Seiko is one of the biggest names in the horological industry. We have put together this list of 5 things you should know before buying a Seiko to help you in choosing your next timepiece. Seiko has been making watches since 1881 and has worked under the Seiko brand name since 1924. This gives the brand a wealth of experience making it one of the most trusted and well-respected brands in the industry. Many collectors turn to Seiko when they are searching for a high-quality timepiece and many are drawn in by the brand’s huge portfolio of limited and special edition watches.
The brand prides itself on having been a great innovator in watchmaking. Seiko created the first quartz watch, starting a wave of great change and progression in the industry. In more recent years, the brand introduced the first GPS solar watch that has an incredibly high level of accuracy. Seiko is a fascinating brand that deserves a place in every collection. If you are searching for a Seiko timepiece, keep reading for 5 things you should know before buying a Seiko.
5 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Seiko
1. There are lots of special editions.
Seiko is famous for its huge portfolio of special edition timepieces. Over the years, the brand has created a large number of watches in collaboration with individuals, franchises and film and television series. Seiko has also worked with a number of charities and donated the proceeds from the timepieces to these good causes. Special and limited editions are always very collectable and are often in high demand. These special edition watches tend to exhibit unique design features that make them stand out from the brand’s other timepieces. This ensures that the watch can become a great conversation piece and will be the focal point of any outfit.
Seiko 5 Sport Red Special II Brian May Limited Edition | Automatic SRPH80K1
This watch is one of Seiko’s latest limited-edition models. The watch was created in collaboration with musician Brian May who is a long-standing fan of the brand. May has worked with Seiko before and each collaboration has proven to be a great success. This watch is an incredibly collectable piece amongst both Seiko enthusiasts and Brian May fans due to its unique features and bold designs. The dial features the outline of May’s ‘Red Special’ guitar and the strap is designed to look like guitar strings. The watch comes in a guitar case-like box alongside a specially designed lucky sixpence, just like the one that May uses to play the guitar. This model is powered by an automatic movement which is housed in a gold plated stainless steel case.
2. Some Seiko watches have special functions.
When purchasing any watch, it is always best to assess your own unique needs and requirements before jumping into a purchase. A watch is a very personal accessory, so it is important that the wearer will use and enjoy every feature that a watch offers. Seiko watches are often designed with a different set of features and functions. This means that there is a perfect model for every collector, from the most simple dress watches to incredibly complicated chronographs. However, extra complications can get in the way if not being properly utilised so it is best to research timepieces and their functions to decide which is best for you.
Seiko Men’s Chronograph Watch Green Dial Black and Green Strap SSB411P1
This Seiko watch has a relatively complicated dial, but it is still clear enough to read at a glance. The watch features a dark green dial that is perfectly on-trend for the upcoming seasons. This dial is adorned with three sub-dials alongside a date display. These sub-dials provide a chronograph and a 24-hour hand function to the timepiece. A black tachymeter display runs around the outside of the dial to provide an additional utility. This watch is powered by a quartz movement that is housed within a black plated stainless steel case. The timepiece is secured on the wrist using a black, grey and green striped fabric strap. Additionally, this watch is water-resistant up to 100 metres, making it a very practical choice for daily wear.
3. There is a perfect Seiko for every collector.
A short browse through Seiko’s catalogue will show that no two watches are the same. Seiko creates watches within its range of iconic collections, but each timepiece has a totally unique sense of style. This means that there is sure to be a timepiece to match the personal style of every collector. The brand has a series of famous case shapes, such as the ‘tuna’ and ‘monster’ that are instantly recognisable to fans of the brand. Although these watches all have the same silhouette, the dials and straps of each individual model are distinct.
Seiko 5 Sport | Compact | Beige Dial | Beige Leather Strap | Automatic Watch SRE005K1
The neutral colour palette of this watch makes it a perfect choice to stay in line with the current trends. Many people are choosing to adorn themselves in neutral, beige tones and this watch will fit perfectly into a wardrobe like this. The watch will also pair well with bold colours. The watch features a beige dial with a matching beige leather strap. Leather straps are a very classic and timeless option for watches, making them a great choice for a timepiece that will be worn every day. The dial of the watch is decorated with luminous hands and indices alongside a weekday and date aperture. This timepiece is powered by a reliable automatic movement.
4. Some Seiko watches have a very high water resistance.
Every individual has different requirements from their timepieces. Due to this, a prospective Seiko customer ought to assess the level of water resistance they require from a watch before purchasing a timepiece. A high level of water resistance can increase the cost of a timepiece considerably, so the highest ratings tend to be recommended to divers and regular swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Seiko offers some watches that are built for diving. This means that every single element of these timepieces has been specially designed for diving and deep water.
Seiko Men’s Prospex Tuna Divers | Black Silicone Strap S23631J1
This watch comes from the Prospex ‘Tuna’ Professional 1000m Divers Collection. This means that the watch has been expertly manufactured for diving. This watch is water-resistant up to 1000 metres, or 100 bar, making it suitable for almost every water-based activity. This makes this watch a great choice for professional divers. The case shape of this model is fondly referred to as the ‘Tuna’ as fans of the brand have said that it resembled a tuna tin. The dial is black with luminous hands and indices to ensure that the time can be read whilst deep underwater. This model also features a rotating bezel and a weekday and date display. The watch is secured on the wrist using a black silicone strap that will be comfortable to wear, even when wet.
5. Seiko always uses high quality materials.
As with any high-end or luxury watch manufacturer, Seiko ensures to always use high-quality materials in its timepieces. This means that each watch will last far longer and will perform better over the years. The brand uses a variety of materials in its timepieces, ensuring that every choice provides the best experience for the wearer. The majority of the brand’s watch cases are made from high-quality stainless steel for a durable finish. However, some of the brand’s models have a more luxurious feel with gold platings or titanium details.
Seiko Men’s Quartz Titanium Blue Dial SUR371P1
This model exhibits a sleek and simple design that will pair perfectly with any outfit for any occasion. The detail of this watch is in its materials rather than in the dial or design of the watch. The grey-blue dial is adorned with silver baton indices and silver hour, minute and second hands alongside a date display. A case made from titanium frames the dial. Titanium is a very desirable material in watchmaking and is often considered an incredibly luxurious choice. This metal is very lightweight whilst being durable, striking a perfect balance between style, comfort and longevity. The bracelet of this model is also crafted from titanium.
What are your thoughts on these 5 things you should know before buying a Seiko? Do you have any other tips to share? Let us know in the comments!
