Seiko Introduces The SPB501 And SRPL53 PADI Editions

Seiko has given us a mess of PADI Editions over the previous decade or so. I’m the proud proprietor of the Seiko Turtle SRPA21 PADI Version that got here out in 2016. I don’t put on it typically lately, however I used to put on it so much after shopping for it. That watch is why I all the time observe the brand new PADI Editions with curiosity. Seiko graces us with two PADI Editions in vibrant inexperienced this yr. The primary is the Prospex SPB501 Diver’s Watch 1965 Heritage, and the second is the Prospex “Samurai” SRPL53. The Japanese model additionally introduces a second “Samurai” mannequin, the blue Prospex SRPL51. The final is a daily addition to the model’s catalog. Let’s discover out extra.

I’m pondering again to that Seiko Turtle SRPA21 PADI Version that I personal. It spent years in its field, however not too long ago, I made a decision to put on it once more. Doing so jogged my memory how properly it wears for such an enormous watch and the way a lot I like the blue and crimson aesthetic. I don’t have many colourful watches as a result of black is my go-to for many, making my PADI Turtle a right away standout in my assortment. Since that watch got here out 9 years in the past, Seiko has modified. The model’s assortment has had a whole overhaul with tons of latest fashions. The particular PADI Editions have all the time remained, although. So once we had an opportunity to take a look at the most recent collaborative efforts with the Skilled Affiliation of Diving Instructors, I used to be curious to study extra.

The Seiko Prospex SPB501 Diver’s Watch 1965 Heritage PADI Particular Version

Let’s start with the Seiko Prospex SPB501 Diver’s Watch 1965 Heritage PADI Particular Version. It’s a protracted title for a member of the most recent era of watches modeled after the well-known 62MAS from 1965. As with most PADI Editions, we get not solely a particular shade but in addition a particular dial.

For this particular version, the model equips the stainless-steel watch with a vibrant inexperienced aluminum bezel insert and an emerald-green dial. This dial has an intricate sample mimicking the open water of the seas and will get constantly darker in direction of the underside, as you’d additionally expertise within the water.

In step with the common fashions, the SPB501 incorporates a 40 × 46.4 × 13mm stainless-steel case with a 300m depth ranking. The bezel insert options laser-engraved numerals to cease them from fading. Moreover, the dial is graced by a sequence of outsized utilized indexes and a well-known handset stuffed with white LumiBrite for excellent readability at the hours of darkness. The date window is neatly tucked away between 4 and 5 o’clock, creating an easy-to-read dial.

The Seiko 6R55 motion inside

Beneath the all-steel case again beats Seiko’s in-house caliber 6R55. This computerized motion operates at 21,600vph, has 24 jewels, and presents a wholesome 72-hour energy reserve. Seiko has specified a each day accuracy of +25/-15 seconds. As most of you already know, that may be a protected margin, and Seiko house owners typically report larger accuracy.

The identical three-row bracelet from the common fashions finishes the look. The case and the bracelet characteristic Seiko’s proprietary arduous coating to forestall small scratches. Moreover, the bracelet comes with the brand new slimmer clasp. It’s a welcome improve, because the clasp incorporates a wetsuit extension and a toolless micro-adjustment system in a single. The brand new clasp may be adjusted in six steps, every measuring about 2.5mm, for a complete vary of 15mm.

Seiko additionally features a sturdy inexperienced Seichu-weave material strap upcycled from discarded fishing nets. The Prospex SPB501 Diver’s Watch 1965 Heritage PADI Particular Version is on the market now for €1,700.

Carrying the Seiko Prospex SPB501

On the wrist, the watch feels acquainted but refreshingly totally different. The brand new colorway and particular dial give this model a novel presence. Whereas Seiko has inexperienced Prospex fashions within the assortment, this new SPB501 stands out.

For those who zoom in on the dial, your eyes instantly go to the attribute PADI emblem that dominates its decrease half. It’s an incredible visible ingredient that allows you to know that Seiko takes its dive watches significantly. On account of the addition of the PADI emblem, the Prospex emblem has moved to the higher half of the dial beneath the Seiko emblem.

The inexperienced shade has a sure aquatic really feel, giving it a depth and richness that I like fairly a bit. The watch’s dimensions are additionally excellent for varied wrist sizes, and the bracelet with the brand new clasp provides super consolation. There’s a lot to love in regards to the Seiko Prospex SPB501, so in order for you one thing totally different from the usual fashions, try this new PADI Version.

