Prospex PADI “Great Blue” 200M Scuba Diver Solar Ref. SBDJ057

Before we get started, with much request since we introduced Seiko JDMs, we decided to bring in the MADE IN JAPAN Turtles meant for the Japanese Domestic Market, denoted by the "J" in the reference number and the "MADE IN JAPAN" at 6 on the dial. The Prospex SBDJ057 is a never seen before design within its form. The SBDJ057 is a JDM model made available only in Japan. The difference might be subtle but this means a lot for Seiko collectors.

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 “Great Blue” 200M Diver Scuba Solar Ref. SBDJ057.

Seiko Prospex PADI “Great Blue” 200M Scuba Diver Solar Ref. SBDJ057

Seiko Prospex PADI “Great Blue” 200M Diver Scuba Solar Ref. SBDJ057 is the latest addition to the “Prospex collection. Prospex for Seiko basically means "Professional Specification" that their timepieces in this category  are built with very high standards to be used by professionals. One of the most popular segment throughout the years is probably the robust dive watches within the collection. These are essentially tough watches, able to take a punch both on the drylands and ocean, and are built to last. Although there are many iconic examples in the stable, this particular 200m Scuba Solar is the latest expansion that takes a traditional dive watch silhouette. And  of course, the SBDN079 is a new value proposition that is popular among Seiko and dive watch collectors.


The all new Seiko bestow a traditional diver case that are easily recognised by many. Like the name suggest, the Prospex Diver Scuba is powered by Seiko's solar caliber V157, that when its fully charge it has a 10 month power reserve and an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. 

Seiko's solar caliber V147

The 200m water resistant stainless steel case measure 42.8mm case without the crown, but has a lug to lug length of only 49.2mm, and a height of only 10.7mm, thanks to its solar caliber. The watch comes in a popular vintage size now that anyone can truly enjoy. It encapsulate a  vintage sizing, while at the meantime allowing the wearer to enjoy Seiko’s modern craftsmanship. The bezel is blue ceramic and has large printed markings on it, with the first 15 minute markings in lighter shades of blue. It rotates buttery smooth into 120 positions has little to no free play in a clockwise direction. Sitting atop of the bezel is Seiko’s Hardlex.

Mixture of satin brush and Seiko high polishing on the sides can be seen on the whole watch, giving it a somewhat premium feel. The screw down crown at the conventional 3 o'clock position is easy for time setting. Moving to the back of the watch, the screw down case back allows 200m water resistant, and is also brushed, featuring the recognizable tsunami emblem that is staple on the other Seiko divers. The case does comes with lug holes allowing swapping of straps with ease.

Seiko's Lumibrite needs no introduction

The highlight of this Seiko Prospex PADI Scuba Diver has got to be the gradient wave textured dial. The most prominent being the nautical inspired dial done with a graduating oceanic aesthetic, whereby a kind of gradient tone that graduates from a dark blue at the bottom of the dial to an oceanic light blue color towards the top. Seiko has created a new wave pattern at lighter blue section on this model recalling the surface waves of the ocean, and recalling certain intricate motion just like the “great wave off Kanagawa” pictured by Hokusai. The hour markers and two-tone handset are kept with the classic design, and each individually applied with Seiko’s Lumibrite that glows ever-so brightly in the dark. Seiko Prospex Scuba Solar comes with a 22mm matching satin brushed stainless steel bracelet with polished connecting links.

In all, Seiko once again replicated another successful version of its all new solar dive watch, and the PADI Edition is probably one of the more exciting dive watch from Seiko in 2020. 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 gradient blue dial design based on the partnership serves as an essential factor that your purchase of one is actively supporting a brand who seeks to continue its dive-watchmaking legacy.