Author: Anne Bensons

Here at Exquisite Timepieces, we like the groovier things in life, like premium timepieces characterized by excellent craftsmanship. It’s no news that Seiko is among the world’s most prestigious and value-driven watch brands. Ask any watch lover, aficionado, collector, or even a diver to describe Seiko in two words, and your answer will certainly be a variant of the phrase; Terrific Value! 

From the Prospex line (made up of sport/tool watches) to the Presage line (made up of dress/retro timepieces), the brand’s catalog is massive and modestly priced. This is especially true of the Seiko SRP series, a reinterpretation of the brand’s 6309-series divers, nicknamed Turtle by Seiko’s fandom.

A collection marked by highly functional tool watches for the commoner that hogged the limelight with its cushion-cased design. Though a massive hit upon its release, the SRP77x did not sit well with many collectors as most found the large case size too substantial for their wrists leading to the release of the Mini Turtle a year later.

About the Seiko Mini Turtle

Towards the end of 2017, Seiko officially announced the release of three small Turtle variants. They were the SRPC35K1, SRPC39K1, and SRPC41K1, all of which are divers. Most people leave the count at four (including the SRPC37K1), but the SRPC35K1 and SRPC37K1 are essentially indistinguishable, save for the fitted straps.

The SRPC35K1 features a stainless steel bracelet, while the SRPC37K1 comes mounted on a two-piece silicone band. Originally intended for the dreaded Japanese Domestic Market, Seiko took a turn and made these watches available across the globe as well due to the high interest.

The nickname “Mini Turtle” was given to the trio by Seikodom. This was because of their oval case that resembled a turtle’s shell – a stark similitude to watches in the SRP series. The SRP series was a reinterpretation of Seiko’s third generation of professional divers (the venerable Seiko 6309) and featured mid-level divers.

Enthralled by the resurgence of the Seiko Cult Classic, collectors and enthusiasts made a run for the Turtle. However, the comparatively large case diameter didn’t sit well with many people, leading to the peculiar Mini Turtle/SRPC model release. 

The Mini Turtle, which lives in the Prospex (or Professional Specifications collection), is solidly built for use in the professional world. Being a dive watch, and a retro one at that, the Mini Turtles are great for regular people who loved the design of the regular Turtle models but balked at the size and longed for a scaled-down version. All variants are reliable watches best suited for casual or business-casual wear.

These stainless steel timepieces all run counter to their bulkier counterparts regarding size, dial design, and crown position at 3 o’clock. The case size is now 42.3mm (a 2mm drop from its predecessors), and the 4R36 automatic in-house caliber has now been replaced with the 4R35. In lieu of the day/date display at 3 o’clock is a date complication with a magnifying glass on the Hardlex crystal.

For their looks, the SRPC39K1 flaunts a matte blue dial and blue bezel. The SRPC35K1 (& SRPC37K1) has a black dial and bezel, while the SRPC41K1 (developed primarily for divers) is co-branded with PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and features a wavy black dial with Pepsi-style bezel and red minute hands. 

In summary, when compared to Its predecessor, the five most notable changes that can be observed are: smaller dimensions, relocation of the crown, elimination of the day complication, addition of the magnifying glass, and use of the 4R35 caliber movement.

Seiko Mini Turtle History & Origin

Since the release of Seiko’s (and Japan’s) first dive watch (the 62MAS-010) in July 1965, the brand has continued to introduce divers that topple the Swiss watch industry earning itself a top spot in the world of watchmaking. 

Seiko’s invasion of the world of divers has been innovative, and the SRP collection is one of such outstanding inventions. The line boasts a historic design that continues to charm collectors and enthusiasts alike with its warm retro vibes.

Coming as a reinterpretation of Seiko’s third generation of professional divers (the venerable 6309), the roots of the present-day Seiko Turtle stretch back to 1976 with the debut of the 6306 and 6309 models. The ref. 6306-7000/1 was released for the Japanese Domestic Market only, while the 6309-7040/9 was the worldwide version.

Modeled by Seiko’s master watch designer, Ikuo Tokunaga, the collection was a follow-up model to the ref. 6105, the very first cushion-shaped case watch from Seiko. 

However, unlike the ref. 6105, the 6306, and 6309 models were dubbed ‘Seiko Turtle’ because they were considerably more globular and symmetrical. The timepieces came with a smooth-edged case that protruded on both sides of its crown, giving them the appearance of a turtle’s shell when viewed from above.

With a depth rating of 150 meters, the 6306 and 6309 references offered extraordinary durability that could satisfy any recreational diver’s demands and be used for decades without worrying about servicing. With a diameter of 45mm, the watch might have been overly big then, but the cushioned case and crown at 4 o’clock made it surprisingly comfortable on the wrist.

Even though the JDM models were more alluring (and expensive) since they featured more jewels, hacking movement, and an English/Kanji day-date wheel, the ref. 6309 largely ruled Seiko’s entry-level diver’s segment until 1988, when the line was discontinued.

To the ecstasy of vintage Seiko connoisseurs, the brand re-launched the SRP series in the Prospex line in 2016 after over 20 years of dormancy. The new Turtle models were nearly identical to the 6309 models and featured the historic trait of the Turtle line; a cushion-shaped oval case and a crown at the 4 o’clock position, but now had an upgraded water resistance rating of 200 meters.

With a case size of 44.3 mm (the “King Turtle” variants measure 45 mm), the new Turtles were a bit cumbersome for people with smaller wrists, leading to a downscale version/three smaller variants measuring 42.3 mm in diameter. The new variants were instantly dubbed Mini Turtle since they were smaller, more compact, sleek, and elegant, giving everyone a chance to strap on a piece of history.

Seiko Mini Turtle Review

Case

Like its predecessors, the Mini Turtle sports a cushion-shaped, oval case. The 316L stainless steel case measures 42.3mm in diameter and has beautifully curved, polished sides with a very high mirror finish. 

For the height, it is 13mm thick, with nice 22mm lugs that are detached from the flange revealing the attachment between the bezel and mid-case where the strap passes through. 

Unlike its predecessors, all the versions of the Mini Turtle have unguarded crowns at 3 o’clock (rather than 4), which screw down firmly for excellent water resistance. Even though some dive watch enthusiasts consider the position of the crown a downside, it works great. 

The top of the case features a consistent circular brushing giving it a sunburst sheen, while the case back has the standard Katsushika Great Wave by Hokusai etched in the middle. In addition, you’ll find the Prospex logo, Diver’s Watch 200m, Stainless Steel, and 4R35 inscribed around the edges of the case back.

Dial

The dial is everything you’d expect from Seiko; clean, ultra-legible, highly contrasting with precise execution of all the details. 