The Seiko Prospex SRPL53 Diver’s Watch Mechanical PADI Particular Version

The second PADI Version is a particular model of Seiko’s present “Samurai” mannequin. The Seiko Prospex SRPL53 Diver’s Watch Mechanical PADI Particular Version follows the identical aesthetic because the 1965 Diver. I have to say, it’s an aesthetic that matches the Samurai properly. I reviewed the primary fashions of the present Samurai sequence and was completely satisfied to see a smaller case measurement together with some intelligent design updates.

The SRPL53 options the identical mixture of a inexperienced bezel insert and an emerald-green gradient dial. On high of that, the dial options the identical ocean-like sample because the beforehand mentioned 1965 Diver. Nevertheless, the general aesthetic is totally totally different as a result of the Samurai is a contemporary creation that doesn’t take direct cues from any historic Seiko divers from the Sixties. The sharp, angular strains of the case, the trendy font used for the bezel numerals, and the dial design utterly differ from the 1965 Diver, which is why this can be a nice duo of PADI Editions.

The Seiko Prospex SRPL51 Diver’s Watch Mechanical

However as Seiko is including one other Samurai mannequin to the gathering, let’s focus on that as properly. The Seiko Prospex SRPL51 shares the specs and general aesthetic with the PADI Version. The distinction from the PADI model is a change to a vibrant matte blue dial and bezel insert. Apart from that, the mannequin presents the identical case and specs because the SRPL53, so let’s go over them to get an concept.

The 2 new fashions characteristic a 41.7 × 49.5 × 12.3mm case with a 20mm lug spacing. Each watches are water-proof to 200 meters. Regardless of the distinction in dial floor, each characteristic the attribute lengthy, pentagonal indexes and a date window at 4:30. As you may see, the brand placement on the dials is barely totally different. As with the 1965 Diver PADI Version, the Prospex emblem has moved to the higher half of the SRPL53’s dial, making room for the PADI emblem. The common blue Samurai SRPL51 retains the Prospex emblem on the decrease half of the dial.

The brand new Samurai nonetheless feels contemporary

Seiko has paired the outsized indexes with a particular handset. The hour hand has a spearhead-like design, whereas the minute hand has a sword-style design that enhances the hour hand properly. Ending the handset is a slim seconds hand with a luminous arrow and a protracted, skinny tip. The fingers and indexes all characteristic an software of Seiko’s LumiBrite for good legibility at the hours of darkness.

Total, I really feel the Seiko designers did an incredible job updating the design of the Samurai. In comparison with its predecessor, the case feels much less angular and, due to this fact, flows extra properly. On high of that, the dial design feels balanced, and the totally different parts go properly collectively.

Contained in the case of each watches, Seiko makes use of its Seiko caliber 4R35. This 23-jewel in-house computerized motion operates at 21,600vph and presents 41 hours of energy reserve. As Seiko’s customary motion for inexpensive fashions, it’s a dependable energy prepare. The model signifies that the usual accuracy is between +45 and -35 seconds per day. Lastly, rounding off the look of each fashions is a three-row stainless-steel bracelet with a folding clasp.

The Seiko Prospex SRPL51 and SRPL53

Due to the smaller circumstances in comparison with their predecessors and the up to date designs, the 2 new Samurai watches are a pleasure to put on. On high of that, they match a bigger number of wrist sizes. Every watch has a definite type and attractiveness that may undoubtedly win individuals over. I most well-liked the SRPL53 PADI Version as a result of I just like the particular shade with the ocean-like sample over the usual blue model.

Having stated that, the blue model is a brilliant addition to the lineup as a result of we hadn’t seen a blue model of the up to date Samurai. As blue is a extremely popular shade with followers of dive watches, I don’t doubt that it’ll discover its option to them rapidly. Each watches can be found now at Seiko boutiques and chosen retailers worldwide. The inexperienced SRPL53 PADI Version prices €670, whereas the blue SRPL53 is on the market for €650.

Closing ideas on the brand new Seiko Prospex PADI Editions

Seiko’s PADI Editions have turn out to be a sequence to look ahead to, because the model all the time does one thing particular with the designs of those watches. Whereas not each version is likely to be for you, it’s a enjoyable, attention-grabbing sequence to maintain monitor of. I like these two new inexperienced PADI Editions due to their beautiful aquatic-looking dials. The mix of the dial sample and wealthy shade makes for a pleasant duo of latest collaborative efforts with PADI. Due to this, I’m certain they may enchantment to Seiko followers, significantly those that love diving on this planet’s seas or oceans.