Prospex Diver Fieldmaster SOLAR X LOWERCASE Ed. Ref. SBDJ029

We look at Seiko predominantly for having bang for bucks mechanical dress or sports models in their collection for many years. Focusing on the Seiko’s Prospex watches; where Prospex for Seiko means "Professional Specification" that their timepieces in this category are built with very high standards to be used by professionals.
 

Seiko Prospex Diver Fieldmaster SOLAR X LOWERCASE Ed. Ref. SBDJ029

The collection is divided into Sky, Land, and Sea. Today we will like to introduce to you yet another military style edition, in addition to this year Land’s Fieldmaster collection - the Prospex Diver Fieldmaster SOLAR X LOWERCASE Ed. Ref. SBDJ029.

Based on the 2017 Fieldmaster case, The Fieldmaster SBDJ029 Solar has a 200m water-resistant “Field Tuna” case, with the size of 44mm wide X 44mm long. It bears a close resemblance to the “Tuna Can” design due to the outer shroud that gives the watch a tool watch aesthetic with additional protection. Furthermore, like all Seiko’s Tuna Can watches, it wears smaller than the dimensions suggest, partly due to its round case and shot lugs architecture.
 

Unique cream dial with caramel burnt out effect

Moreover, it weighs in at a light 69g, letting wearer forget easily that it is on the wrist until one needed to check the time. Combine this with a Seiko military green nylon Nato strap that adds on to the comfortability and tactical look. As always, legibility is tops on this Fieldmaster Edition.

As suggested by the name of this edition, the military theme is at center stage. The Prospex Diver Fieldmaster SOLAR X LOWERCASE Ed. Ref. SBDJ029 features a military-inspired dial. Seiko uses Arabic numerals from one to 12 for its hour markers, followed by 24-hour markings on the inner side.
 

Tuna Inspired Case Construction

What's more, Seiko has created a dial with impressive “faux patina” application; its base is cream in color with a little caramel burnt-out effect surrounding the dial, giving the SBDJ029 a tropical effect. Very typical looking of a military watch straight from the 1940s.

Another nod to the military package, where Seiko opted with cathedral style hour and minute hands. these were used before by on its now discontinued tool watch; the Seiko Alpinist Sarb017. The hour markers and hands are both generously coated with Seiko's LumiBrite allowing it to glow brightly in the dark for hours.

The theme continues with the bezel insert, which features a unique countdown bezel. A classic countdown bezel operates in reverse of a dive watch style bezel, whereby showing you how much remaining time you have, and usually these type can be found on pilot affiliated watches.
 

Seiko's Lumibrite Luminous

The Seiko Military Cream SBDJ029 uses their proprietary Solar caliber V157 that operates for a good 10 months when fully charged. It has an accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month. Another unique feature of the movement includes a quick-start and over-charge prevention system.

To sum things up, the Seiko Prospex Diver Fieldmaster SOLAR X LOWERCASE Ed. Ref. SBDJ029 is probably one of the Fieldmaster models all the Seiko collectors who are interested in a rugged and military-theme Seiko tool watch. Its 1940s vintage dial tone is something that is not seen before. And one of the few watches that is worthy to be in any 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.