Seikojust released onenew version of the Prospex1965. The Japanese firm is, without a doubt, the recognized leader in watches for divers around the world. And that is no coincidence, it is the direct result of a long tradition of innovation that dates back more than 50 years. The Japanese brand Seiko has been a pioneer in introducing many of the features that are now openly accepted as standards in the watch industry. In fact, ISO standards have been based, in part, on the characteristics of diving watches fromSeikoand many of its innovations, such as the accordion-style strap, the use of titanium as a case material and the extra-wide hands, have helped define what a self-respecting dive watch should have.
A recreation of the Prospex, Seiko's first diving watch made in 1965
The first diving watchSeikoand from Japan it was manufactured in 1965, it was designed for maximum reliability and readability in the most severe conditions and was used by the Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition from 1966 to 1969. It was equipped with an automatic caliber and had a water resistance of 150m. But not only did it succeed among diving experts, recreational diving grew in popularity and the watch found favor with an increasingly wider public and putSeikoon a path of permanent development in durable, precise and safe diving watches, a development that has continued to this day.
Ahora Seikoreleases a recreation of this 1965 classic forProspexwhich respects the original design, but incorporates the most advanced technology, such as the 8L35 caliber, designed expressly for diving. This new design is the work of Nobuhiro Kosugi, who respected the original, as witnessed by the 3D hour markers that rise in high relief and yet are an integral part of the dial itself, the luminous dot at twelve, the slim profile of the case and the narrow bezel.
Although, as we have seen, it has maintained determining features, the newProspexIt has greatly improved functionality. It features a curved sapphire crystal and 200-meter water resistance for greater reliability, and a silicone strap to improve wear resistance both on top of neoprene and directly on the wrist. It has also gained durability with the extremely hard coating that protects the watch from scratches. This hand-assembled and fine-tuned masterpiece will be available in a limited edition of 2,000 pieces starting this July 2017.
Two other models inspired by the first Prospex
In addition to this review ofProspex, two other creations pay homage to the diving watch ofSeikofrom 1965. Two new watches that are also inspired by the original 1965 design, but are completely updated in their functions and meet the strict standards ofSeikofor diving watches.
On them, the hands are wider and have long-lasting Lumibrite to be easily readable even in dark water. Water resistance has been increased to 200 meters and the crystal is sapphire for strength and durability, and has an anti-reflective coating.
It is a refined model, thanks to the touch of distinction of the side profile of the case polished using the Zaratsu technique, and very comfortable, as it fits perfectly on the wrist. One is an all-steel version, while the other features an accordion-style silicone strap that combines high durability and comfort.
These watches will be launched in November 2017.
Features of the recreation of the first Limited Edition diving watch: SLA017
Caliber 8L35
Drive system: Automatic
Alternations: 28,800 per hour (8 per second)
Power reserve: 50 hours
Number of rubies: 26
Specs:
Stainless steel case with extremely hard coating
Box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
screw down crown
Water resistance: 200 meters diver's
Magnetic resistance: 4800 A/m.
Diameter: 39.9mm, Thickness: 14.1mm.
Silicone strap. A stainless steel bracelet is included.
Approximate and recommended retail price in Europe: 3,800 Euros
Limited edition of 2,000 pieces
Characteristics of the contemporary reinterpretation: SPB051, 053
Caliber 6R15
Drive system: Automatic
Alternations: 21,600 per hour (6 per second)
Power reserve: 50 hours
Number of rubies: 23
Specs:
Stainless steel case with extremely hard coating.
Curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
screw down crown
Water resistance: 200 meters diver's
Magnetic resistance: 4800 A/m.
Diameter: 42.6 mm, Thickness: 13.8 mm.
Stainless steel bracelet
Push-button release tri-fold closure, safety clasp and extender (SPB051).
Silicone strap (SPB053).
Approximate and recommended retail prices in Europe: 1,100 Euros (SPB051) / 900 Euros (SPB053)
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