a good watch brand.

Seiko has watch models and styles available at every price range, so of course these factors will vary to a degree, but overall the brand as a whole is solid and has a ton of history (the company was founded in 1881, almost 150 years ago).

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 watch.

This is a fun article to read if you’re a Seiko fan looking to learn more about the brand’s history and the technical wristwatch advances they made over the years.

Why you should buy a Seiko

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Since 1881, Seiko has been creating timepieces that are both highly effective in their field (dive watches for water, field watches for the outdoors, etc.) and good-looking on the wrist.

Their craftsmanship has been honed over decades, starting with pieces like the Seikosha Timekeeper to modern 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?

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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 watch brand.

Seiko has watches at every price range, and all series have solid options.

(If you’re looking for your first luxury watch, check out our article on the best entry-level Rolex watches.)

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 watch you love.

In this article, we’re highlighting 15 of our favorites! Let’s get started.

Seiko Tool / Sport Watches

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Seiko has made some outstanding tool and sport watches throughout their history. Tool watches are designed for a specific task or sport: Chronographs for timing races, divers for deep sea exploration, GMTs for traveling across time zones.

(If you’re into tool watches, you may enjoy our articles on the best dive watches under $500 or the best affordable Omega Speedmaster alternatives)

Most of our recommendations will be tool watches, simply because there are so many outstanding models in this wide-ranging category.

Here are a few of our favorite Seiko tool watches.

Seiko SRPD55 / SKX007 / SKX013 Diver

For years, we recommended the fan favorite SKX007 / SKX013 dive watch in this top spot, but they were discontinued in 2019 and have been getting more and more expensive since (assuming you can find one online).

Seiko released a new Seiko 5 lineup replacing the SKX line, and among the 27 or so models they have, the SRPD55 is closest to the SKX007, at least visually.

Seiko 5 SRPD55
$219.00

From the Seiko 5 Sports Style lineup.

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The SRPD55 has a number of changes when compared to the SKX007:

  • Upgraded calibre 4R36 movement (7S26 in the SKX), featuring a 40-hour power reserve, hacking, and hand-winding
  • Push instead of screw-down crown
  • 100m instead of 200m water resistance

The Seiko 5 uses Hardlex crystals and all feature the exhibition-style case back, which isn’t functional, but fun to look at.

Seiko SKX007 / SKX013
Favorites from the discontinued SKX line: The Seiko SKX007 with rubber strap (left), SKX013 with steel bracelet (right). Both models had options for both a rubber strap and steel bracelet.

The biggest hang-up, assuming you have smaller wrists, is the 42.5mm size for all models. Unfortunately there isn’t a 37mm equivalent in the Seiko 5 line (yet), so if you enjoyed the size of the SKX013, the new Seiko 5s will feel a bit bigger.

But! I have a small wrist myself (6.25″) and I personally don’t think the 42.5mm size looks too big on the wrist. That’s because the lug-to-lug measurement is only 46mm, so it’s not swallowing up my entire arm (visually).

Your mileage may vary on this, but I think it’s worth giving the SRPD55 a shot if you’re looking for a classic black and steel diver.

Seiko SRPD55 features:

  • 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic movement
  • Case Size: 42.5mm diameter, 13.4mm thickness
  • Water Resistance: 100m
  • Case back: Screw-down, exhibition
  • Crown: Push / Pull
  • Power Reserve: 41 hours

Seiko 5 SRPD59

It’s not easy finding an Orange Sumo (SBDC005), and the Orange Samurai (SRPC07) seems to be increasingly tough to find as well. And if you do find them, chances are they’re for resale at a much higher price point than its original retail.

But there is some good news: If it’s the eye-catching dial you’re after, the SRPD59 is a solid option.

Seiko 5 SRPD59
$295.00 $216.00

At 42.5mm and 13.4mm case thickness, the Seiko 5 SRPD59 may satisfy your desire for a watch with similar aesthetics to the Orange Samurai or Orange Sumo.

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Somehow, Seiko has managed to take a color that most people think is too bright for watches and turn it into the standout feature of a beloved timepiece. 

Furthermore, there’s plenty of contrast with the white hour markers against the orange dial. On this watch, you’re getting an automatic 4r36 movement and a see-through case back to observe the automatic innards.

Judging by the aesthetics and build of the SRPD59, it’s perfect for the rugged, active guy who isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. Or wet! The 100m water resistance is fine for a casual swim (just no prolonged deep diving).

Seiko SRPD59 features:

  • 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic movement
  • Case Size: 42.5mm diameter, 13.4mm thickness
  • Water Resistance: 100m
  • Case back: Screw-down, exhibition
  • Crown: Push / Pull
  • Power Reserve: 41 hours

So, while the iconic Orange Sumo and Samurai are a little difficult to find nowadays, you an at least scratch your orange itch with this Seiko 5 Sports model.

Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121 / Limited SBDC091 / SARB017

The Seiko Alpinist has a rather interesting story.

Initially, the watch wasn’t regarded as a keeper for Seiko enthusiasts. But when its discontinuation was announced in 2018, not only did its demand rise, but so did the price.

Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121
$929.00

A modern reimagining of the cult classic original Alpinist SARB017 released in 2006.

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What used to be a mid-$350s watch now averages at a price point of around $1000, if you’re lucky enough to find it on the secondary market, like eBay.

In 2020, Seiko has expanded their Alpinist line, introducing a handful of new “Baby” models which omit the compass dial, the extra crown at 4 o’clock, as well as the 3 o’clock crown guard.

And about a year earlier, Seiko released (via Hodinkee) a limited edition Alpinist to the U.S. market. Of course, this sold out quickly.

Luckily, we still have the SPB121 in our midst.

The Seiko Alpinist model 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 with magnified cyclops.

The Alpinist is typically seen with a stamped calfskin leather strap, although a stainless steel bracelet option is also available.

Seiko’s calibre 6R35 is used in the SPB121 Alpinist; this is a higher-end movement typically utilized in Seiko watches costing upwards of $1000.

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 watch will ever be able to one-up it.

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 watches. But with the Alpinist, you’re getting the value of a $1000+ watch for about half that.

Seiko SPB121 Alpinist features:

  • Caliber 6R35 automatic movement
  • Case size: 39.5mm diameter
  • Power Reserve: 70 hours
  • Water resistance: 200m

Seiko Prospex SNE549 / SNE435P1 Padi Solar

The Seiko PADI Solar SNE549 (the SNE435 is the same watch, just an older model number) is an affordable dive watch made in partnership with international diving organization, PADI.

Seiko Prospex PADI Solar SNE435P1
$365.00

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.

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Another worthy option, though visually larger, is the Seiko SRPE99. We appreciate PADI’s signature blue and red color scheme and logo; they’re among the stand-out design elements and great for you “Pepsi” watch lovers out there.

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.

Seiko Prospex Padi SNE435P1

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 SNE549 / 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.

Seiko Prospex SRPB51 "Samurai"
$385.00

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.

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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 and Crown: Screw-down

Seiko Prospex SRPD25 “Blue Monster”

Make no mistake: This is a big, chunky dive watch, though arguably slimmer than its Monster predecessors.

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 watch you’d wear with a suit. It fits in with casual and smart casual outfits, though you may be making concessions with your cuffs depending on how tightly they button. Also pairs nicely with scuba gear, naturally.

Seiko SRPD25 Blue Monster

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 watch profile’s overall thiccness.

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

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There’s no doubt that Seiko makes some of the best dress watches. They meet the standards of any extraordinary dress watch: clean, highly functional, and dazzling to their own degree.

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 watch.

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 watch. It has a beautiful ice blue sunburst dial, 20mm leather strap, sharp markers, date window, and a 23-jewel, self winding automatic movement.

What I really like about the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time is that they don’t follow the traditional dress watch route. Most watch brands play it safe and design a dress watch with a minimal white dial and black leather band.

Seiko Presage Ice Blue Sunburst Cocktail Time SRPB43

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 watch… it adds to it.

There are plenty of great dress watches out there, but the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time will help you stand out in all the right ways, and at a relatively affordable price point.

Seiko Presage SRPB43 Cocktail Time Features:

  • Calibre 4935 automatic movement
  • Power reserve: 41 hours
  • Case size: 40.5mm diameter
  • Water resistance: 50m

Seiko SZSB012

The Seiko SZSB012 is a great alternative to the tough-to-find black dial SARB033 and cream dial SARB035.

Seiko Automatic SZSB012
$550.00 $370.00

This watch features a stainless steel case and bracelet with tri-fold push button release clasp.

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The Presage SRPB43 with ice blue sunburst dial is a handsome dress watch, but there are times you want something a bit more subtle. So if you’re looking for a versatile piece that’s still able to hold its own in dressier situations, you can’t go wrong with the SZSB013.

Seiko SZSB013 features:

  • Calibre 4R35 automatic movement
  • Self-winding, hand winding, hacking
  • Power reserve: 50 hours
  • Case size: 39.9mm diameter
  • Water resistance: 100m (suitable for swimming and snorkeling, but not diving)
  • Case back: exhibition

Seiko Presage SSA387 Cocktail Time “Golden Champagne”

Lastly, I had to include the SSA387 as an alternative to the original Cocktail Time.

Seiko Presage SSA387 Cocktail "Golden Champagne"

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.

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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.

Seiko PRESAGE Cocktail Time Golden Champagne Power Reserve SSA387

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

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So what exactly is Seiko’s Recraft line of watches? Essentially these are archive-inspired models with a funky vibe. Modern takes on retro style.