The Turtle’s emblematic look, which has demonstrated its effectiveness for decades, can be recognized instantly. Even though the layout of the dial is relatively unchanged from earlier iterations of the Mini Turtle, the polished steel applied indices for the Mini-turtle are exclusive only to its variants. 

Rather than the regular printed or applied circular indices with some form of a triangle at the 12 o’clock position, the Mini Turtles’ are somewhat rectangular with rounded ends and syringe extension markers at all the cardinal points (6,9, and 12 positions).

Like most Seiko divers, the dials feature a charmingly minimalistic and elegant look with well-executed lettering. SEIKO can be seen at the 12 o’clock position, and right down at 6 o’clock is the Prospex “X” logo, followed by the words AUTOMATIC and DIVER’S 200m beneath the logo.

Again the words ‘Made in Japan’ can be seen across the edge of the dial, flaunting the noble quality and superiority of the timepiece. The brilliantly new textured dials are all about legibility and feature an insane amount of Seiko’s famed proprietary LumiBrite lume, applied generously on the hands and indices.

Unlike its predecessor, the day/date display at three has been given up for a simple date display with circular cyclops for ease of reading.

Size and Proportions

The size and proportions of the Mini Turtles are where a major change from its predecessor has occurred. The core of the case design has not changed, but it has gained a more defined shape, with curves and flow, getting rid of the bulky feel the previous models had.

The diameter is now 42.3mm though it used to be 44mm to 45mm in the past generations; thus, a 2mm decrease compared to previous Turtles. The thickness has remained at the same level (13 mm), and the lug-to-lug measurement is at 43mm – which is thinner than its predecessor’s and very compact for its size, making the Mini Turtle suitable for most wrists.

It weighs approximately 154 grams, roughly 40 grams less than the weight of the Turtle SRP77x on a bracelet, so it can be worn for several hours without a bulky feel.

Movement

The Mini Turtle is equipped with the 4R35 caliber movement, a remarkable upgrade from the popular 7S26 movement, which did not offer the expedient hacking and hand-winding function. Beating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, the Seiko’s in-house caliber 4R35 automatic movement contains 23 jewels and features a power reserve of approximately 40 hours.

The elevated quality of the Mini Turtle transcends beyond aesthetics to mechanical properties, as the 4R35 boasts noteworthy robustness from Seiko’s Diashock anti-shock system. The proprietary Diashock technique entails a spring-loaded mounting system that supports the balance wheel and absorbs impact, keeping the timepiece highly accurate and reliable for decades. Overall the mid-tier movement is solid, has an accuracy rating of -35/+45 seconds per day, and should supply years of service-free usage.

Crystal/Bezel

You guessed it right! Protecting the dial is Seiko’s proprietary impact-resistant Hardlex crystal. The flat Hardlex crystal comes with a very thin magnifier (cyclops) over the date display at 3 o’clock. Despite being relatively affordable, the watch glass offers impressive resistance to scratches and cracks compared to mineral crystals.

No kidding, it will survive great impact – even smashing against a rock. Moving forward, the aluminum bezel insert of the Mini Turtle is spectacular. It is fully indexed, making it suitable underwater and for timing all sorts of activities. 

The bezel is unidirectional and rotates at 120 clicks per round (anti-clockwise). It has thickset white numbering in intervals of 10 with white minute marks around, helping the wearer track time. A recessed luminous pip can be seen above the 12 o’clock position as a reversed triangle. Coloring for the bezel differs depending on the variant, but all are very well expressed and finished by Seiko.

Strap Options

The Mini Turtle is a dive watch, and depending on the model, you can choose any great strap that offers you a comfortable fit. Purists will tell you no other strap is ideal for a diver’s watch except metal, rubber, or nylon, but this is no rule.

The 42.3mm width of the case and a short lug-to-lug distance is precisely calculated to keep the Mini Turtle firmly proportioned on the wrist, so any curved end watch strap that can provide an ergonomically comfortable fit is ideal.

The use of color on the Mini Turtle is also well-balanced, which means you can choose any simple strap that is great for casual/ business casual environments depending on the model.

Bracelets, suede, perlon, NATO, and rubber straps are great options, but straps that are resistant to dust, odors, UV radiations, and sweat are highly recommended.

Top 3 Alternatives To The Seiko Mini Turtle

Seiko Prospex King Turtle SRPE03K1 

Right up the top of the list is none other than the King Turtle SRPE03K1 with a similar bold design to the Mini Turtle. The cushion-shaped King Turtle is a particular gem in the SRP series, adored by many diving enthusiasts.

It has everything we loved in the original Turtle; 200 meters of water resistance, a screw-down crown, a day-date complication, a robust in-house movement, and a fully marked bezel. But it goes further to add almost everything the original Turtle left to be desired; a Sapphire crystal, hacking and hand-winding movement, and a bezel action that feels smoother and sturdier.

The watch is equipped with the in-house caliber 4R36 with 24 jewels and provides approximately 41 hours of power reserve. Though slightly bigger than the Mini Turtle at 45mm in diameter (hence the nickname), the King Turtle does not feel oversized on the wrist thanks to its relatively short lugs of approximately 22mm.

Expect to spend around 600 USD for a new piece, as seen on Amazon. It’s more expensive than the Mini Turtle, yes, but the Sapphire crystal upgrade is well worth the premium.

Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba Auto H82335131

Popular for unique aviation-inspired watches, Hamilton stands out for constantly consolidating Swiss watchmaking traditions with classic American styles. Measuring 40mm in diameter, the Navy Scuba Auto from Hamilton is a perfect alternative to the Mini Turtle. From the case to the bracelet, bezel, and dial, this model is distinct and well-designed. 

Just like the Mini Turtle, it features a clean dial with large hands — the minute hands even have an arrow shape at its tips that is distinguishable thanks to its striking red color. The dial is protected by Sapphire crystal and is water resistant up to 100m. It is equipped with Hamilton’s H-10 caliber, a three-hand movement with a power reserve of up to 80 hours.

You can get it here for 650 USD or around 400 USD for the quartz variation (ref: H82201131).

Dan Henry 1970

Notable in the vast watch world for creating vintage-inspired timepieces is Dan Henry, a watch brand that was created by an avid watch collector. If you absolutely want to replace the Mini Turtle with a great affordable alternative, the Dan Henry 1970 is the perfect compromise because of its vintage and sporty look. 

The case measures 40mm with a lug-to-lug width of 22mm. The matte dial is all about legibility with a 60-min inner rotating bezel and a welcome addition of applied hours indices.

It is equipped with the caliber NH35 from Seiko, a reliable but affordable movement that offers a decent power reserve of approximately 41 hours. It is water resistant to a depth of 200 meters and goes for 290 USD on Dan Henry’s official website.

