Seiko has just released a new iteration of its Black Series dive watch. Made in four models, the SPB253J1, SPB255J1, SPB257J1, and SLA061J1, the Seiko Prospex Special Black Series Limited Edition is meant to evoke the wondrous world of the inky depths. The 1965 Mechanical Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation SPB253J1 sports a mid-case with minimal beveling, squared lugs, and a 3-o’clock crown providing the standard diver look. Its stainless-steel case is quite wearable at 40.5mm in diameter. The 1968 Seiko Mechanical Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation SPB255J1 has a beveled 42mm case, angled lugs, and 4-o’clock crown. The rectangular and circular hour markers break up the dial for higher legibility.
The 1970 Mechanical Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation SPB257J1 has a case that is 42.7mm in diameter, but with its unique shape, it creates a lug-to-lug length of 46.6mm. Finally, the 1970 Mechanical Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation SLA061J1 is perhaps the most refined of this new Black Series. With the date display at 4 o’clock, the matte black case is offset by polished sides. With its light accents of orange on the seconds hand, combined with the glossy black bezel insert and textured black dial, this is a truly elegant black watch.
In homage to the Japanese braiding method known as Seichu, the SPB253J1, SPB255J1, and SPB257J1 are finished with a strong fabric strap that resists breaking down under harsh sunlight. The SLA061J1 forgoes the fabric strap and comes on its own black three-link bracelet with polished accents. The bracelet is in line with its other refined elements, and the watch also comes with an additional silicone strap.
For another recent release from Seiko, check out the Classic King Seiko Collection.