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.

Seiko RECRAFT Series SSC667
$350

The Seiko RECRAFT Series SSC667 is a quartz chronograph with stopwatch functionality, measuring at 45mm, with a stainless steel case and fixed bezel, blue dial, hardlex crystal, and silver tone luminous hands. Solar powered with 6-month power reserve.

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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.

Seiko Recraft Green Dial Automatic SNKM97
$250.00 $138.98

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.

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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 SNKP23

The SNKP23 is another great retro option featuring a rectangular steel case and stainless steel bracelet, and blue gradient dial with day date functionality.

Seiko Recraft Series SNKP23
$275.00 $136.98

Self-winding automatic with a power reserve of 41 hours.

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The blue gradient dial in particular complements the overall vintage aesthetic nicely. You could swap out the stainless steel bracelet for an aftermarket 21mm leather band to push the vintage look even further.

So if you’re looking for something funky and different, not classic, the SNKP23 is worth your consideration.

Seiko SNKP23 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

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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, fret not, there’s plenty of value packed into Seiko’s sub-$100 watches

Seiko 5 SNK Series (SNK803, SNK805, SNK807, SNK809)

When you consider the price-to-value ratio of the Seiko 5 line, you’re going to be shocked.

Seiko 5 SNK80* Series (SNK803, SNK805, SNK807, SNK809)
$143.00

An incredible budget automatic watch from Seiko, featuring a 37mm case with 11mm thickness, day/date functionality, and available in 4 different colorways with matching canvas strap.

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If you’re looking for the perfect outdoor watch, the Seiko 5 SNK809 is right up your alley.

The different model numbers, SNK803 / 5 / 7 / 9, seem to signify the alternative color options only. Each watch is solidly built with a stainless steel casing and Seiko’s exclusive Hardlex crystal.

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.

Seiko 5 (SNK803, SNK805, SNK807, SNK809)

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 watch-wearer.

But the two best things about this watch, in my opinion, are the automatic movement and day-date window. I’ve never seen these two features offered at such a low price.

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! So if this isn’t a budget watch packed with incredible value, then I don’t know what is.

Seiko 5 (SNK803, SNK805, SNK807, SNK809) features:

  • Calibre 7s26 automatic movement
  • Case size: 37mm diameter, 11mm thickness
  • Day / Date functionality
  • Water resistance: 30m

Seiko 5 Field Sports SRPG27 / Sports SNZG13

The Seiko 5 SRPG27 Field Sports model is a great alternative to the SNK series if you want a little more heft on the wrist. We previously recommended the SNZG13 which is perfect for a bigger wrist (it has a 42.5mm dial). The SRPG27 is essentially the SNZG13’s replacement, but at a more modest size (39.4mm).

It’s a mid-sized military field watch measuring in at 42mm, giving it a much more substantial wrist presence compared to the 37mm SNK line.

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 watches.

Overall, the SRPG27’s styling is simple and utilitarian with heritage details any military watch lover would appreciate.

The SNZG13, which is very similar to its replacement, the SRPG27.

You’re getting the same updates as the rest of the Seiko 5 line: 4R36 movement, 41-hour power reserve, 100m water resistance. Additionally, this has a day/date display.

Interestingly enough, the new Field watches have a smaller case, at 39.4mm, compared to the majority of the Seiko 5 line which measures 42.5mm. The lug-to-lug measurement is longer, however, at 48.1mm. The 42.5mm Seiko 5s’ lug-to-lug measures at 46mm.

Seiko 5 Field Sports SRPG27 Features:

  • 24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic movement
  • 41-hour power reserve
  • Case size: 39.4mm, 13.2mm thickness
  • Water resistance: 100m
  • Case back: exhibition

So which is the BEST Seiko watch for you?

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In this article, we’ve taken a look at some of Seiko’s best watches.

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.

Our personal favorites

So 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 watch, plus the general aesthetic and all-around style, we’ve nailed down our absolute favorites from this list:

Want a Seiko three-watch collection?

Here are my recommendations from this list: I have two different sets, depending on budget.

  1. Collection #1: Seiko SNK80* for everyday, SZSB012 for every occasion, SSA387 for your dressy occasions
  2. Collection #2: SRPD55 for everyday, SPB121 for when you want a little flash (casual and smart casual outfits), SBGM221 GMT for your smart casual / suit-and-tie days

Of course you can mix and match any model within these three-watch collections, but aesthetically, these would give you a good variety of looks and styles for a number of occasions.

And if you had to choose just one?

Well for me, personally, it would be the Grand Seiko SBGM221 GMT. It’s such a beautiful watch and the design detail is incredible.

I love how they implemented the GMT hour markers on the dial so elegantly, and the blue steeled GMT hand is subtle yet appreciated. It works as a dress watch, while at the same time, being the perfect watch for travel.