Conclusion

Once again, Seiko adheres to its proven recipe: maintaining the great points and never breaking the codes. While there are great alternatives to the Mini Turtle out there, you’ll hardly find an entry-level timepiece that offers such profound consistency in its design and quality.

The watch has been at the end of the accessible divers, and there are tangible reasons for this. The overall execution is superb, with outstanding consistency in the build and form. The accuracy of the assembly, the superiority of the parts used in all areas, robustness of the movement, comfort, and compactness of the bracelet and clasp… 

There’s no denying that everything has been considered with much attention. As for the price, the Mini Turtles have been discontinued (so hold tight to yours if you got one), making them more expensive now. Expect to spend around 370 USD for a new piece on Amazon.

Seiko is amongst the few watch manufacturers that will always exceed your expectations when it comes to churning out iconic timepieces. As befitting its name, the Alpinist collection from Seiko offers a plethora of robustly constructed sports watches that were originally crafted to serve as a reliable reference for Japanese mountain climbers and currently boast the same spirit as the people it was made for.

Kintaro Hattori, Seiko’s founder, had the vision to be one step ahead of the rest by creating accessible watches with great quality at prolific rates and launched the very first Alpinist in 1959, which turned out to be Seiko’s first real attempt at a sports watch. Little did he know that the robust timepiece would soon become one of the greatest legends among the Seika lovers’ community.

Since the Seiko Alpinist line was established with mountain climbing in mind, the construction is robust and bears a no-nonsense appeal of a tool watch. And if you’re thinking that since it was meant for mountain men in the 1960s it would look like a tank, you are absolutely wrong my friend, as Seiko has released a series of reinterpretations of the Alpinist with distinctive 21st century designs that add elegance and class, as well as historical appeal.

History & Origin Of The Seiko Alpinist: The First Alpinist

The story of the Seiko Alpinist starts way back in 1959 with the Laurel Alpinist; a watch that was built for Japanese mountaineers known as Yama-Otoko (which means mountain men). The Laurel Alpinist featured highly legible luminous hands, a waterproof screw-down case back with a display heavily protected by a domed acrylic glass that made it tough enough to withstand dust and specks of dirt.

Although it had a non-sporty look, it was powered by the robust Seikosha manual movement with Diashock shock protection and 17 jewels, that boasted great accuracy and shock resistance for its time. The launch of the Laurel Alpinist marked the entry of Seiko into the sports watch arena and blazed the trail for many iconic watches (including timing devices for sports, stopwatches, and diver’s watches) to follow.

Still desiring to meet the needs of the mountain climbers who traversed dangerous topographies for leisure and work, Seiko introduced a more rugged version of the Alpinist called the Alpinist Champion in 1963 which was a redesigned version of the Laurel Alpinist and sported a light-colored centered dial that had a darker surrounding in addition to square-shaped, applied hour markers.

The resurrection of the Seiko Alpinist in the 1990s

From 1963 to 1992 the Alpinist seemed to have been buried in the canals of time, but after 30 whole years, the Red Alpinist hit the Japanese market under the Prospex line and gained a lot of popularity thanks to its unique features. Unlike its predecessors, the watch had a new dial design with luminous cathedral hands in a display that was no longer covered with acrylic glass but with Sapphlex; which happens to be a mineral glass with a layer of sapphire.

It now featured a rotatable bezel with compass markings to help the mountain climbers with orientation in the open terrain (depending on your longitudinal hemisphere, you can easily determine the northern or southern part of the globe with any timepiece but Seiko goes further with the Alpinist and now enables wearers to read other approximate compass directions correctly on the dial), a date display neatly located under a magnifying lens at 3 o’clock and the highly regarded Seiko 4S15 Hi-Beat automatic movement which is hackable and also supports hand winding.

Nicknamed Red Alpinist by fans of Seiko because of the word “Alpinist” written in red just above 6 o’clock, the model was released with three dial color alternatives, namely black, cream, and emerald green. It remains well-loved to this day.

Seiko Alpinist SARB 2006 series

Again in 2003 the Alpinist 8F56 was introduced into the market and stands as one of the rarest models in the Alpinist collection that was fitted with the highly revered 8F56 super-accurate quartz movement. It was water resistant up to 100 meters, featuring a perpetual calendar and a 10-year lithium battery. After it, the SARB Alpinist came to the market in 2006.

It took its design cues from the Red Alpinist but was fitted with the caliber 6R15 Automatic Diashock 23 Jewel movement with a 50-hour power reserve and 200 meters of water resistance. The red “Alpinist” above 6 o’clock has now been replaced by the word “Automatic” written in white, the crystal is now Sapphire, and the date display is no longer magnified.

The SARB013 (cream dial), SARB015 (black dial), and SARB017 (green dial) became an instant success upon introduction and are the longest-running models. So while the core character of the Alpinist line has remained unchanged, the styles and designs have evolved over time, and it has continued to gain popularity to date because of its elegance and versatility.

Remakes and Reinterpretations

From the first generation of vintage Seiko Alpinist models that were released in 1959, all the way to the latest iteration of special editions from the iconic line in 2021, Seiko Alpinist keeps getting re-born in a re-creation that characterizes the spirit of the very first timepiece that has evolved over six decades, and now comes with a more current automatic movement as part of Seiko’s professional specifications “Prospex” line.

The Alpinist Re-Creation

On the occasion of the company’s 140th anniversary last year, the brand launched a modern recreation of the original ‘Alpinist’ with inspiration from the Seiko Laurel Alpinist. As with the 1959 original, the design is simple and practical though more recognizable, with Lumi Brite on the dial and hands and a full 100 meters of water resistance.

The Alpinist Re-Creation is now limited to only 1,959 pieces available globally and is now fitted with the ultramodern automatic Seiko slim cal. 6L35, a more accurate movement with 28,800 vph that offers 45 hours of power reserve. Since it was meant to be a reliable timepiece for Japanese ‘Yama-otoko’ mountain men, the Alpinist Re-Creation features a protective leather bracelet to protect the wearer from the effects of the cold case black metal on the skin when scaling high altitudes.

I’m no scaler of the Alps but I consider this very thoughtful. In addition to these added features, the case is slightly larger with a diameter measuring 36.6 mm (The Seiko Laurel Alpinist measured 35mm in diameter, 41mm Lug to Lug, 11mm Height, and 18mm Lug Width). The date display is now at the 4 o’clock position and the watch boasts a domed sapphire crystal.

The Re-Interpretation

The Re-Interpretation was simultaneously released with the Re-Creation by Seiko in 2021. Also marking a return to the simple 1959 Alpinist model, this model was introduced on the occasion of Seiko’s 140th anniversary under the name, ‘1959 Alpinist Re-Interpretation’ and comes in three variants; the creme (SPB241J1), green (SPB245J1), and gray (SPB243J1) dial.

