Seiko, the renowned Japanese watchmaker, has been a trusted name in the world of diving watches since it introduced its first diver's watch, the 62MAS, in 1965. This legendary lineage of durable, water-resistant, and precise diver's timepieces continues with the introduction of three re-imagined classics, each drawing inspiration from some of America's most challenging cold-water diving locations.
The SPB419, SPB421, and SPB423 are the stars of this new Prospex U.S. Special Editions collection, and they are as distinctive as the locations that inspired them.
The SPB419 pays homage to Michigan's breathtaking blue ice. Along the northern Great Lakes coastline, Michigan's unique blue ice forms slowly and evenly, creating large crystal-like structures that allow light to penetrate deeply. This phenomenon results in stunning, vivid blue ice formations. Seiko has captured this essence in the icy-blue gradation dial of the SPB419.
The SPB421 and SPB423 models take inspiration from Alaska's remote glacial moulins. Named after the French word for "mill," these glacial water tunnels are challenging and daring environments that only the most skilled divers explore. Formed when meltstreams penetrate a glacier's surface, these natural wonders can reach depths of hundreds of meters. The SPB421 features a dark blue dial with a subtle gradation, evoking the colors seen at the depths of these moulins. In contrast, the SPB423 highlights the light gray tones of glacial ice with its gradated dial.
While these watches pay tribute to the classic design of Seiko's first diver's watch, they've been modernized for today's enthusiasts. Each model boasts a 40.5mm diameter and is powered by the advanced Caliber 6R35 self-winding mechanical movement. This 24-jewel movement operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and maintains an impressive 70-hour power reserve when fully wound.
These watches are engineered for diving, with a water resistance of 200 meters and compliance with relevant ISO standards. They feature a screw-down crown and a unidirectional bezel that complements the patterned dial. Comfort and security are paramount, with a three-link stainless steel bracelet equipped with a tri-fold push-button release clasp and a diving suit extension.
The 2023 Prospex U.S. Special Editions are exclusive to the United States and will be available at select Seiko retailers starting in September 2023. Each watch comes with a suggested retail price of $1,250.
Seiko's Prospex U.S. Special Editions, including the SPB419, SPB421, and SPB423, continue the legacy of exceptional diver's watches, offering enthusiasts a blend of style, functionality, and a tribute to some of America's most challenging diving locales.
Model | SPB419 | SPB421 | SPB423 |
---|---|---|---|
Caliber | Seiko 6R35 | Seiko 6R35 | Seiko 6R35 |
Frequency | 21,600 vibrations per hour | 21,600 vibrations per hour | 21,600 vibrations per hour |
Power Reserve | Approximately 70 hours | Approximately 70 hours | Approximately 70 hours |
Number of Jewels | 24 | 24 | 24 |
Case Material | Stainless steel with super-hard coating | Stainless steel with super-hard coating | Stainless steel with super-hard coating |
Diameter | 40.5mm | 40.5mm | 40.5mm |
Thickness | 13.2mm | 13.2mm | 13.2mm |
Dial Color | Vivid blue patterned | Dark blue patterned | Grey-blue patterned |
Lume | Yes, Seiko's LumiBrite | Yes, Seiko's LumiBrite | Yes, Seiko's LumiBrite |
Water Resistance | 200m | 200m | 200m |
Bracelet | Steel bracelet with super-hard coating | Steel bracelet with super-hard coating | Steel bracelet with super-hard coating |
Price (USD) | $1,250 | $1,250 | $1,250 |
To find out more about Seiko you can read our guides where we cover the legendary SeikoSKX007 or the guide to the Marine Master collection.
We have also covered the Grand Seiko Spring Drive in our latest watch releases.