Seiko SRPD51 (Blue Version)
I featured the Seiko SRPD dive-style watch twice on Ben’s Watch Club. This model launched with some controversy a few years back, replacing the discontinued fan-favorite Seiko SKX, despite costing more and having half the water resistance rating.
That would be telling half the story, though. While on paper, the SRPD isn’t spectacular, in person, this renewed version is more premium than the old SKX. It’s got great case polishing and brushing, along with a pleasing sunburst (on most color variants), an improved bracelet, and a modernized movement. The main downside is the lack of sapphire crystal, which is a standard from other brands at this cost. Overall, it still looks surprisingly premium; I’m sure this was intentional from the Seiko marketing department!
Standard Versions
While it costs more, the SRPD smokes the likes of most dive watches you’ll find on Amazon and provides you with a sporty watch that can suit a wide variety of occasions. The huge number of colors also means you’ll likely find the right combination for your wardrobe, unlike the limited selection of previous-gen SKX models.
Seiko SRPD Diver Specifications:
42.5mm diameter
13.4mm thickness
46mm lug to lug
Automatic Seiko 4R36 Movement
Stainless steel construction
Stainless steel bracelet
Hardlex crystal
10bar water resistance
Smaller Versions
More recently, Seiko introduced the spiritual successor to the SKX013, in the form of the Seiko SKX ‘Midi’. This is fundamentally the same watch as the above, but in a smaller 38mm case size. For those after a less bulbous, sleeker option (or just those with a thinner wrist), this is a better option. It currently comes in four colors at the time of writing.
Seiko SKX ‘Midi’ (Black Version)