The Alpinist Re-Creation and Re-Interpretation may look the same, but on closer inspection, you would find that the latter features a minute ring with a subtle sunburst effect, while the date display can be seen at 3 o’clock and not the 4 o’clock position like the former.

The case differs in measurement at a diameter of 38 mm, while a flat sapphire crystal (not domed) protects the dial that features stylized triangles resembling mountain peaks at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock, with dauphine-style hands, the Seiko Prospex logo, and the Automatic wordmark neatly displayed in a retro script typeface.

The cathedral shaped hands remained in all variants in addition to the presence of the cyclops. Visible beneath the see-through case back of the 1959 Alpinist Modern Re-interpretation, is the automatic caliber 6R35 with an accuracy of -15/+25 seconds per day and a power reserve of 70 hours.

What Makes The Seiko Alpinist So Special?

The Seiko Alpinist brand possesses a history. Ask most Seiko collectors and they’ll tell you they own an Alpinist. One amazing thing about the Alpinist line is that Seiko ensures that there is something for every collector. The robust timepiece is one of the favorite collectibles among Seiko fans and is known for its distinctive and sturdy design for adventure seekers in the water, in the sky, on land, and for businessmen.

It is popular because it is versatile and can literally be worn in just about any situation whether professional or casual outings. From the start, the Seiko Alpinist was well received and, over the next six decades, its reputation extended beyond the Japanese and Asian markets for which the collection was first intended with an unexpected cult forming around the model.

Interestingly in 1959, the Alpinist was the first Seiko watch ever produced with ‘sports’ in mind and it blazed a trail that led to the production of various iconic timepieces for sports. The Seiko Alpinist is far from being the perfect tool or sports watch but it is special and over the years it has retained its no-nonsense appeal and originality that exceeds the price tag the price it comes with.

Without swaying you further, here are some specs of the Seiko Alpinist brand that makes it spectacular.

• Unquestionable quality and sturdiness.
• Numerous rare collector’s pieces that come at a very affordable rate.
• Great overall finishing.
• Versatility tool watch that can be worn anywhere.
• Compact with a wearable proportion that conforms to various wrist sizes.
• Robust shock-protected in-house movement with updated automatic movements in the re-released editions.
• Large selection of model variations
• Crown guard & screw down movement crown with nice design
• Date display.
• Affordable watch for connoisseurs.

Is the Seiko Alpinist the right watch for you?

The best reason to buy a Seiko Alpinist is that you want to use the function it comes with. One good thing about the Seiko Alpinist is that it has a personality and a story that dates back to the 1950s and there is one for everybody. Since it was originally designed with durability and strength in mind, it has remained very robust and versatile.

Apart from the Alpinist taking up an unusual spot in Seiko’s wide range of models, it comes with unique designs that are subtle and quirky so much that it is really difficult to find an alternative that can perfectly displace it.

The Alpinist is a timepiece with personality and a story, making it perfect for collectors and enthusiasts. It’s got an unusual place in Seiko’s wider range, with design elements not found in other models as well as historical appeal as the brand’s first sports watch line.

When it comes to functionality, the watch is waterproof and sturdy, the dial is legible and clear with bright indices and liberally applied luminous material, and features a rotating bezel which makes it useful underwater, on land, and in the skies.

Though it has been recreated into a more elegant and modern piece with borrowed features from contemporary dress and pilot watches that offers it modern vibes than that of a lackluster tool meant for scalers of the Alps, I’m not sure the Alpinist could ever quite be a formal dress watch, but apart from collectors and enthusiasts, the Alpinist would serve excellently as a day-in and day-out watch for casual or business outings.

At the core, it has remained an outdoor beater watch fitting for swimming/ diving (thanks to its water resistance rating of 200m), everyday activities (due to its small size and restrained design), and hiking, camping, or mountain climbing because of its compass bezel. Plus the new models feature an upgraded in-house movement that offers an impressive 70-hour power reserve with premium features like sapphire crystal.

Seiko Alpinist Models:

Seiko Laurel Alpinist

The Laurel Alpinist marked Seiko’s entry into the sports watch arena and dates back to 1959 (many sources conflict on the production date but according to Seiko, 1959 was the year). Since it was the first watch made for Japanese mountaineers, it was elegant, yet rugged and superbly functional. Offered with either a black or cream dial and a sturdy leather Bund strap, the Laurel Alpinist is now amongst the rarest and most sought after of the Alpinist watches among Japanese collectors.

The case measures 35mm (this might seem small by today’s standards but it was a decent size at that time), with a domed acrylic glass protecting the display. The dial features luminous dauphine-shaped hands and triangular index markers at 3,6,9 and 12 o’clock. It was powered by a manual movement, marked Seikosha that beats at a relaxed 18,000 BPH with Diashock shock protection and 17 jewels.

Seiko Champion Alpinist 850

The second generation Alpinists after the Laurel Alpinist, referred to as the Champion Alpinist 850, were launched in 1963. The core design remained the same but got a subtle makeover. The case still measures 35mm and comes in a chrome-plated or gold-plated stainless steel case, but the dial has the word “waterproof” in addition to Alpinist written on it with trapezoidal lumed indexes, narrow lines separate the face into five-minute segments, while the minute markers are moved to the outer periphery of the dial.

Under the Champion series the J13043, the J13049, and the J13079 were also released and though many models were created, some were immediately recognizable because of their sporty understated dial design with applied bar indices (such as the 85899 model that was released in 1964 which was just a gold version of the Champion series), and all 3 models were called Champion 850 Alpinists since they were powered by the caliber 850, rated at 18,000bph with Diashock protection. Later versions used the 851 movement.

Red Alpinist

After thirty years, the Red Alpinist was released under the Prospex line. It was originally designed for the Japanese and Southeast Asian markets and was nicknamed Red Alpinist by Seiko fans because of the word “Alpinist” written in red above 6 o’clock next to a mountain picture. Seiko’s long-time in-house designer Shigeo Sakai, Seiko’s famous in-house designer, fitted the Red Alpinist with a new dial design that changed the appearance of the timepiece fundamentally from the previous ones.

The display is now protected with Sapphlex crystal, a crown at 3 which is for setting the time and date, and a crown at 4 for rotating the compass ring, and the date display, located under a cyclops date window magnification lens at 3 o’clock, is new. Additionally, a unique inner bezel compass has markings meant to help the “men of the mountains” or “Yama-Otoko” with orientation in the open terrain.

The Red Alpinist uses the 4S15 caliber, which is hackable and also supports hand winding. Model numbers are SCVF005 (black variant with small triangles serving as indices), SCVF007 (cream dial with the hour markers alternating between Arabic numerals and pointed indices), and SCVF009 (a popular green variant that is highly sought after by collectors). It was discontinued after two years despite being a sought-after watch.

