Prospex Scuba 200M "Save The Ocean" - Ltd Ed 5000pcs Ref. SBDC187

The launch of the first diver’s watch in 1965 was met with positive applause from members of the 8th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition in 1966, following which the trademark 1968 diver’s watch came into being. Seiko’s heritage is replete with significant watches including the 1965 62MAS (the brand's pioneer dive watch) as well as the 1968 Hi-Beat Automatic Diver 300m. With Seiko downsizing many of its dive watches over the past couple of years into more ergonomic proportions for everyday wearing, the brand has used these two historical models as vintage benchmarks to create contemporary re-editions.

Seiko Prospex Scuba 200M "Save The Ocean" - Ltd Ed 5000pcs Ref. SBDC187 / SPB333

Fast forward to today, Seiko unveils a new reinterpretation of the 1968 diver’s watch in its Prospex collection that already surpasses boundaries and offers an assortment of quality timepieces for sports fans and swashbuckling explorers on both land and in water. As such, we introduce to you the Seiko Prospex Scuba 200 Save the Ocean - Limited Edition Ref. SBDC 187 with an inventory of 5000 pieces.

The latest Scuba 200 release from Seiko is part of their Save the Ocean (STO) Series. First started in 2018, the STO series is part of Seiko’s mission to help protect the world’s oceans now and for future generations and secure this legacy for divers everywhere. Seiko donates a portion of all STO proceeds to organisations that study and preserve the seas - you’d directly contribute to saving the oceans (literally) by purchasing any Seiko STO timepiece.

Original applied markers and handset from the Ref.6105

The new SBDC187 with vintage design cues that we are introducing today is no exception.  This retro-inspired model is illuminated by the design of the 1968 6105-8000 Automatic Diver but has its proportions significantly reduced for greater comfort. The SBDC171 measures 41mm in diameter, with a compact lug-to-lug measurement just below 47mm. At just 12.3mm in height, the SBDC171 belongs to the thinnest Prospex models in the market. Yet the compactness of the watch does not compromise on its specifications and quality.

The stainless steel case of the SBDC187 with a diamond shield case coating is reminiscent of the late-1960s, with its “Turtle” cushion shape, straight and sharp casebands, as well as circular brushed surfaces on top. Moreover the crown is positioned at 4 o’clock in the signature Seiko style. The remainder of the case emits a classic vibe, with a screw-down crown and a robust steel screwed caseback, assuring a solid 200-meter water-resistance. A sapphire crystal with internal anti-reflective coating protects the top of the SBDC171 that is also framed by a unidirectional rotating bezel. Showcasing an aluminum insert (silver with a white scale) entirely graduated with a 60-minute scale, this bezel also rotates on 120-clicks and prevents reverse rotation. 

Traditional cushion case gives it more inviting shape

The solidly silver textured dial of the SBDC 187 brings up to mind the Grand Seiko “White Birch” Ref. SLGH in which lends an overall premium and elegant look to the watch, making it perfectly suitable for formal meetings and even cocktail events. Conversely, the applied markers and Seiko’s diver handset augments the utilitarian and sporty vibe of the watch, making it a good professional dive watch for starter.

To top it up, the watch would be clasped firmly around your wrist with the The watch is worn on a flexible 5-link brushed steel bracelet with a folding clasp, push-buttons and diving extension, regardless of whether you are on land or underwater. If you decide to take a dive, the water resistance function and unidirectional rotating bezel would assure you of the time with its luminous hands. Look forward to easy readability regardless of lighting and environmental conditions.

Seiko's LumiBrite at its best

Powered by a 6R35 automatic movement, this 24-jeweled watch has a decent 70 hour power reserve, enabling you to go about his life without having to constantly wind it. That being said, the mechanical automatic winding (with manual winding) watch enables a precision with a daily difference between +25 seconds and  -15 seconds.

Whether you are a professional or recreational diver, or just an avid watch collector, this limited edition “Save The Ocean” SBDC187 watch would be a sleek addition to your wrist, and a value-for-money addition to your watch repertoire. With its reasonable price point and limited selection, it is no wonder that this timepiece is highly sought after globally.