Seiko’s Popular Diver: Prospex 1968 Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation GMT, SPB381

Seiko’s Popular Diver: Prospex 1968 Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation GMT, SPB381

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The Prosper SPB381 is a modern reinterpretation of Seiko’s iconic 1968 diver’s watch. This piece highlights the brand’s first-ever mechanical GMT movement incorporated into a diver’s watch.
Seiko Prospex diver’s watches are among the best-known and most popular watches in the world. They are famous for being the first diving watches designed to ISO 6425 standards. The first Seiko Prospex diver’s watch, released in 1965, was designed to meet the rigorous safety standards required for professional-level dive watches. They have remained as preferred choice for both the professional and recreational diver. They combine the perfect combination of form and function with a rugged design that can handle any adventure. Prospex watches feature a classic design that has been adapted over the years to accommodate modern tastes and preferences.

The first Seiko Prospex diver's watch, 1965

The Prospex SPB381 surpasses the performance of Seiko’s entry-level GMT models, presenting a more refined design and incorporating advanced features. It proudly houses the new caliber 6R54, a notable upgrade from the 4R34 utilized in Seiko 5 GMT watches. This movement showcases an impressive power reserve of approximately 72 hours, surpassing the capabilities of any other Seiko mechanical watch.

Seiko Prospex SPB381

The Prospex SPB381 is a perfect blend of aesthetics, functionality, and durability. The watch features a rich green dial framed by a Made-in-Japan green ceramic uni-directional rotating elapsed timing bezel. The dial showcases a date calendar, gold GMT hand, and large LumiBrite markers and hands for enhanced legibility.

New caliber 6R54

Constructed from stainless steel with a super-hard coating, the Prospex SPB381’s case measures 42mm in diameter, providing a robust and masculine presence on the wrist. The case sides are mirror-finished, enhancing the watch’s luxurious appeal. The watch also features a screw down crown and caseback, ensuring water resistance up to 200 meters, making it suitable for scuba diving.
The SPB381 comes with a new three-link, slim profile bracelet, which sits comfortably on the wrist. Coupled with a tri-fold push-button release clasp with secure lock and extender, the bracelet ensures a secure fit, enhancing the overall wearing experience.

Seiko Prospex SPB381

Under the hood, the Prospex SPB381 is powered by Seiko’s new caliber 6R54. This is the brand’s first mechanical GMT movement in a diver’s watch. The automatic GMT movement beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers manual winding capability. The GMT hand can be set independently in one-hour increments, without interrupting the time-of-day hands, providing a second time zone reading at a glance.
Moreover, the caliber 6R54 provides a power reserve of approximately 72 hours, the longest of any Seiko mechanical watch. This 24-jewel automatic GMT movement further cements Seiko’s reputation as a leader in watchmaking innovation.
The GMT hand can be set independently in one-hour increments, making it ideal for tracking a second time zone. This feature sets the Prospex SPB381 apart from other dive watches, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently travel across different time zones.

Seiko Prospex SPB381

Despite the added GMT functionality, the Prospex SPB381 remains a full-fledged diver’s watch. The Prospex SPB381 is designed to withstand extreme conditions. It retains the 60-minute timing bezel and a 200-meter water resistance, making it suitable for underwater exploration. The ceramic bezel enhances the watch’s durability, protecting it from scratches.
Prospex SPB381, a reinterpretation of the 1968 diver’s watch, celebrates a rich history of sports watch expertise while showcasing innovative features like the brand’s first mechanical GMT movement in a diver’s watch. Whether for professional or recreational use, the Prospex SPB381 is a testament to Seiko’s commitment to technical excellence, style, and durability.

Seiko Prospex SPB381

For more information about the Seiko Prospex SPB381, visit the official Seiko website.

Seiko Prospex SPB381 Specs and Price

Case: 42mm x 12.9mm; stainless steel, ceramic bezel, 200m water resistance
Dial: Green, Lumibrite on hands and indexes
Movement: Automatic 6R54 movement, 21,600 vibrations per hour (6 beats per second), 72 hours power reserve
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet, secure lock, and extender
Price: USD 1,500