SSASS LIMITED EDITION ALPINIST

The SSASS or Seven Summits Actions for Sustainable Society Alpinist edition was released in 2003 and is a very very rare Seiko Alpinist model. Paying tribute to Japanese-American mountaineer, Ken Noguchi and his foundation (SSASS) that single-handedly collected tonnes (seven to eight tonnes precisely) of garbage from Everest left behind by other mountain climbers and their teams and disposed of them properly, the limited 2003 SSASS Alpinist is beautifully crafted with comes with a teal dial depicting the skies that remind collectors of respect, admiration and service to humanity. It is limited to just 500 pieces and is powered by an 8F56 high-accuracy quartz. It remains revered among collectors today.

SARB SERIES

In 2006, the SARB series was launched with three watches under it; the SARB013, SARB015, and SARB017. All three were an immediate success, especially the SARB017 (more on this later) which soon gained a cult following thanks to its luxurious design and impeccable elegance that continues to leave its wearers and on-lookers constantly mesmerized with its green dial.

All the watches in the SARB series are based on the in-house 6R15 caliber; a robust and reliable automatic movement equipped with a hacking function and manual winding with 23 Jewels, that runs at 21,600 beats per hour, and offers 50 hours of power reserve.

The first SARB watches appeared in Seiko’s 2006 catalog (second volume), and although it was predominantly aimed at the Japanese market, it became popular across numerous markets across the globe and even though the line was discontinued a few years ago, the SARB033, SARB035, the Alpinist SARB017, and the Cocktail Time SARB065, continues to be highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors from the watch community.

SEIKO SPB089 6R15-04K0

In late February 2019, Seiko released the SPB089 to commemorate 60 years of the Brand’s sports watch production. Limited to just 1959 pieces, the SPB089 also known as Blue Alpinist heavily resembles the popular green SARB017, and would be perfect for people who loved the SARB017’s overall design but didn’t find the green attractive. The dial is sunburst blue, the stainless steel case measures 38mm with a sapphire crystal.

The watch size is a perfect measurement for small and medium-sized wrists, and the timepiece features a vintage-style leather strap. The cardinal directions are easily noticeable with the north being highlighted in red. The case back features the standard Seiko markings, in addition to the Alpinist logo, “Limited Edition,” and the individual piece number out of 1959 written in large print. Apart from the dial change and movement (which is the 6R15 automatic movement), it is a true reproduction of the SARB series.

Current Prospex Alpinist

The Prospex Alpinist is one of the most desirable Alpinist watches that have a flair of sophistication and elegance making it versatile and wearable for any situation at all. After the Red Alpinist model, all the Alpinist watches that followed have been sold as part of the Prospex collection and from 2020 the SPB series come with the Prospex logo on their dials. The designs are largely the same and date back to the 1959 model but the caliber 6R35 now offers a power reserve of 70 hours.

The cyclops lens that had disappeared for a while also makes a comeback. The case measures 39.5 mm in diameter and in addition to the dial colors from the previous generations, the 2020 SPB Alpinist comes in a variant that features a brown sunburst dial (SPB209J1), and one that features a glacier-blue dial (SPB199J1). Prices for standard models like the SPB209J1 with a brown sunburst dial fall around 850 USD. For limited models, however, the prices go up to a little over 1,000 USD.

Baby Alpinist

The Baby Alpinist just happens to be another SPB model launched in the year 2020, but updated in 2021. In contrast to its other Seiko Alpinist models, it has a smaller case profile at 38mm and lacks an internal bezel which means it lacks the additional crown at 4 o’clock.

The dial design remains the same as the larger models but has a more delicate texture and an elegant gradient as can be seen in its four variants; SPB155/SBDC115 (green dial), SPB159/SBDC119 (black dial), SPB157/SBDC117 (blue dial), and SPB21 (two-toned dial), offering excellent versatility and value propositions for those seeking a sleek everyday watch from the Alpinist line.

The water resistance rating is 200 meters and the Baby Alpinist is fitted with the robust 6R35 movement which is reliable and easy to service. The movement that beats at 21,600 BPH (3Hz), has 24 jewels, and a generous power reserve of 70 hours (an upgrade from the 6R15 movement which had a 50-hour power reserve).

Alpinist in SKX Style

The Alpinist line has gone through various revisions over the years but has always stayed true to the original model from the 1960s. However, in 2009, Seiko released an Alpinist variation that differed significantly from the traditional Alpinist model. Available under the reference SARB059 that features a green dial and reference SARB061 with a black dial, the SKX-styled Alpinist model was introduced for the Japanese market.

Rated at 200m water resistance the case is the 42-mm case from the SKX diving watches and is finely polished with a crown at 4 o’clock as well as a rotating bezel that now has beveled edges, a 60-minute scale, and compass markings. The hands are not the cathedral-styled hands in the traditional Alpinist watches but sword hands, and all the variants have luminous silver-outlined hands, minute bars, and black-framed hands. The watch is powered by the 6R15; a 23 Jewel automatic movement that Seiko claims has an accuracy rating of -15/+25 seconds per day under normal temperature conditions ( 5 to 35 degrees C).

Seiko SARB017: The Iconic Alpinist Watch

To not write about an iconic timepiece that amassed a huge cult-like fan following despite being released alongside other timepieces, would be sacrilegious. The Seiko SARB017 is part of the Seiko SARB collection. Let’s take a quick look at some of its features.

The Case

The Seiko Alpinist features a strong case made of stainless steel that measures a wearable 38mm in diameter with two screw-down crowns. With a thickness of 12mm, lug-to-lug width of 46mm, and a perfect lug width of 20mm, the case is between graceful ( add to that an elegant combination of polished and brushed elements) and hefty, and though crafted as a field watch, it has turned out to be versatile enough for any situation at all, with a plethora of bracelets and leather straps dedicated to it by other brands.

The back of the timepiece features a solid stainless steel case back, screwed down to safeguard the movement inside. Protecting the display is a high-quality sapphire crystal glass; one of the hardest substances with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, only second to diamond which rates the highest at 10, making the timepiece greatly optimized outdoor adventures from the peak of the mountains to the depths of the sea.

The Dial

The Seiko SARB017 owes a lot to its mesmerizing emerald green dial for its popularity. The first thing anyone notices when they look at a watch is its dial and this one is an object of fascination that reveals the story of the Alpinist line each time the classy lumed cathedral type hands sweep across the green background. The dial is clean and doesn’t have a lot of inscriptions on it; only a gold Seiko logo at 12 o’clock, and ‘Automatic’, ‘DIASHOCK 23 JEWELS’, and ’20BAR’ at 6 o’clock, giving the wearer all the information needed about the timepiece.

