Seiko's first diver's watch was born in 1965. With water resistance to 150m and an automatic movement, it proved its high quality and reliability when worn by members of the 8th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition in 1966. Thanks to the positive reaction of the members of the expedition on their return, Seiko's diver's watches were chosen by the same research team between the years 1966 and 1969, during which time the landmark Seiko diver's watch with 300m water resistance and a 10-beat automatic movement was created, in 1968. New for 2022, Seiko introduces into the Prospex collection a new interpretation of that hallmark 1968 diver's watch. The watch will join the Save the Ocean series in support of several different marine conservation initiatives. Furthermore, this watch will be worn by members of the 63rd Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition's mission to Antarctica.
While the design reflects its heritage, every aspect of this new creation exemplifies the high levels of diver's watch technology for which the Prospex collection is renowned. The case, bezel and crown are all made of Seiko's Ever-Brilliant Steel, a special grade of stainless steel which is uniquely corrosion-resistant. To further ensure the watch's durability, the crown is not screwed directly into the case but locked into a separate component that is built into the case and so can be more easily replaced.
The watch is powered by Caliber 8L35 which was developed especially for diver's watches and is hand-assembled by the craftsmen and at the Shizukuishi Watch Studio in northern Japan. The movement's rigidity and accuracy ensure the highest possible levels of performance in the most demanding environments, both on land and under water. In addition to its durable rubber strap, this Seiko Diver is supplied with a fabric strap which incorporates the traditional Seichu braiding technique.
Information:
Reference: SLA057
MSRP: $4600
Dated: 2023
Limited: 600 Pieces
Bezel Aligns
Bracelet: Silicone Strap and Unworn Polyester strap
Case Size: 42.6mm x 13.1mm Thickness
Lug Width: 20mm
Case Metal: Ever Brilliant Steel
Movement: 8L35 - Automatic
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty card
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.75”
Condition: Great pre owned condition
Case is in great shape with light normal wear. Silicone strap is in like new condition and NATO is unworn. Dial, hands, and crystal are in perfect shape. Watch is running spec.
History of Seiko Watches
Seiko's history began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a watch shop in Tokyo. In 1892, he established Seikosha, a factory for producing wall clocks. The company quickly progressed, creating Japan's first wristwatch, the Laurel, in 1913. Despite setbacks like the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, Seiko persevered, launching its first watch under the Seiko brand name in 1924.
The post-World War II era saw Seiko's rapid growth and innovation. They introduced Japan's first automatic wristwatch in 1956 and launched the prestigious Grand Seiko line in 1960. Seiko achieved international recognition for accuracy in 1968, winning a Geneva Observatory competition.
The company made a name for its divers in 1965 with the introduction of their first professional dive watch, the 62MAS. This was followed by the iconic 6159-7001 in 1968, which was water-resistant to 300 meters. Seiko gained international recognition in 1975 with the release of the 6159-7010, nicknamed the "Tuna Can" due to its distinctive case shape. In 1969, they revolutionized the industry with the Astron, the world's first quartz wristwatch, ushering a new era of watchmaking that would send waves across the industry through the 70s and 80s. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global watchmaking giant, Seiko's history is characterized by resilience, technological advancement, and a commitment to precision.
