Seiko recently debuted an emerald green PADI version of one of its best iterations of the modern 62MAS.
The Prospex SPB501 Diver’s Watch 1965 Heritage PADI Special Edition shares the same stainless steel case as other SPB501 models, which typically cost $1,300 and measure 40 mm in diameter by 13 mm in thickness, and 46.4 mm lug-to-lug.
With this diver’s watch, you get a screw-down crown, a solid screw-in caseback, a slightly domed sapphire crystal, an emerald green aluminum insert with 60-minute count-up dive markings, and a depth rating of 300 meters.
Matching the emerald green aluminum bezel insert is an emerald green dial with a special wave and sunburst motif, that’s attractive and stamped with the “PADI” logo at 6 o’clock, although this watch carries a $350 premium over the standard black or blue dial/bezel variations.
Additionally, you receive a one-piece recycled Ocean plastics NATO-style strap, in emerald green, that’s fitting for a diver’s watch.
Underneath the dial is Seiko’s upscale 24-jewel in-house automatic caliber 6R55 movement, which beats at 3Hz, and has a 72-hour power reserve (denoted by “3 Days” on the dial). At -15/+25 seconds per day, this is nowhere near chronometer levels of accuracy (a chronometer is -4/+6 seconds per day or better); however, within the Seiko world, and Japanese calibers in general, this is better than base movements tend to be adjusted to. You can manually wind the rotor, and it does have hacking seconds to set the time more accurately, but don’t expect Swiss-level timing precision.
Beneficially, the watch is equipped with a new, thinner bracelet that features a deployant clasp that can be adjusted in six increments, each measuring about 2.5 mm, for a total range of 15 mm. This is great for diving or everyday life.
The Seiko Prospex PADI Edition (Ref. SPB501JI) is an appealing watch, in a unique color, with PADI co-branding, and a special recycled NATO strap; however, considering the standard models are $350 less, it makes you wonder if the special edition is worth the $1,650 price tag.
Photos by Seiko.
