Seiko has amassed a huge following during its lifetime. Both the brand and its founder, Kintarō Hattori, were key figures in establishing Japan as a watchmaking hub. Seiko started off as a clock repair shop (Hattori Tokei Shūzensho), which Hattori began at age 21. After selling imported Swiss timepieces, Hattori eventually decided to manufacture his own, opening the ‘Seikosha’ factory in 1892. Ever since, the company has always been “one step ahead of the rest”, producing many milestone models for both Japan and the globe. These include Japan’s first-ever wristwatch in 1913 and the world’s first commercial quartz watch in 1969. With all of its technical innovation, it’s no wonder Seiko has built up a devout fanbase. In fact, its fans are so passionate that many of Seiko’s case shapes have been named by them. Today, we will be going through each one and recommending our favourites in this Ultimate Guide to Seiko Case Shapes.
Our Ultimate Guide to Seiko Case Shapes
Due to Seiko’s long lifespan, it has produced plenty of different case shapes in its time. Each has its distinctive character and attributes, which is partly what makes them so beloved to Seiko fans. But also, many of the case shapes are beloved for their names that match their quirky nature. These names actually originate from the fanbase’s affectionate nicknames for them and are usually based on the individualities of each case’s design. However, these names have stuck so strongly that even Seiko has adopted them. In our ultimate guide to Seiko case shapes, we will delve into six of these, namely: the Arnie, Monster, Samurai, Sumo, Tuna, and the Turtle.
The ‘Arnie’
The first case shape on our list is the Arnie. In short, the watch is named after Arnold Schwarzenegger who wore a 1982 Seiko Hybrid Driver model in two separate film roles. The first appearance was in Commando (1985), in which ‘Arnie’ Schwarzenegger wore it as ‘John Matrix’. It then also appeared two years later in Predator (1987), where the human Arnie played the character ‘Dutch’. Paying homage to these appearances and the actor himself, fans began referring to the case on this watch as ‘Arnie’. Eventually, Seiko released its own range under this title too.
Our Arnie Pick: Seiko Prospex Arnie Re-Issue Safari Solar Diver’s SNJ031P1
This Street Series ‘Arnie’ Safari Edition is the perfect opener to our ultimate guide to Seiko case shapes. A modern, solar-powered re-interpretation of the original worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger, this watch features a deep khaki colour scheme which gives even more character to its distinctive shape. For ultimate protection, the case comprises a plastic outer shell which houses the inner stainless steel case. In total, this measures 47.8 mm wide and 14.4mm deep, creating quite the impression on the wrist.
Framed within this chunky case is a black dial display. With bold luminescent baton indices and hands, the dial is both impactful and easily readable in low-light conditions. Moreover, at the top, a digital display gives the dial some more clarity and an added utilitarian edge. It boasts exceptional functionality, equipped with functions such as a perpetual calendar, an alarm, and a chronograph. Adding even more practicality to the watch is the LED light and the power-saving function. Seiko’s hardlex crystal provides a final seal of protection to the dial, which helps to lock in the model’s 200 metres of water resistance. Finally, completing this design is a silicone strap which ensures the Arnie is comfortable for everyday wear.
Interested in an Arnie of your own? Browse plenty more here.
The ‘Monster’
Next up is the ‘Monster’. The ‘monster’ takes its name from the bezel design in particular, which resembles a monster bearing its teeth. For instance, the case shape itself takes the form of a monster’s open mouth, whilst its chunky serrated edge resembles the teeth. Playful but powerful, it’s no wonder fans love the ‘Monster’.
Our Monster Pick: Seiko Men’s Prospex PADI Stainless Steel Bracelet Black Dial SRPE27K1
Designed for the sea, sky, and land, this Seiko Prospex is built for an adventure.
At the centre of its design is the beloved ‘monster’ shaped stainless steel case. At 42.4 mm wide, the case is an ergonomic size for optimal comfort. Within it beats an automatic mechanical 4R36 calibre movement, which has a power reserve of up to 41 hours. On the outside, the case design is complete with a unidirectional blue bezel, which features white numerals and a red key marker above the 12 o’clock position. Beneath this, a black dial with chunky luminescent hour markers and a white minute track immediately catches the eye. Its chunky central hands feature red accents, and their legibility is improved with a luminescent inlay. Similarly, enhancing the readability of the weekday and date display is the dial’s magnifying hardlex crystal. To top off the design, an elegant stainless steel bracelet secures the watch to the wrist using a three-fold clasp.
If the Monster has caught your eye, there are different colourways available here.
The ‘Samurai’
Echoing the company’s strong Japanese heritage, the ‘Samurai’ case shape is another fan-favourite. Samurai were the warrior class of premodern Japan, who eventually became the ruling class until the late 19th century. Fans nicknamed this shape after the Samurai as the case looks as if it’s been ‘sliced’ by a Samurai sword. This effect is particularly evident around the integrated lugs on the model, which take on an angular shape. Less rounded than the predecessors on this list, the ‘Samurai’ shape has a punchy look that so many love.
Our Samurai Pick: Seiko Men’s Prospex Black Silicone Strap Beige Dial SRPE37K1
With its timeless and versatile black and light beige colour scheme, we highly recommend this King Samurai watch.
