Prospex Automatic Land Edition “Tortoise” Black Ref. SBDY113

Seiko introduces two stunning new colorways to this year’s well-received “Tortoise” Seiko Prospex collection, adopting a mainstream look reminiscent of classic Seiko Turtle models. Carrying the same 42mm stainless steel case and compass scale bezel, this latest model brings all the things we love about the Tortoise but now on the Seiko stainless steel bracelet, elevating the whole look of the watch with a more serious and utilitarian tone. 

We’ve seen many amazing diver’s watch offerings from the Prospex range here at Gnomon, many of them have arguably gained an immense cult following over the years, and for good reason. While many often associate the Prospex name with robust dive watches, tool watches meant for “Land” and “Air” sports also fall in this category. Today, Seiko brought us their latest addition to the Prospex family that dedicates itself to adventurers venturing on the Earth’s surface, a refreshing change from the regular dive watch we are used to seeing. Although at first glance, the watch appears very much like the iconic case of the Turtle, it is pretty much a timepiece meant for land exploration rather than diving in the deep depths of the ocean. A Land Turtle? Or an Onshore Turtle perhaps. Here’s a fitting name for this new release - say hello to the Seiko “Tortoise”. 

Seiko Prospex Automatic Land Edition “Tortoise” Black Ref. SBDY1113

The Prospex line up for Seiko has faithfully delivered exceptional timepieces for adventurous sports professionals ever since their release of Japan’s first ever diver’s watch back in 1965. With the blend of both traditional Japanese craftsmanship and state-of-the-art innovation, the Seiko Prospex range, meaning “Professional Specifications”, has grown to become an extensive collection, pushing the boundaries to create well-designed and stylish sports watches packing incredible value.

Based on the classic cushion case design of the venerable Seiko Ref. 6105-8110, the first of its kind that presents an asymmetrical case and integrated crown guards, this distinctive design has evolved to be most prominently seen on a spectacular dive watch we know today as the Seiko Turtle. Similarly, the Seiko Prospex Automatic Land Edition “Tortoise” Black Ref. SBDY113 carries this unique case shape in its 42.4mm stainless steel case, exhibiting a classic look that’s no stranger to us Seiko fanatics. Like the Turtle, the Tortoise wears extremely comfortable on the wrist credited to its slim case thickness of 11.7mm and a compact lug to lug distance of merely 45.2mm. The watch wears notably smaller, closer to a 40mm as a result of its short and stubby lugs.

Seiko in-house caliber 4R35  automatic movement

Finishing is well-defined and executed to a great level of detail, featuring a mix of a circular brushed finish on the top of the case and a high polish on the sides, creating a simple yet sharp appearance. To complement the rugged style of the watch, the SBDY113 is accompanied with Seiko’s 20mm 3-link style stainless steel bracelet, complementing the case finishes splendidly with fine satin brushing throughout. 

There are many obvious traits to the good ol’ Turtle, however, here is where the similarities end. One of the notable differences is clearly found on its new bezel, the Tortoise is equipped with a black bidirectional anodized aluminium bezel with a compass scale designed to provide a rough indication of direction, a useful feature especially when embarking on long, enduring expeditions in the wilderness. 

Mixture of case finishing for a premium feel

Whether on land or in the deep sea, dial legibility is without a doubt a crucial factor allowing the time to be read easily in adverse conditions. The Prospex Automatic Land Edition “Tortoise” Black Ref. SBDY113 displays a matte black dial encompassed by a matching black chapter ring. As always, Seiko provides a top-notch lume experience with their proprietary LumiBrite treatment on the distinct hands and applied indices, glowing exceptionally bright in dark lighting conditions. Without obscuring any of the hour indices, the date window is neatly tucked between 4 and 5 o’clock indices, keeping it subtly out of the way. Seiko stepped things up with the inclusion of a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protecting the dial, offering significantly higher scratch resistance compared to mineral crystals.

The Prospex Automatic Land Edition “Tortoise” Black Ref. SBDY113 is driven by the ever-reliable Seiko in-house caliber 4R35 automatic movement, a notable upgrade from the previous caliber 7S family of movements that were lacking in handwinding and hacking capabilities. This 23 jewel movement features a healthy power reserve of approximately 40 hours and beats at a rate of 21,600 beats per hour. Widely recognized as one of a ‘workhorse’ movement, the 4R35 boasts remarkable robustness from the proprietary Diashock anti-shock system and has a reputation to run reliably for an extended period of time without a service.

Seiko's LumiBrite

The movement is enclosed in a screw-in case back and a solid screen-down crown at the 4 o’clock position, the watch presents a capable ISO-certified water resistance of 200m, perfectly handling through wet terrain without a problem. Considering not being a dive watch, the water resistance is certainly commendable. Seiko really meant business for a tool watch, the back is engraved with “ground-to-air emergency signal” codes, these are codes to be described on the ground in emergency situations for easy recognition from search and rescue aircrafts.

Seiko impressed us with such an avant-garde release of a tool watch that is not a diver’s watch this time. The Prospex Automatic Land Edition “Tortoise” Black Ref. SBDY113 brings a familiar yet iconic design packed full of new exciting features. In the story of the hare and the tortoise, the tortoise surely showed us the race is won by being slow and steady. However, this tortoise definitely won our hearts with its striking design and impeccable Seiko performance.