A quick look at our favorite new releases from Seiko at Baselworld 2018.
Seiko 1968 Automatic Diver’s Re-creation Limited Edition
Seiko’s new releases at Baselworld 2018 focused on celebrating Seiko’s rich history of producing diving watches. This year saw the introduction of the Seiko 1968 Automatic Diver’s Re-creation Limited Edition (SLA025) in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the legendary Seiko 6159. The iconic Seiko 6159 is very special because it was one Seiko’s first professional diving watches and because it features a hi-beat automatic movement that vibrates at 36,000 alternations per hour. Hi-beat movements are something the brand has become famous for over time, and Seiko continues to use them in numerous watches they produce today.
The new SLA025 is a proper tribute to the original 6159 in the sense that it sports the exact same looks as the original. Also like the original, it features a one-piece case construction and a flat case back. Inside is where this watch differs from the 6159. The SLA025 is powered by Seiko’s state-of-the-art, hi-beat caliber 8L55. This movement is made by Seiko’s skilled watchmakers at the Shizukuishi Watch Studio in Morioka. These same watchmakers also developed the highly praised Grand Seiko movements. The caliber 8L55 used in the SLA025 is, essentially, the Grand Seiko 9S85 movement with less finishing, so you know you are buying a watch that has been developed with the highest quality standards in mind.
The SLA025 is a limited edition of 1,500 pieces and can be yours for 5,500 euros. There are critics who say the price is somewhat high for a Seiko watch. That being said, Seiko should have no problem selling them quickly, considering this is a tribute that combines the original looks of the 6159 with the highest quality movement and finish. In fact, you will probably need to act quickly in order to get one. Your other option would be to buy the original 6159. However, that would set you back almost double the money of this new and improved version. The choice is yours…
Facts & Details:
- The Seiko 1968 Automatic Diver’s Re-creation Limited Edition (SLA025) is as close to the original as it gets
- Limited to 1,500 pieces
- The design is a nod to the brand’s rich diving history
- The watch is powered by the automatic, in-house Seiko 8L55 hi-beat movement with 36,000 alternations per hour and a 55-hour power reserve
- 44.8-mm stainless steel case with a super-hard coating
- Water-resistance: 300 m (984 ft)
- 16.000 A/m magnetic resistance
- List price is 5,500 euros for the watch on a silicone strap
Seiko 1968 Automatic Diver’s Commemorative Limited Edition
The Seiko 1968 Automatic Diver’s Commemorative Limited Edition (SLA019) is yet another limited edition introduced to commemorate the 1968 diver’s watch. This green watch is a special version of the standard Seiko 300m SBDX017, also known as the Marine Master.
The new SLA019 features a dial and bezel both in a rich green that resembles the color of the cedar trees on the island of Yakushima. In addition to being a natural World Heritage Site, Yakushima is also a very popular diving spot. While the story behind the color of the watch may be interesting, the sheer beauty of the combination of a green dial and bezel with a gold sweep seconds hand and gold “300m” inscription should be strong enough to win people over.
The one-piece, 44.3-mm stainless steel case contains the automatic Seiko caliber 8L35 with a 50-hour power reserve. Furthermore, the crystal has been updated: The usual Hardlex has been replaced by sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating both inside and out.
Rumors swirled at Baselworld 2018, speculating that the standard MM300 SBDX017 might be discontinued. If so, this edition could be seen as a special send-off version of the regular Marine Master. This watch is limited to 1,968 pieces and, because of its remarkable colors, it will probably be in high demand.
Facts & Details:
- The Seiko 1968 Automatic Diver’s Commemorative Limited Edition is a limited edition version of the standard Seiko 300m SBDX017
- Limited to 1,968 pieces
- Green dial and green zirconia ceramic bezel
- The watch is powered by the automatic, in-house Seiko 8L35 movement with a 50-hour power reserve
- Water resistance: 300 m (984 ft)
- 44.3 mm stainless steel case with a super-hard coating
- 16.000 A/m magnetic resistance
- List price is 3,200 euros. The watch comes with both a stainless steel bracelet as well as a silicone strap
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