Mark shares his appreciation for Seiko's limited edition re-issues, highlighting two notable Prospex dive watches: the 2017 SBDX019/SLA017 and the 2018 SBEX007/SLA025. His insights offer a collector's perspective on how these modern interpretations honor their vintage predecessors while improving on functionality.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Whatβs next for 2020?
About the Seiko Seiko Prospex Ref. SLA017
The Seiko Prospex SLA017 is a limited edition reinterpretation of the brand's first diver's watch, the 62MAS, originally released in 1965. This modern iteration pays homage to its historical predecessor while incorporating contemporary watchmaking advancements, positioning it as a premium offering within Seiko's Prospex line.
The SLA017 features a 39.9mm stainless steel case with a super-hard coating, paired with a domed sapphire crystal. It is powered by the automatic caliber 8L35, a robust movement known for its reliability. The watch offers a water resistance of 200 meters, consistent with its dive watch heritage.
For collectors, the SLA017 holds significance as a faithful and high-quality tribute to a foundational model in Seiko's diver's watch history. Its limited production run and adherence to the aesthetic codes of the original 62MAS contribute to its desirability and collectibility within the enthusiast community.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 8L35
- Case
- Stainless steel with super-hard coating
- Diameter
- 39.9mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 200 meters
- Crystal
- Domed sapphire
