Mark
310
Seiko Re-Issues
Seiko limited edition pieces have endeared themselves to me.
2017 Seiko Prospex First Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBDX019/SLA017
This is a re-creation of the 62MAS from 1965, which was my first mechanical watch. It addresses the issue I had with the original, namely water resistance.
It was the most exciting new watch release in 2017 for me. The case size and dimensions are more sensible than the oversized maxi cases that a lot of contemporary divers, including Seiko ones, come in these days.
The optional steel bracelet is incomprehensible with the adjustment pins that Seiko uses, but the silicone waffle strap is soft and comfortable.
This is an easy choice for lap-swimming in the pool.
This is a re-creation of the 62MAS from 1965, which was my first mechanical watch. It addresses the issue I had with the original, namely water resistance.
It was the most exciting new watch release in 2017 for me. The case size and dimensions are more sensible than the oversized maxi cases that a lot of contemporary divers, including Seiko ones, come in these days.
The optional steel bracelet is incomprehensible with the adjustment pins that Seiko uses, but the silicone waffle strap is soft and comfortable.
This is an easy choice for lap-swimming in the pool.
2018 Seiko Prospex 1968 Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBEX007/SLA025
If the SLA017 is meant for the pool, this one is meant for the ocean, which is a rare luxury for me to swim in these days.
I'm really curious about these Baselworld releases that Seiko gets involved in. I think their reissues make so much more sense than what other watch companies are doing. The dimensions and balance are slightly adjusted, and the pieces are free from any design choices to seem vintage, like artificial patina on the lume.
There are days where a piece with larger wrist presence is appreciated. These Seiko re-creations have the 19mm silicone waffle strap that keeps everything from being top-heavy, and I see why they left out the steel bracelet this time.
The back of this piece is just as amazing as the front because of the monoblock.
If the SLA017 is meant for the pool, this one is meant for the ocean, which is a rare luxury for me to swim in these days.
I'm really curious about these Baselworld releases that Seiko gets involved in. I think their reissues make so much more sense than what other watch companies are doing. The dimensions and balance are slightly adjusted, and the pieces are free from any design choices to seem vintage, like artificial patina on the lume.
There are days where a piece with larger wrist presence is appreciated. These Seiko re-creations have the 19mm silicone waffle strap that keeps everything from being top-heavy, and I see why they left out the steel bracelet this time.
The back of this piece is just as amazing as the front because of the monoblock.
2019 Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBDX031/SLA033
The final Seiko diver for me: this completes my Seiko diver trilogy. While the other two re-creations brings up thoughts of the ocean, this piece elicits destinations with tropical jungles and rivers in Indochina.
I took this piece to my regular work locations in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as to once-in-a-lifetime journeys to Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos.
The final Seiko diver for me: this completes my Seiko diver trilogy. While the other two re-creations brings up thoughts of the ocean, this piece elicits destinations with tropical jungles and rivers in Indochina.
I took this piece to my regular work locations in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as to once-in-a-lifetime journeys to Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos.
2000 Seiko Quartz-Astron SCQZ002
This is a reissue of the original 1969 35SQ, the world's first quartz watch. Paired with an 18K yellow gold case, it was pitched as an extravagant luxury piece at that time.
It started the quartz revolution in the '70s and '80s causing a significant decline in Swiss watch manufacturing who were focused on mechanical movements.
I picked up this quartz watch for my collection, because of the significance of what this reissue represents. While I am not partial to quartz movements, this piece just works at a visual level.
It is also fun wearing a crass yellow gold dress watch in inappropriate environments, like the plains of Bagan while exploring ancient temple ruins from the 9th to 13th century.
This is a reissue of the original 1969 35SQ, the world's first quartz watch. Paired with an 18K yellow gold case, it was pitched as an extravagant luxury piece at that time.
It started the quartz revolution in the '70s and '80s causing a significant decline in Swiss watch manufacturing who were focused on mechanical movements.
I picked up this quartz watch for my collection, because of the significance of what this reissue represents. While I am not partial to quartz movements, this piece just works at a visual level.
It is also fun wearing a crass yellow gold dress watch in inappropriate environments, like the plains of Bagan while exploring ancient temple ruins from the 9th to 13th century.
What’s next for 2020?
More posts:
Seiko Re-Issues
Seiko limited edition pieces have endeared themselves to me. 2017 Seiko Prospex First Diver's Re-creation Limited Edition SBDX019/SLA017 This is a re-creation of the 62MAS from 1965, which was my first mechanical watch. It addresses the issue I had with t...
Great write up. Thank you!
I fell for the SLA 017 when I saw it at BaselWorld and placed my order right from the convention floor. It is one of my favorite pieces. I really like, and agree with, your observation about Seiko refraining from using the faux-patina on this re-make/trib...
Great series of Seikos
The SLA017 is superb, wish I'd pulled the trigger when had the chance. Cheers JML