The gold hands have a generous amount of luminous material, making them legible in the light as it is in the dark. There is a discreet date display at the 3 o’clock position, a useful detail – balanced by the gold-toned applied even hour Arabic numerals that alternate with odd hour triangle markers, giving the watch a peculiar look among many Seiko timepieces.

The Movement

The Seiko SARB017 is fitted with the in-house Calibre 6R15, and this movement which was introduced by Seiko for the first time in 2006 is one of the points in favor of the Seiko Alpinist. Paired with a power reserve of approximately 50 hours, the self-winding movement with 23 jewels, an integrated Diashock system, and a Diaflex mainspring has an accuracy of +25/-15 seconds per day. The movement beats at a frequency of 21,600 BPH and is designed to be less susceptible to damage from shock or impact. Its manual winding and hacking capabilities allow the wearer to set the time more accurately.

The Strap

The strap of the Seiko SARB017 seems to be the only issue among enthusiasts. It seems that the classic brown leather is stiffer than it ought to be and comes with a bit of a pseudo crocodile pattern that doesn’t sit well with a lot of people, but there are currently a bunch of elegant options out there that can perfectly compliment the wristwatch’s head and it’s universal 20mm lug width makes replacement easy so this isn’t much of a problem. That aside, the wide bracelet with a thickness of about 13mm is a major reason why the 38mm stainless steel case wears more prominently than it should, and it is bold, masculine, and instantly recognizable.

Seiko SARB017 Pros;

• An extremely versatile timepiece with attributes of field and dress watch that can be used for any occasion.
• Great value for money with impressive quality and build.
• The Alpinist line is steeped in history which makes it very desirable and interesting.
• 200 meters of water resistance.
• Beautiful timeless design from every angle with great overall finishing.
• Mesmerizing green dial.
• Luminous hands.
• Date display.

Seiko SARB017 Cons;

• The leather strap is uncomfortable and stiff and has a plastic feel
• Sapphire Crystal lacks an anti-reflective coating.
• A case size of 38mm may not be suitable for people with large wrists.
• Discontinued.

Alternatives to the Seiko Alpinist

It is hard to find a good alternative to the Seiko Alpinist (though not impossible) since the Alpinist has its unique design language, and sings a song to the heart of collectors that no other watch can, but take a look at some watches that come close.

1. Seiko Prospex SRPA77J1

The Seiko Prospex SRPA77J1 is intentionally straightforward, simple, and no-nonsense, making it a tool watch in every sense. From the dial to the strap and buckle, it is honestly a durable timepiece coupled with practicality and an unmatched history written by Seiko over the years on the grounds of affordability.

With a case diameter of 42mm and a thickness of 13mm, the SRPA77J1 is a classic made especially for any person challenging the vast earth and is within reach of people with an interest in mechanical watches with a price tag of less than 500 USD.

It is handsome, straightforward, and legible with a green dial, luminous hands and markers, a date display, a see-through case back, and 100 meters of water resistance. Made to offer tremendous performance, the Caliber 4R35, a 23 Jewel movement beating at 21,600 BPH provides approximately 40 hours of power reserve.

2. Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical

This quintessential field watch is rugged yet refined, and like the Seiko Alpinist was made to support the adventurer every step of the way. The case is 38mm wide in steel with a black dial, and the dial design is free from obscurity, giving it an appeal to adventurists who want a solid, traditional, and sturdy timepiece without any unnecessary decorative frills.

The highly legible matte black dial features silver-tone luminescent hands and crisply printed white Arabic hour markers and a 60-minute track around the periphery. The display is protected with the desired scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the watch comes with a standard olive green NATO strap and stainless steel buckle that secures it comfortably to the wrist. The H-50 in-house mechanical hand-winding movement provides an impressive 80 hours of power reserve.

3. BOLDR Venture Field

The Boldr venture field watches put Boldr in the spotlight and have become a desired timepiece for many collectors. Coming in a 38mm angular titanium case, the classic field watch is sleek and bridges the gap between vintage watches and 21st century timepieces excellently well. The watch wears well on the wrist at 12mm thick and is incredibly light thanks to its titanium case.

Made for every adventurer, the venture field watch comes with a solid water resistance of 200 meters so you can swim and dive with it. It also features a flat sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, and is powered by Seiko’s NH35 automatic movement that has 24 jewels, beats at 21,600 BPH, and offers a 41-hour power reserve.

Conclusion

Seiko has been in business since 1881 and has been recognized for making great affordable timepieces loved by millions across the globe. The Alpinist is no exception with features that can seldom be found in other watches for the price it comes with. There’s great value in the Seiko Alpinist timepieces, and prices for a new Seiko Alpinist range from around 450 USD to 2,700 USD.

On the lower end of this price range, you’ll find the SPB models, while the current Prospex models (the reinterpretations and recreations) have prices that start from around 700 USD. With a bit of luck, you might find a “Red Alpinist” from the 1990s, or other vintage references like the Alpinist Champion but be prepared to spend from 1,000 USD up.

The most expensive Alpinist however is the Alpinist Re-Creation SJE085J1 that dates back to 1959 and was introduced in 2021. The watch is limited to just 1,959 pieces and sells for approximately 2,700 USD, and if you’re a thrifty shopper, you may find it at a significant discount. Overall I think the Alpinist is definitely a watch worth adding to your collection!

Imagine the thrill of standing at the edge of an ancient citadel, gazing out over a sprawling metropolis as the sun sets behind distant mountains. Or picture yourself sipping espresso in a quaint café along a cobblestone street in a European city you’ve never visited before. 

These moments are the essence of travel. But as we go on exploring new cultures, we all need that one watch that will serve as our trusted companion, ensuring we never miss an appointment, a cultural event, or a flight back home. 

Fortunately, a GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) watch comes to the rescue. It is a type of timepiece that allows us to track multiple timezones simultaneously and has the power to transport us, not just through minutes and hours, but across oceans and continents.

These time-telling devices are valuable tools for travelers, professionals, and anyone who needs to stay connected with the world across different timezones.

Whether you’re an adventurer at heart, a globetrotter, or simply someone who cherishes the moments that make life unforgettable, here are 10 of the very best Seiko GMT watches that will not only mark hours but etch memories.

About Seiko GMT Watches

The concept of GMT watches can be traced back to the development of global travel, aviation, and the need for accurate timekeeping across different timezones.

For Seiko, the journey into the GMT realm began in 1964 with the launch of its first World Time watch – the  6217-7000 (MASWT). The World Timer could display the time in multiple timezones simultaneously and was powered by an automatic movement: the caliber 6217A. Its internal rotating bezel displayed 24 timezones, and the GMT hand came in either black or a warm sandy color.

