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We just visited the Seiko and Grand Seiko store on London’s Bond Street. Since we’ve already discussed some of the best Grand Seiko models, now we’ll focus on the top models we could find. We requested the best models from the store manager, and we also added a few more that truly struck our eye. Everybody can find a Seiko watch, from the entertaining Seiko 5 to the opulent Grand Seiko Tentagraph.
Seiko Prospex SRPF 77
Let’s start with the limited-edition Seiko Prospex SRPF 77, which is my particular favorite. It has a very definite ocean aesthetic, as implied somewhat by the name “Save the ocean special edition.” When you hold the watch at the proper angle, the engraved manta rays spring out of the water, which I love. I was astonished at how nicely the enormous cyclops covering the day and date functions; it is enormous, but Seiko has expertly integrated it.
Looking at and discussing the case has a very 1970s feel to it. The Seiko community has given it the name “Turtle” and you can definitely perceive the similarity to a turtle shell due to the cushion-like construction that makes it quite comfortable on the wrist.
During my visit to the Seiko store, I made a curious observation. Seiko has added nicknames for each watch in addition to the names and pricing of the timepieces. I noticed the “Tuna,” “Samurai,” “Turtle,” and other creatures as I peered about. I adore it when a business recognizes the monikers that its customers are utilizing.
The 4R36 movement, which is essentially a Seiko NH36 and is a respectable movement with a 41-hour power reserve and 200-meter water resistance, is found within the SRPF77. With a 45mm diameter and 13.2mm thickness, it is a large watch, yet the case design makes it surprisingly comfortable.
I believe you can’t beat the deal you receive at £550; but, I’m not sure Seiko is actually profiting from the sale of this timepiece.
Staying with Prospex and diving, we took a look at the SPB 145, a smaller 40.5mm case diameter 200m dive watch. Although it costs twice as much at £1,100, the 6R35 movement inside is an upgrade, especially with a 70-hour power reserve.
The sunburst dial is cool, but I’m not all that inspired by the design. However, a different excellent Prospex that is a chronograph is more intriguing.
Seiko Speedtimer SRQ 039
A minimalist automatic chronograph with a gorgeous blue face is the Seiko Speedtimer SRQ 039. Professional watches like Prospex are made by Seiko, which has a long history in timing going all the way back to 1964, when Seiko was named the official timekeeper of the Tokyo Olympic Games.
The Seiko calibre 8R46, which is intended to be as exact as possible, is found inside the watch. The 30-minute chrono sub-dial is on the left and the seconds sub-dial is on the right of this bi-compax chronograph movement. A substantial power reserve of about 45 hours is also present.
One of the more tasteful-looking Prospex watches available.
King Seiko
Although each Seiko brand is distinct, King Seiko stands out. We looked at the SPB 287, a high-end watch that costs £1,560. King Seiko was relaunched in the last few years to replace Grand Seiko as Seiko’s premium watch market since Grand Seiko became independent from Seiko in 2017.
The King Seiko actually fills the gap between Seiko and Grand Seiko in terms of price. The design language of the brand originally reflects its popularity in the early 1960s. The bracelet’s design and the smaller, 37mm-diameter watch head are reminiscent of that time period. Grand Seiko stole the show and took the lead among accurate luxury watches when King Seiko was founded out of the ambition to develop a precise mechanical timepiece.
The calibre 6R31, a simple 3-hand movement with a 70-hour power reserve, is housed inside the SPB 287. Although the dial is gorgeous, is it really worth more than £1500? For about half the price, you can get nearly the same movement.
Presage Sharp Edged Series
Introducing the Seiko SPB 227, also known as the Presage Sharp Edged Series. The calibre 6R35, a precise movement with a date wheel from Seiko, costs about £880. If you desire the 6R series of movements with a 70-hour power reserve, I believe this watch offers greater value.
The watch has a somewhat larger diameter of 39.3mm but only an 11.1mm thickness. Compared to the King Seiko, the design is more contemporary, and the dial is more striking. In particular, the Seiko logo stands out more on its own background.
If red isn’t your thing, we looked at another lovely wristwatch. The Seiko Presage models are cheap dress watches that look amazing.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time
Meet the SRPB 41, a Seiko Presage Cocktail Time model. This nearly seems like an impulse buy at £349. The watch just explodes off your wrist like a tiny disco party; the face is the epitome of a sunburst dial.
This cocktail watch is 40.5mm in diameter and 11.8mm in thickness, making it slightly larger than the red one overall. Inside, we find the 4R35 movement, which has a 41-hour power reserve.
This Presage is a great option for your next evening event if you need a dress watch and are on a tight budget.
Seiko 5 Sport
The Seiko 5 Sport with reference number SRPJ45 is arguably one of the best-value Seiko timepieces available. This SKX Seiko 5 is a cost-effective substitute for the Prospex; it costs only £290 and has the same 4R36 calibre. You won’t be able to do anything really crazy in the water because the water resistance is only rated for 100m, but for daily use, it’s perfect. The Seiko 5 has a clear dial that allows you to see the day and date wheels, and the color they chose is a beautiful light blue that looks just great in person.
Despite being such a large company, Seiko manages to remain grounded and serve watch enthusiasts of all skill levels. Which one of these Seiko watches caught your attention? I feel like I’m developing a Seiko addiction. Tell us in the comments section below.