Seiko SPB501 AquaStar Benthos H2: Diver Collection

Aquaracer1 · 2025-10-03T20:22:45Z

Explore a collector's comparison of the Seiko SPB501 and AquaStar Benthos H2. Discover which vintage-inspired diver offers more character and value.

Aquaracer1

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

18 replies891 views13 photos

Aquaracer1, a discerning collector, offers a compelling side-by-side comparison of two modern vintage-inspired skin divers: the Seiko SPB501 and the AquaStar Benthos H2. His detailed analysis delves into the nuances of design, wearability, and overall 'soul' that differentiate these similarly priced timepieces. This article explores why, for Aquaracer1, the AquaStar ultimately emerges as the more characterful choice.

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Two cool 60’s/70’s vintage-inspired skin divers, packed with value, at similar price points. The Seiko is fun and playful with its emerald colorway. The AquaStar looks the business taking design cues from its past. Today I wore the Seiko in the morning and then switched to the AquaStar at lunch. The Seiko is an excellent effort, but there are a couple things that would make this watch better for me: 1) The dial is a bit too busy for me with those wave graphics, 2) The bracelet and clasp are… Meh, very generic, 3) That DAMN date window! In contrast, the AquaStar is a bit more faithful to the original. Solid black dial with no texture or graphics, BOR bracelet is beautiful and interesting, NO date window! The Seiko is not bad. Far from it. But after wearing these 2 back to back on the same day. I feel the AquaStar is less generic, has more character, soul and charm, for me. Thanks for reading Friends! 🍻

Key Points from the Discussion

The AquaStar Benthos H2 bracelet is noted for its superior comfort and finishing compared to other Beads of Rice (BOR) bracelets, such as those found on Nivada Grenchen models, which can have sharp edges.
Despite its appealing emerald green color, Aquaracer1 would only consider keeping the Seiko SPB501 if it featured a simpler dial without wave graphics, a more compelling bracelet and clasp, and the absence of a date window.
The AquaStar Benthos H2 offers excellent wearability with its compact dimensions of 40mm diameter, 44mm lug-to-lug, and 12mm thickness, making it a versatile 'strap monster' that looks great on various strap materials like canvas.
The modern AquaStar Benthos H2 successfully captures the aesthetic of its vintage predecessors, offering the benefits of a contemporary watch without the common issues or inflated prices often associated with acquiring vintage pieces.
Experimenting with different straps, such as a sailcloth strap, could potentially enhance the appeal of the Seiko SPB501 for those who find its bracelet lacking, though Aquaracer1 found this insufficient to change his overall preference.
While the Seiko's emerald green color and wave dial graphics are appreciated by some for their pleasing aesthetic, the AquaStar is perceived as having a more robust and 'badass' approach to a dive watch design.

The Discussion

Marc Obermann

Oct 3, 2025

I love that Aquastar Benthos on the beads of rice bracelet it just looks amazing.

I nearly bought a vintage one a couple of times but they always had an issue or insane price. I think this one looks as good as the original with all the benefits of being a modern watch. Marc

Aquaracer1

Oct 3, 2025

Most appreciated Marc!

Excellent wearability and fit too: 40 x 44 x 12 mm 👌🏻

Larrykelley11

Oct 3, 2025

Jesse, two very different approaches to the same thing and I personally like that!

the Seiko emerald green is a pleasing color and I like seeing the waves in the bright light. The Aquastar has the more badass approach to being a dive watch. Just my 2 cents.

Aquaracer1

Oct 3, 2025

Well said Larry 👍🏻

Thanks for your comment! 🍻

Vetnov

Oct 3, 2025

The Seiko has a hulk feel to it,

but definitely has its own DNA. Cool watch 😊

Bill

Oct 3, 2025

The Aquastar looks sweet. Bracelet strap all looks good. Enjoy

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