A few years later, Seiko released the second generation of its GMT watches: the 6117-8000. The timepieces featured a bright-red GMT hand calibrated to the main hour hand and came in a stainless steel tonneau case that measured 38.5mm.

The highly functional GMT watch also featured a date window at 3 o’clock, a bezel with 24-hour denotations, and an automatic movement; the 6117A.

Seiko continued to innovate so that among its impressive repertoire, GMT watches have carved a niche for themselves. The brand produces a wide range of GMT watches, both mechanical and quartz, with various levels of complexity. 

In more recent years, Seiko has incorporated GPS technology into some of its watches so that the timepiece can automatically adjust to the correct local time using GPS signals. An example of this is the Astron GPS Solar LE | SSJ017.

Among Seiko’s impressive repertoire, GMT watches have carved a niche for themselves. Seiko GMT watches are popular among travelers, pilots, and professionals who frequently need to reference timezones worldwide. They are also useful for individuals conducting international business or communicating with colleagues or family in different timezones. 

What To Look For in Seiko GMT Watches?

When looking for a Seiko GMT watch, there are several key features and factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice:

Watch Style

GMT watches are not only functional devices but are also fashion accessories. Seiko offers a wide range of GMT watch designs, from sporty to dressy, so you have to find one that suits your taste.

Watch style is an essential consideration because it impacts the watch’s aesthetics and suitability for various occasions, comfort, and long-term satisfaction. Plus, if you choose a GMT watch that complements your style, you’ll be more inclined to wear and enjoy it.

Again, different occasions and settings call for different watch styles. If you attend many formal events, a dressy GMT watch with a sleek design is more appropriate. On the other hand, a sporty or rugged-styled GMT watch will be ideal for enthusiasts who often engage in outdoor activities or dress casually more often than not.

Additional Functions

Additional functions in a GMT watch refer to any features or complications beyond the basic timekeeping function. These functions are important to consider when buying a GMT watch because they can enhance its usefulness and versatility for various purposes. 

Some additional functions commonly found in Seiko GMT watches include a world time function (which allows you to view the current time in various cities around the world), a date display, and a chronograph.

If you’re a frequent traveler, you’d find the world time function of great importance. However, just a date function will do if you’re purchasing your GMT watch for everyday wear.

Price

Seiko offers a wide price range, so there’s likely a GMT watch in its catalog for you. The prices often correlate with the watch’s features, materials, and craftsmanship, so set a budget before you explore Seiko’s GMT watch offerings.

By determining your budget, you can strike a balance between the features you desire and what you can afford. This helps you narrow down your choices and prevents you from overspending and regretting later on.

How To Read A Seiko GMT Watch

Before we get down to brass tacks, let’s shed light on an important issue: how to read your GMT watch. Setting up a GMT watch correctly for the first time and understanding how to adjust it can be confusing for some people, leading to occasional misreadings.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to read a GMT watch:

Identify the GMT Hand

Every Seiko GMT watch comes with three hands: the main hour hand, the minute hand, and the GMT hand. It is easy to identify because it’s always with a different design or color and points to a 24-hour scale on the watch.  

This GMT hand is what is used to track a second timezone. The main hour and minute hands on the dial only indicate the local time, just like any standard analog watch. 

Set The GMT Hand

You would find a 24-hour scale printed on the periphery of the dial of Seiko GMT watches or the bezel. This 24-hour scale helps you distinguish between AM and PM in the second timezone and is convenient for reading time in various settings, including military, aviation, and international timekeeping.

To set the GMT hand to the desired second timezone, use the watch’s crown to align the GMT hand with the reference timezone you want to track. Please ensure the bezel is in its correct position, with the 24-hour marker at noon.

Read the GMT Time

Once the GMT hand is correctly set, you can read the second timezone by noting where the GMT hand aligns with the 24-hour scale. Let’s assume that you’re traveling from Naples, Florida, to London, United Kingdom.

Before leaving, set the GMT hand on your watch to point to the current time in Naples. Naples, Florida, is in the Eastern timezone (ET), which is typically UTC-5 during Standard Time (EST) and UTC-4 during Daylight Saving Time (EDT).

Maintain the main hour and minute hands of your watch set to the local time throughout your journey, but as soon as you arrive in London, manually adjust the GMT hand on your watch to account for the time difference.

So if your home time is 09:00 on arrival, manually adjust the GMT hand on your watch to indicate 02:00 PM (14:00) as London is typically on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is UTC+0.

This way, you can easily track the time in your reference timezone while keeping the local time on your watch without using phone apps or online converters.

10 Best Seiko GMT Watches

From timeless classics to modern marvels, here are the 10 best Seiko GMT watches that transcend boundaries and capture the essence of adventure. 

Seiko 5 Sports SSK003

In a world that never sleeps, the Seiko 5 Sports SSK003 promises to keep pace with your dynamic lifestyle. Crafted with stainless steel, its 42.5mm diameter and 13.6mm thickness strikes a harmonious balance of substance and will sit comfortably on your wrist.

Each glance at the azure depth of the captivating blue dial draws us into a world of adventure and possibility. The dial boasts Lumibrite-coated hands and indexes for crystal-clear visibility, an inner flange with a 24-hour scale, and, of course, a vivid red GMT hand.

The bicolor bezel, made from durable Hardlex glass, adds durability and visual appeal. Beneath the surface, the automatic 4R34 movement, with 24 jewels and a 41-hour power reserve, ensures precision timekeeping. 

With a five-row stainless steel bracelet and a secure clasp, this watch says, “I’m here for style and function”, and at US$475, it’s a steal. What’s more, you can even get it right now for US$380 here.

Seiko Prospex SPB383

No matter where your travels lead, having the Prospex SPB383 with you is carrying a piece of home. The watch is a dazzling re-imagination of Seiko’s iconic 1968 diver’s watch, now equipped with the brand’s first mechanical GMT movement, the caliber 6R54. 

This timepiece boasts a remarkable 72-hour power reserve (the longest in Seiko’s mechanical watch lineup), and with 24 jewels and a frequency of 21,600 VPH, it’s a marvel of precision.

Crafted with a stainless steel case coated with super-hard black ceramic, it’s both rugged and sleek at 42mm in diameter and 12.9mm in height. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating ensures amazing visibility, and the bold black dial with luminous markers and a gold GMT hand enhances legibility in any lighting.

This Seiko Prospex SPB383 exudes luxury and adventure; at US$1,500, it’s an investment in style and functionality. You can get it here.

Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series SPB219

When I glance at SPB219, all I see is a reminder that the world is vast and full of wonders waiting to be discovered! With a gold arrow-shaped GMT hand that tracks reference time against the 24-hour scale on the bezel and the day-night flange on the dial, every hour with this timepiece is a new chapter in your adventure.