One watch that can handle it all, under $500?

The Seiko SZSB012 is what you’re looking for. It’s categorized as a dress watch, sure, but can easily be worn with jeans and a T-shirt.

It’s the perfect size, at just under 40mm. The oyster bracelet, polished bezel, dauphine hands, stick indices, and overall minimalist dial are clean and elegant. If you want only one watch, and you want it to be a Seiko, let it be this one.

At A Glance: Features and Specs of Every Seiko We Mention

We covered a lot of Seiko watches in this article! If you’re looking for a quick reference chart of each model’s features and specifications, we put together this table below.

MODELCASE SIZEMOVEMENTWATER RESISTANCE (DEPTH)POWER RESERVECASE BACKOTHER FEATURES
Seiko SPRD5542.5mm24 jewel Calibre 4R36100m41 hoursSee-through, Screw-downLumiBrite on hands and indices, unidirectional rotating bezel
Seiko SPRD5942.5mm24 jewel Calibre 4R36100m41 hoursSee-through, Screw-downLumiBrite on hands and indices, unidirectional rotating bezel
Seiko SKX00742mm21 jewel Calibre 7s26 automatic200m40 hoursScrew-downUnidirectional rotating bezel
Seiko SRPC07 “Orange Samurai”44mmCalibre 4R35 automatic200m41 hoursScrew-downSelf-winding, screw-down crown
Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB12139.5mm24 jewel Calibre 6R35 automatic200m70 hoursSee-through, screw-downRotating compass inner ring, screw-down crown, calfskin band
Seiko SARB01739mmCalibre 6R15 automatic200m50 hoursSteel, screw-downCompass on inner bezel with secondary crown to rotate
Seiko SNE549 PADI Solar43.5mmCalibre V157 Quartz200m10 mo. fully chargedScrew-downPowered by light, no battery change needed; unidirectional rotating bezel, screw-down crown
Seiko SNE435 PADI Solar43.5mmCalibre V157 Quartz200m10 mo. fully chargedScrew-downPhotovoltaic cell receives light and transforms to electricity to charge battery
Seiko Prospex SRPB51 Automatic44mm23 jewel Calibre 4R35 automatic200m41 hoursScrew-downSelf-winding, hacking
Seiko Prospex SRPD2542.4mm24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic200m41 hours Screw-downUnidirectional rotating bezel, day/date, screw-down crown
Grand Seiko Elegance SBGM221 GMT39.5mmCalibre 9S66 automatic GMT200m72 hoursSee-throughGMT functionality
Seiko Presage SRPB43 “Cocktail Time”40.5mm23 jewel Calibre 4R35 automatic50m41 hoursSee-through, screw-downBeautiful light blue sunburst dial
Seiko SZSB01241mm23 jewel Calibre 4R37 automatic100m41 hoursSee-through, screw-downBeveled stick indices and hands, antimagnetic
Seiko Presage SARB033 & SARB03538.4mm6R15 automatic100m50 hoursSee-through, screw-downSelf-winding, hand winding, hacking
Seiko Presage SSA387 Cocktail “Golden Champagne”40.5mm29 jewel Calibre 4R57 automatic50m41 hoursSee-through, screw-downSelf-winding, hand winding, 21,600 vibrations per hour
Seiko SSC667 Solar Chronograph43.5mmCalibre V175 Quartz Solar100m6 mo. fully chargedScrew-down24-hr reserve indicator, Tachymeter function
Seiko SNKM9743.5mm21 jewel Calibre 7S26 automatic50m41 hoursSee-through, screw-downDay/date display
Seiko SNKP2339.5mm21 jewel Calibre 7S26 automatic50m41 hoursSee-through, screw-downDay/date display
Seiko 5 SNK80*37mm23 jewel Calibre 7S26 automatic30m42 hoursSee-through, screw-downDay/date display, incredibly affordable
Seiko 5 Field Sports SRPG2739.4mm24 jewel Calibre 4R36 automatic100m41 hoursSee-through, screw-downDay/date display, 24-hour dial
Seiko 5 SNZG1342mm23 jewel Calibre 7S36C automatic100m40 hoursSee-through, screw-downStick indices on inner bezel, Arabic numerals on dial, 24-hour dial

Which Seiko watch is your personal favorite?

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Seiko has always been a well-respected watch brand in the watch community. However, what’s shocking is just how many esteemed timepieces Seiko has created in its lifetime. You can almost never go wrong with a Seiko.

They’ve created luxury watches, budget watches, dive watches, military style watches, dress watches. You need a specific type of watch; they’ve probably made it before.

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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What’s changed?
11/08/2022Updated featured watches (some models were discontinued) updated links, added more content
07/17/2021Updated broken links, outdated sections, and descriptive text
03/17/2020Original publish date