Collection
DoesNotTickTock shares his passion for Seiko, highlighting two modern dive watch re-issues: the SLA017 and SLA033. His post offers a personal perspective on why these particular models resonate with collectors, especially concerning the balance between historical accuracy and contemporary sizing in re-issues. This discussion explores the enduring appeal of these Seiko divers within the enthusiast community.
I love Seiko.
If I could only collect one brand that would be my choice. I have owned some very special pieces from some very special brands but Seiko is still the one that floats my boat. I love vintage and modern Seiko. I love to collect the vintage and re-issue of different models.
Bringing me to my post. The SLA017 is a re-issue of the original Seiko diver 6217 (62MAS) from 1965.
The thing I love about Seiko re-issues is that they really try to recreate the original watch, usually with bigger dimensions as that is what they think us collectors want, where really I (maybe the majority) would rather original dimensions.
The SLA033 is a re-issue of the 6105 "Captain Willard" made famous from the movie Apocalypse Now. As stated above it is very similar in appearance to the original from 1968 but has a larger profile. I usually only wear smaller watches but this one really has my heart and I love wearing its beautiful blob shape on my wrist. The "lugless" case actually wears smaller than on paper.
Anyway, these two are some of my favourite modern dive watches. I hope you enjoy.
Cheers
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual reference 6105 represents the brand's Bubble Back series from the 1940s. This 32mm timepiece demonstrates Rolex's automatic watchmaking during the decade, featuring the caliber A.10 movement with 42-hour power reserve.
The stainless steel case measures 32mm in diameter and houses an automatic caliber A.10 movement. The watch displays a silver dial beneath an acrylic crystal, framed by a smooth bezel. Water resistance extends to 50 meters, and the timepiece is fitted with a leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in mid-20th century Rolex automatic watches and those focusing on the Bubble Back series specifically. The 32mm case size and silver dial configuration place this reference within the smaller format offerings of the Oyster Perpetual range from this production period.
I love the 017! Such a beautiful piece! What strap do you have on it in this picture? Thank you!
Tropic strap from keepiece.com
That's quite the trifecta! All different and amazing!
The SLA 017 is one of my dream watches in the diver category. Amazing proportions and it just looks gorgeous.
I have not yet dipped my toes into 'high end' divers from the brand. I have my eyes set on a Willard and yours is delicious, very charismatic. But is the case different than the base Willard version (e. g. SPB151) or is it mainly the dial and movement? Here is my basic SKX007 enjoying a pool dip some years ago
The 017 is my absolute favorite diver
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