In the world of horology, Seiko has once again demonstrated its penchant for commemorating milestones with limited-edition timepieces. This time, the brand celebrates its 145th anniversary, a testament to its rich history that began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened his shop, 'K. Hattori,' in Tokyo's Ginza district. Hattori's legacy includes producing Japan's first wristwatch, the iconic Laurel, in 1913. While the anniversary models may not directly mirror the style of these historical pieces, they undeniably carry the essence of Seiko's signature blue, a color introduced in the 1960s and now synonymous with the brand.
The Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005
The first of these anniversary releases is a vibrant take on the 1965 Heritage Diver, a direct homage to Seiko's inaugural dive watch, the 62MAS. This limited edition, based on the 2024 update, boasts refined dimensions, a 300m water resistance rating, and an overall sleek execution. The HBC005 features a steel case and bracelet with a super-hard coating, an aluminum bezel insert in Seiko Blue, and a lightly brushed silvery-white dial with luminous raised hour markers. The blue seconds hand adds a pop of color, complementing the bezel. Powering this timepiece is the modern caliber 6R55, offering a 3-day power reserve. The bracelet, a classic 3-link design, benefits from an updated clasp with a micro-adjustment system, allowing for easy length adjustments. Limited to 4,000 pieces, the HBC005 will be available worldwide in June 2026 for EUR 1,500.
The Prospex Samurai HBB001
The second model, also celebrating Seiko Blue, is based on the brand's iconic Samurai watch. This updated version, part of the 145th anniversary collection, features a more compact case, making it more wearable and distinct from previous Samurai generations. The angular design, as its name suggests, is a nod to the Samurai's sharp and capable diver heritage, with a 200m water resistance rating. The two-tone aluminum bezel insert, in silver and Seiko Blue, adds a modern twist. The silver brushed dial, darker than the Heritage Diver, showcases the signature pointy embossed markers, with a matching blue seconds hand. Inside ticks the reliable caliber 4R35, an entry-level automatic movement with a 3Hz frequency and a 40-hour power reserve. The HBB001 is limited to 9,999 pieces, available from June 2026, and priced at EUR 650.
A Deeper Look
These anniversary releases showcase Seiko's ability to blend its rich history with modern design and functionality. The use of Seiko Blue, a color deeply rooted in the brand's heritage, adds a unique and recognizable element to these timepieces. The attention to detail, from the refined dimensions to the updated clasps and bezels, demonstrates Seiko's commitment to innovation while paying homage to its past. These limited editions are not just watches; they are pieces of Seiko's legacy, offering a glimpse into the brand's evolution and its enduring appeal.