Reinforcing the model’s strong ‘Samurai’ inspired design is its sturdiness. For example, its stainless steel case has a super-hard coating which acts as a shield against any damage. Moreover, it adds an extra layer of defence against damage to the watch’s automatic 4R35 calibre movement. Overlaying the case is a classic black ceramic bezel, which both frames and foregrounds the beige dial. As an attentive detail, the dial’s 3D pressed patterned texture echoes the geometric shape of the case. Moreover, it complements the strong baton indices and chunky hands, both of which are luminescent. Replacing the 3 o’clock marker is a magnified date display, which fits in well with the rest of the dial’s design. Protecting this design is a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating to improve clarity. With its 200 metres of water resistance and ergonomic accordion-style silicone strap, this King Samurai is the ultimate adventure companion.
There are many other different variations of the Samurai watch that you can look at too here.
The ‘Sumo’
Another case shape name that pays homage to Japanese culture is the ‘Sumo’. Sumo wrestling is a competitive, full-contact Japanese sport that dates back to the mid-16th century Edo period. Fans nicknamed the case shape after Sumo due to the shape of the hour marker at the 12 o’clock position. Its loosely triangular shape intersected by a line resembles ‘mawashi’, which is the traditional underwear worn by sumo wrestlers. Moreover, the strong sizing of the case is reminiscent of the burly build of the wrestlers.
Our Sumo Pick: Seiko Prospex Seascape ‘SUMO’ Solar GMT Diver SFK003J1
As the Prospex line’s first solar watch with a GMT function, the vibrant Sumo Seascape is more than deserving of a mention. Housed in the 45mm stainless steel case is its 5K65 calibre movement and green ‘seascape’ dial with a subtle pressed pattern. Upon it rest bold mixed luminescent indices, including the mawashi 12 o’clock hour marker. Complementing this are four assorted central hands, including a red GMT hand which displays the time in another time zone. Other useful functions of the watch include its 200-metre water resistance, luminescent features, and date display at 3 o’clock.
Framing the dial is a green bezel. Its classic design is printed with white numerals and it also rotates unidirectionally. Moreover, the bezel also helps to hold the watch’s anti-reflective sapphire crystal in place. As a final aesthetic touch, a stainless steel bracelet secures the watch snugly to the wrist. With its elegant colour scheme and silhouette, the Seascape Sumo certainly surpasses expectations.
If the Sumo is your favourite, you can browse through even more here.
The ‘Tuna’
Often conflated with the ‘Arnie’, the ‘Tuna’ case shape follows a very similar design. The name derives from the large diameter of the case as well as its roundness. Which, in addition to the serrated edge of the bezel, looks a lot like a tuna tin. Although this seems more of an offbeat nickname, Seiko fanatics have awarded it this name with the most affectionate intentions.
Our Tuna Pick: Seiko Prospex Antarctica Tuna ‘Save The Ocean’ SRPG59K1
The Seiko Prospex Antarctica Tuna ‘Save the Ocean’ has an icy-cool look to it that’s bound to win you many compliments. However, there is also a wealth of other things to love about it. The first is that, by buying the Antarctica Tuna, you will be contributing to a good cause. As Antarctica is its inspiration, Seiko donates proceeds from this model to various sea and environmental conservation organisations.
The careful attention to detail is also incredible on this watch. Sitting within its 43.2mm wide ‘tuna’ case is the model’s dial, which features a graduated colour and a wealth of texture. This design intends to mimic the icy Antarctic landscapes, in particular the varying colours caused by light reflections on ice. Additionally, as an added detail, visible small penguin footprints walk from one end of the dial to the other. These footprints represent the ever-decreasing population of Antarctica, and thus, the reason behind raising funds for conservation efforts.
Surrounding the dial is a stainless steel bezel, which contributes to the characteristic tuna tin-like appearance of the watch face. Silver-framed hands and dot indices echo its colour and are fitted with a luminescent inlay for low-light legibility. In addition to the date display between 4 and 5 o’clock, the model also boasts 200 metres of water resistance and a 41-hour power reserve. Finally, a hardlex crystal and stainless steel bracelet finish off the model’s icy design.
If you’re a fan of the Tuna, you might also like the others that are available here.
The ‘Turtle’
Last but not least, is the Seiko ‘Turtle’ case shape. Resembling a turtle’s shell, this case shape features an elongated oval silhouette. As a result, it’s easy to see where the fanbase’s inspiration came from with this name. However, above just superficially, this nickname is also symbolically apt too. For divers, turtles are also a symbol of good fortune, which fits well with the diver’s style of the watch.
Our Turtle Pick: Seiko Turtle Origin Modern Re-interpretation Black Dial SPB315J1
Our final recommendation in our ultimate guide to Seiko case shapes is this Turtle Origin model. This particular watch is one of our favourites, as it reimagines the original Turtle model from 1968. At its centre is a black dial with various strong gold accents, such as the outer minute track, the bezel indices, and the framing on the dial’s indices and hands. Moreover, adding to both their value and practicality, they are also luminescent. Sandwiched between 4 and 5 o’clock is a date display, which is deliberately positioned so that it doesn’t interfere with the indices. A curved anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the dial and offers maximum protection.
In addition to its vintage-inspired design, there are some modern updates to the model. For instance, the 5-row stainless steel bracelet features newly developed compact clasps that correspond with its slim case.
The Seiko Turtle Origin is also one of the most mechanically capable on our list. Its automatic mechanical movement is the 6R35 calibre, which boasts a generous power reserve of up to 70 hours. Additionally, like its colleagues on this list, the watch maintains an impressive 200 metres of water resistance.
If you want a more modern looking Turtle, there are many more to choose from here.
And that concludes our Ultimate Guide to Seiko Case Shapes! We hope that you enjoyed learning about all of the fan-named favourites as much as we did. As an official Seiko retailer, you can find all of the watches mentioned in this guide and even more of them here.
Which is your favourite Seiko case shape? Let us know in the comments below!
