Prospex 200M Automatic Turtle The Black Series Ref. SBDY127

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.

The new SBDY127 with minimalistic design cues that we are introducing today is no exception. This model is inspired by the classic Seiko "turtle" design first launched in 1976 referenced as 6306-7000/1. The SBDY127 measures 45mm in diameter, with a compact lug-to-lug measurement of 47.7mm. At just 13.2mm in height, the SBDY127 follows the measurements of past series, making it a comfortable and familiar fit for all.

Seiko Prospex 200M Automatic Turtle The Black Series Ref. SBDY127 / SRPK43

The stainless-steel case of the SBDY127 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 clean and seamless 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 SBDY127 that is also framed by a unidirectional rotating bezel. The bezel's grooves gets more angular and distinct, it allows better grip and rotates buttery smooth into 120 positions has little to no free play in a clockwise direction. Sitting atop of the bezel is another Seiko's latest upgrade; a flat sapphire crystal with the elongated magnifying Cyclop for its day/date display at the 3 o'clock position. True to Japanese Domestic Models, the day can be switch between Japanese and English wording.

4R36 JDM Movement

Additionally, the matte black dial and turquoise blue hands and markers of the SBDY127 shares a tried-and-tested design with various other watches from the Prospex range, entailing the applied markers and oversized luminous hands. That being said, Seiko has selected the retro "shovel" shaped hand with luminous and red tip for the Additionally, the matte white dial and dark-coated hands and markers of the SBDY127 shares a tried-and-tested design with various other watches from the Prospex range, entailing the applied markers and oversized luminous hands. That being said, Seiko has kept the hour markers and two-tone handset with the usual Samurai's design, and each individually applied with Seiko's Lumibrite that glows ever-so brightly in the dark.

Powered by Seiko's automatic calibre, 4R36, operating at 21,600 BPH (3 Hertz) with hacking and hand winding capabilities. It has 24 jewels with a power reserve of 40 hours. Featuring the 200m water resistance and anti-magnetic properties.

Seiko's LumiBrite

The watch is worn on a classic sport brushed steel bracelet. The details extend further with a mixture of mirror-polished and brushed finishes on the bracelet.

In all, Seiko once again added another seamless and iconic design to the black series collection. And one of the few watches that is worthy to be in any dive watch collection. With its excellent price point and good value for money, it is a watch that will probably find itself onto the wrist of most Seiko buyers. The unique black design serves as an essential factor that your purchase of one is actively supporting a brand who seeks to continue its dive-watchmaking legacy.