Seiko SLA017 Diver Review

RabidManatee · 2017-06-24T17:44:40Z

RabidManatee reviews the Seiko SLA017 diver, highlighting its Marinemaster movement, Grand Seiko finishing, and discussing its mirror-like rehaut and 19mm lugs.

RabidManatee

WPS member · Seiko forum

25 replies4235 views4 photos

RabidManatee introduces his new Seiko SLA017, a highly anticipated diver that brings a Marinemaster-grade movement into a more compact case. His initial review provides a balanced perspective, praising its Grand Seiko-level finishing and comfortable wear while also noting some areas for improvement. This article explores RabidManatee's first impressions and the community's reactions to this significant Seiko release.

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...sorry for the mediocre pics but, as has been said of other Seikos, the seemingly color-shifting dial is difficult to capture on camera. Here are my thoughts thusfar:

Pro:
I've been hoping to see a Seiko diver with the Marinemaster-grade movement in a smaller case, and this is it! I love the watch's size and the silicone strap it came on. I'm not sure I'll ever put it on the bracelet it came with, but I might be tempted to procure a couple of NATOs (see below). The case, hand and dial finishing appear to be Grand Seiko-like in quality. The watch is running about +7 secs in the approx. 48 hours that have elapsed since it landed here via complementary next-day-air shipping courtesy of the Boutique (a nice touch). And the lume is fantastic!

Con:
I wish that the watch was just a little less shiny, especially seeing as how it's a diver; the rehaut is truly mirror-like. I also think the bezel action could be a bit tighter and the crown a bit smoother. And why, why, why did they make the lugs 19mm instead of 20mm?

Criticisms aside I've been wearing this watch since its arrival and I'm becoming increasingly enamored of it with each passing day. It's quite a nice package, and IMHO more than fairly priced.

--RM

This message has been edited by cazalea on 2017-06-28 07:23:11

About the Seiko Seiko Prospex Ref. SLA017

The Seiko Prospex SLA017 is a limited-edition re-interpretation of the brand's first diver's watch, the 62MAS, originally released in 1965. This modern iteration was launched in 2017 as part of Seiko's Prospex line, known for its robust and professional-grade timepieces. It pays homage to its historical predecessor while incorporating contemporary watchmaking advancements.

The SLA017 features a 39.9mm stainless steel case with a super-hard coating, paired with a black unidirectional rotating bezel. It is powered by the automatic caliber 8L35, a high-grade movement assembled by Seiko's skilled craftsmen. The watch is fitted with a domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on the inner surface and offers a water resistance of 200 meters.

As a limited edition of 2,000 pieces worldwide, the SLA017 holds significant appeal for collectors of Seiko diver's watches and enthusiasts of vintage-inspired designs. Its faithful recreation of the original 62MAS aesthetic combined with modern performance and finishing makes it a sought-after reference within the Prospex collection, representing a key piece in Seiko's dive watch heritage.

Specifications

Caliber: 8L35

Case: Stainless steel with super-hard coating

Diameter: 39.9mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 200 meters

Crystal: Domed sapphire with anti-reflective coating

Key Points from the Discussion

The Seiko SLA017 is praised for its smaller case size, housing a Marinemaster-grade movement, and its Grand Seiko-like quality in case, hand, and dial finishing.
Despite its high quality, the watch's mirror-like rehaut and shiny indices are noted as potential drawbacks, making it appear more like a 'glittering gem' than a 'purpose-built tool watch' to some.
The 19mm lug width is a point of frustration for collectors, as it limits strap change options and makes finding suitable alternatives challenging.
The SLA017's dial is described as 'seemingly color-shifting,' making it difficult to capture accurately in photographs, yet contributing to its unique appeal.
The watch's bezel action and crown smoothness are identified as areas that could be improved, suggesting a desire for a more refined tactile experience.

The Discussion

jml_watches

Jun 24, 2017

Looks stunning

Hi Now that's something to really enjoy! The dial is rather wonderful too. Enjoy wearing it & look forward to a fuller review in the near future Cheers JML

remarque

Jun 24, 2017

interesting. first place to note 19mm lug width. hope to see one in the flesh soon. thanks for your quick preview... [nt]

RabidManatee

Jun 25, 2017

You're welcome! [nt]

KMII

Jun 24, 2017

19mm seems to be a Seiko dimension...

Same on my Grand Seiko SBGX097 - which does not make strap changes easy (you need to go bespoke most of the time - at least before Seiko starts making more strap choices). Glad you like it otherwise - quite tempted myself 😊

RabidManatee

Jun 25, 2017

Thanks. Seeing the finish on this watch makes me want a GS ;-) [nt]

RabidManatee

Jun 25, 2017

A clarification: The watch has gained approx. 7 seconds in the time I've had it, so if we're talking about a rate it's "running at" +3.5 secs per day. Sorry if I wasn't clear.

I'll post some additional impressions once I've had the watch for a little longer if anyone's interested. Thanks.