Prospex PADI 200M Sumo Sapphire 3rd Gen Ref. SBDC179

The nickname Sumo was initially not the official name of this Prospex series of watches. Yet somehow the name stuck and is now acknowledged by Seiko itself. The name’s origins could be explained by some theories. The first theory is that of the robust, oversized countenance of the watch together with a thin 20mm bracelet. The second explanation lies in how the 12 o’clock marker looks like a Mawashi, the underwear donned by Japanese sumo wrestlers during a match. The third explanation lies in how the bezel’s shape is akin to the Dohyo or ring where Sumo takes place. 

Seiko Prospex PADI 200M Sumo Sapphire 3rd Gen Ref. SBDC179 / SPB325

Next, the connection between Seiko and PADI (which stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors), the world’s most trusted scuba diving training organization, also merits attention. Established in 1966 and based in the US, PADI offers an array of courses ranging from entry-level to relatively advanced recreational diver certification courses. This association is reported to have awarded over 27 million scuba certifications, in over 6,300 diving centers globally. 2016 marked the beginning of the partnership between PADI and Seiko via the first special edition, the ever reliable PADI Turtle SRPA21J1. Other editions with novel designs and updated materials have since surfaced. Today we introduce the Seiko Prospex PADI 200m Sumo Sapphire 3rd Gen Ref. SBDC179. 

New Seiko Calibre 6R35 With 70 Hours Power Reserve

This edition of the Seiko Sumo Prospex Diver alludes very much to the original concept of 2007. The bulky case with a small lug width of 20mm measures a 45mm diameter and boasts a height of 12.9mm. Furthermore, it has a lug-to-lug measurement of 52.6mm. The twisted lugs, the curved profile and the succession of large polished surfaces with thin brushed lines in-between adds to the appeal of this watch. Moreover, the 4 o’clock crown, a sturdy bezel that outlines a rather small dial, huge lugs and a circular shape retain the design of this latest Sumo almost like its predecessors.  

Iconic Sumo Case Design

The difference between this dive watch and earlier Sumo watches, however, is in the quality of the materials used. 2018 saw the introduction of a sapphire crystal with an inner anti-reflective coating for excellent readability. 2022 now welcomes the new Sumo with a glossy scratch-resistant ceramic bezel, a classic black dial and a more elegant-looking scale. The case and bracelet in the 2022 Sumo edition are still made of stainless steel but are now rendered even more scratch resistant and durable than before with a layer of Seiko’s Super-Hard Coating. Besides, this timepiece is also run by Seiko’s latest automatic caliber, 6R35, a notable upgrade from the workhorse 6R15. Although the watch still operates at 21,600 BPH (3 Hertz) with hacking and hand winding capabilities, it has increased jewels (24 jewels) and a superior power reserve of 70 hours. For even better visibility in the dark, the impeccable hour markers and hands are luxuriously coated with Seiko’s LumiBrite. 

Seiko's LumiBrite

All in all, for more than a decade, the Sumo is still a valuable Seiko dive watch to have in one’s collection. With a powerful movement and a superior power reserve, this watch is a testament of excellent casework, formidable durability and legibility.