Seiko Prospex recently debuted four diver’s watch references that follow the design of the company’s original dive watch the 62MAS: the SPB143, SPB145, SPB147, SPB149.
Seiko’s first dive watch — the Ref. 6217-8001 known as the 62MAS — was closely recreated in the SLA017 that was introduced in 2017. The most accurate modern recreation measures 39.9 mm, features an upper-end caliber 8L35 Seiko movement, and a significant price tag of $3,400. Accompanying that 2,000 limited edition SLA017 was the SPB053 and SPB053 which measure 42.6 mm and are less faithful recreations, if you will, of the 62MAS, with lower specs and priced at $800 and $1,000.
This month, Seiko has again used the 62MAS as the design inspiration for a new set of diving wristwatches. Introducing the SPB143, SPB145, SPB147, SPB149.
Presented in 40.5 mm 13.2mm stainless steel cases (47.6 mm lug to lug), with a super-hard coating to reduce scratches, the new references are more similar to in size to the SLA017 which retailed $3,400 yet the entry priced model is less than a third of that at $1,000 on a rubber strap. Not bad for less than a third of the price of the most faithful 62MAS recreation. You also get an arguably more wearable timepiece with a toned-down crown and a choice of four different dial colors.
Additional features include a domed sapphire crystal, screw-locked crown, screwed cashback, 200 meters of water-resistance rating, and a mid-level 3Hz caliber 6R35 automatic movement with hand-winding, second hacking, and a 70-hour power reserve. Functions include hours, minutes, center seconds, and date.
The SPB146 comes on a black silicone strap with a brown/bronze dial with gilt accents for $1,000. The SPB145 has a brown/gray dial, a special cashback, a steel bracelet, and will be available exclusively at Seiko boutiques for $1,200. The SPB143 has a gray/black dial with a steel bracelet for $1,200. Finally, the SPB149 has a blue dial with yellow gold accents and comes with both a blue silicone strap and steel bracelet and is a limited edition of 5,500 pieces which retail for $1,350.
Availability begins July 2020.