The watch measures 42.2mm across, has a thickness of 13.7mm, and a  lug-to-lug length of 49.2mm. Beneath the surface, the caliber 6R64 automatic movement, with 29 jewels and a power reserve of approximately 45 hours, keeps this masterpiece ticking.

The watch is secured by a stainless steel bracelet with a tri-fold push-button release clasp. For US$1,400, the Seiko Presage SPB219 is a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity. It’s just one click away, as you can get it here.

Seiko Prospex LX SNR025

Like a beam of sunlight, the SNR025 brings warmth and energy to your wrist, reminding you to seize each day with vigor. Titan among timepieces, the watch comes in a 44.8mm titanium case with a super-hard coating that feels both lightweight and indestructible. 

With a thickness of 14.7mm, the watch has a bold and robust appearance. LumiBrite hands and indexes illuminate the rich black dial, complemented by a rotating compass bezel and vibrant yellow accents.

The sapphire crystal, treated with a super-clear coating, ensures pristine clarity. A power reserve indicator lies between 8 and 9 o’clock, a date calendar is at 3 o’clock, and a bold yellow GMT 24-hour hand makes this watch a fusion of utility and style.

Beneath the surface lies the remarkable Spring Drive caliber 5R66, boasting 30 jewels and an impressive 72-hour power reserve – a testament to precision with an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. The watch is priced at US$5,000 and can be purchased here.

Seiko Presage Style60’s SSK011

Vintage charm meets functionality with the SSK011. Paying homage to the classic 1964 Crown Chronograph, this watch boasts a polished stainless steel case that measures 40.8mm across and has a thickness of 13mm.

The box-shaped glare-resistant Hardlex crystal adds a touch of nostalgia and durability. At the same time, the brushed satin dusty light gray dial, encircled by a 24-hour fixed aluminum bi-colored bezel, evokes the spirit of the ’60s. 

The brown GMT hand navigates timezones as effortlessly as it captures hearts, and the date window at 3 o’clock adds functional elegance.

Underneath the surface beats Seiko’s in-house movement caliber 4R34, with a see-through exhibition caseback revealing its inner workings.

The watch is fitted with a black perforated leather strap and a brushed and polished stainless steel tang buckle. At US$625, it’s like a time machine that takes you back to the ’60s.

Seiko Prospex SFK001

For the rugged explorer, the SFK001 is a beast. Its polished and brushed 45mm stainless steel case exudes strength, complemented by an aluminum rotating uni-directional bezel and safeguarded by anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

The satin blue textured dial, accented by an orange GMT hand, is a symphony of readability. Luminous markers and sword-style hands ensure easy legibility in any environment. A discreet 24-hour scale is nestled between the Lumibrite markers.

Powered by light through Seiko’s in-house caliber movement 5K65, this watch thrives on ambient or direct sunlight, boasting a remarkable 9-month power reserve, eliminating the need for frequent battery changes.

With a water resistance of 200 meters, it’s ready for professional diving, made even more comfortable with the stainless steel screw-down crown positioned at 4 o’clock. Priced at US$775, it’s a steal for those who demand durability and style. You can get it here right now for US$620.

Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series SPB269

Limited edition alert! The Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series SPB269 was born from a collaboration with the legendary Zero Halliburton luggage brand. Crafted from stainless steel, this 42.2mm x 13.7mm watch features a super-hard coating that enhances its scratch resistance, ensuring it’s as durable as it is stylish.

The dial is a work of art, merging Zero Halliburton’s double-rib design with the Presage Sharp-Edged Series Asanoha hemp-leaf motif. The silver dial boasts a blue 24-hour GMT hand, a power reserve indicator between 9 and 10 o’clock, and a circular sub-dial at 6 o’clock to track the date. LumiBrite hands and markers illuminate the dial, while a blue and black GMT bezel frames it.

Powering this exquisite timepiece is Seiko’s 29-jewel automatic caliber 6R64 movement. It is priced at US$1,550.

Seiko 5 Sports SSK005

Feel the warmth of reliability wrapped around your wrist while you elevate your urban style with the sophistication of the SSK005. The vibrant orange sunray-patterned dial evokes energy, optimism, and an undeniable zest for life – a reminder that life is meant to be lived in full color. 

The watch is presented in a 42.5mm x 13.6 mm brushed and polished stainless steel case, with a crown nestled within a crown guard at 4 o’clock. The dial is encircled by a bi-colored black and gray aluminum rotating uni-directional bezel featuring luminous hands and markers beneath a durable Hardlex crystal. 

Powering this exceptional timepiece is Seiko’s in-house-made automatic caliber 4R34 movement with a 40-hour power reserve. It is priced at US$475, but you can get it here right now for US$380.

Seiko Prospex LX SNR035

Behold the enigmatic allure of a timepiece that embodies the essence of mystery and sophistication. The deep, inky black dial and 44.8mm x 14.7mm titanium case, protected by a super-hard coating, exudes an air of understated elegance, ready to accompany you on your most enigmatic journeys.

With a sapphire crystal ensuring pristine clarity, each glance at its obsidian face is like peering into the depths of the cosmos. The thoughtful inclusion of a date indication at 3 o’clock and a power reserve indicator between 8 and 9 o’clock adds practicality to the aesthetic.

Powering this extraordinary timepiece is the Spring Drive caliber 5R66, offering an impressive 72-hour power reserve. Its precision is unrivaled, with a movement type that combines the best of automatic and quartz technologies. The watch is fitted with a black crocodile leather band and retails here for US$5,500.

Seiko Presage Style60’s SSK009

Last but not least, a wearable memory of a bygone era! With its graceful lines and vintage-inspired details, the SSK009 captures the essence of a time when style was an art form and every moment was an opportunity for refinement. 

Encased in a polished stainless steel case measuring 40.8mm x 13.0mm, this watch is protected by a box-shaped glare-resistant Hardlex crystal.

The petrol-blue dial evokes a sense of calm and wonder with its mesmerizing hue that captures the essence of mystery and exploration. The dial is encircled by a 24-hour fixed aluminum bi-colored bezel. Silver-applied baton markers and patina LumiBright diamond-shaped hands grace the contoured chapter ring, ensuring effortless legibility.

Underneath the hood, the in-house caliber 4R34 keeps precise time and offers a power reserve of 41 hours. The watch is fitted with a stainless steel bracelet, designed with angled lugs for comfort. It retails for US$625.

Conclusion

There you have it, the 10 Best Seiko GMT watches. Whether you’re a globetrotter seeking a trusted travel companion or an aficionado of fine watchmaking, these watches express the beauty and functionality of Seiko’s GMT offerings. 

So, choose your Seiko GMT watch, wear it proudly, and let it remind you that time, like life itself, is a precious journey meant to be cherished, celebrated, and savored to the fullest.