Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver's PADI Special Edition Ref. SBDC205

As spring approaches, Seiko ushers in the season with a fresh wave of exceptional timepieces. This year, the Japanese watchmaker unveils a stunning lineup of reissues across its Presage and Prospex collections. Taking center stage is the Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage PADI Special Edition Ref. SBDC205—a striking revival of Seiko's iconic 1960s dive watch, updated with modern enhancements while staying true to its vintage roots. This special edition celebrates the spirit of ocean exploration and pays tribute to Seiko's enduring relationship with PADI, the world's largest diving organization. PADI® (Professional Association of Diving Instructors®) operates in 186 countries and territories, with a global network of over 6,600 dive centers and resorts and more than 128,000 professional members worldwide. Together, Seiko and PADI continue to champion a shared passion for the beauty and preservation of our oceans.

Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver's PADI Special Edition Ref. SBDC205

A well-received favourite among the Seiko community, the Seiko Prospex Divers 1965 Heritage PADI Special Edition continues the beloved design language of the 1965 Heritage series. With a diameter of 40mm, a compact lug-to-lug length of 46.4mm, a lug width of 20mm, and a thickness of just 13mm, it offers excellent wearability across a wide range of wrist sizes. As a thoughtful throwback to the original 62MAS, this model stands as the most petite timepiece within the Prospex lineup, blending vintage proportions with modern craftsmanship for everyday comfort and timeless appeal.

The Prospex has a stainless-steel case and a steel bracelet both treated with Seiko's Dia-Shield coatings that ensure scratch-protection and greater corrosion resistance. Additionally, the bezel of this watch has minimal free play in its smooth 120-click unidirectional rotations. Admire the mixture of satin brush and Seiko high polishing on the sides of the entire timepiece and the Zaratsu polished line on its case side that adds a modern twist to this vintage diver. Its dainty case allows for a more intricate and refined finishing as well.

New Seiko Calibre 6R55

Satin brushed and robust, the screw down case back ensures an impressive 300 meter water resistance, making this timepiece a reliable diving companion. The sterile screw down crown at the 3 o'clock position adds to its professional grade functionality. Branded with Seiko's iconic tsunami emblem, the case back also bears the "Special Edition" inscription, marking its exclusive status within the Prospex lineup. With lug holes on the sides, strap changes are quick and effortless. Another notable upgrade is the use of a double domed anti reflective sapphire crystal, replacing the usual Hardlex mineral glass for improved clarity and durability.

Sporting a beautiful emerald green gradient dial, the design of this Prospex is inspired by the way light pours through water and dances across the rippling surface when viewed from underwater. Enhancing its visual appeal, the dial features symmetrical applied hour markers for a balanced and refined look. Painted with long-lasting Lumibrite, the hands ensure excellent legibility even in the dark. Staying true to its roots, the watch revives the original 1965 handset design—complete with a sleek second hand accented in gleaming silver for a touch of vintage elegance.

Seiko's Zaratsu polished line

The metal bracelet features a newly developed clasp that allows for six fine adjustments of 2.5 millimeters each, offering a total adjustment range of approximately 15 millimeters. This enables the watch to adapt easily to changes in wrist size whether from wearing a wetsuit while diving or natural fluctuations throughout the day, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit in any situation.

This timepiece continues to use the automatic movement featured in previous 1965 Heritage models, the 6R55 caliber. Running at 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hertz), the movement includes both hacking and hand-winding functions for precise time setting and convenience. With 24 jewels and an impressive power reserve of 72 hours, it offers 22 hours more autonomy than the 7R and 6S calibers. This combination ensures reliable performance, accuracy, and endurance, making it perfectly suited for both everyday wear and demanding dive conditions.

Seiko's LumiBrite Luminous

More than just a vintage-inspired timepiece, the Seiko Prospex Divers 1965 Heritage PADI Special Edition Ref. SBDC205 is built to perform when it matters most. Created in collaboration with PADI, this special edition connects you to a global community of divers who share a deep passion for the ocean and adventure. Designed as a rugged tool watch, it can handle the pressures of deep diving while remaining comfortable and stylish enough for everyday wear. If you're looking for a watch that combines history, functionality, and a love for the sea, the SBDC205 is one you won't want to miss.

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