For years, Prospex watches have been considered the absolute top models in the Seiko collection. The collection originally consists of adventure watches, such as diving watches and pilot watches. The SPB381J1, SPB383J1 and SPB385J1 GMT, released this summer, combine the best of these two worlds with their dual-time function, 20 ATM water resistance and rotating ceramic diving bezel. This Prospex watch is an excellent choice for both the traveling adventurer and the diver.
The new interpretation of the Hi-Beat diving watch from 1968
The design of this Prospex series is a reinterpretation of the first Seiko Hi-Beat diving watches from the 1960s and the associated style elements. This is clearly visible in the round shapes of the case, which ensures that the case and strap fit together nicely. This is a style feature that Seiko often features, including in the well-known Seiko 5 series. The new Prospex is available in black, green and ice blue. The green version fits seamlessly with this autumn’s trends, in which dark green is one of the main colours. Green also fits perfectly with this type of watch. The ice blue variant is special. This is available as a limited edition in a limited worldwide edition of only 4000 pieces and part of Seiko’s ‘Save the Ocean’ collaboration. A collaboration with PADI diving schools in which the watch brand organizes several events per year around the world to keep the ocean clean of plastic and other waste.
Seiko’s own 6R54 movement
The watch is powered by its own reliable automatic 6R54 movement, where the GMT functionality can be adjusted independently of the regular hands. The movement guarantees a power reserve of 72 hours, so you don’t have to worry if you don’t wear the watch for a few days. The watch is 20ATM waterproof, so water damage is not an issue. Make sure that you tighten the screw crown properly. Finally, both the hands and indexes, even the diving bezel, are provided with a Lumibrite luminous coating, making the watch easy to read even deep underwater. Seiko chooses to incorporate the extra hour indication into the raised edge of the dial, so that it is primarily a diving watch.
In addition to being functional, the SPB381, SPB383, and SPB385 are also comfortable.
In addition to the beautiful design and versatile functions, the wearing comfort of the new Prospex series is also worth mentioning. Due to the low center of gravity, the watch fits like a glove in most cases, and despite its robust appearance, it does not feel heavy. This adventurous watch is also suitable for daily use. The same applies to the case thickness of only 12.9 mm. Most diving watches quickly look thick because of the diving bezel. You will notice that this is not the case with this watch, so it can even easily be worn under a shirt or other long-sleeved garment. The ice blue SPB385J1 variant comes with a NATO strap, made of ocean plastic, which is wonderfully soft and comfortable to wear thanks to the Japanese ‘Seichu’ weaving technique.
Seiko has once again succeeded in creating a beautiful Prospex series that meets all expectations. The diving watch combined with GMT functionality provides a nice addition that you don’t see often and that will appeal to many watch enthusiasts. The same goes for the colors, especially the deep dark green and the fresh ice blue.
Also curious about the other watches in the Prospex family, such as the iconic Alpinist or the unique Speedtimer? Then take a look at our Seiko Prospex page.