Seiko's 145th anniversary collection is a celebration of the brand's rich history, and it's no surprise that they've released two stunning limited-edition watches: the Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 and the Prospex Samurai HBB001. These timepieces are a testament to Seiko's commitment to innovation and style, offering a fresh take on classic designs while paying homage to the brand's heritage.
The Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 is a modern interpretation of Seiko's first-ever dive watch, the 62MAS. With a slightly reduced size, it measures 40mm by 13mm, making it more wearable without compromising on its rugged appeal. The case and bracelet are crafted from steel with a super-hard coating, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance. The standout feature is the blue aluminum bezel, a nod to the signature Seiko Blue introduced in the 1960s. The dial, in a silvery-white brushed finish, features embossed, luminous hour markers and a blue seconds hand, creating a striking contrast. Inside, the watch houses the calibre 6R55, an automatic movement with a 3Hz frequency and a generous 72-hour power reserve.
One of the most impressive aspects of the HBC005 is its bracelet, which includes a micro-adjustment system. This allows for a 15mm range of adjustment, easily extended or shortened in six 2.5mm increments by pressing the side buttons. This level of customization ensures a perfect fit for any wrist, making it a highly practical and user-friendly feature. Limited to 4,000 pieces, the HBC005 is priced at EUR 1,500 and will be available worldwide from June 2026.
In contrast, the Prospex Samurai HBB001 takes inspiration from the iconic Samurai watch, a staple in Seiko's portfolio. The updated Samurai platform features a more compact case, measuring 41.7mm in diameter with a thickness of 12.3mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 49.5mm. This smaller size makes it more accessible to a wider range of wearers while retaining the angular, sharp aesthetic that defines the Samurai series. The watch boasts 200m water resistance, making it a capable diver.
The HBB001's bezel is a two-tone affair, with the 0-to-15-minute scale rendered in a silver tone and the rest in Seiko Blue. The dial, in a darker silver brushed finish, showcases the signature pointy embossed markers and a blue-colored seconds hand, creating a harmonious color scheme. Powering the watch is the calibre 4R35, an entry-level automatic movement with a 3Hz frequency and a 41-hour power reserve. The watch is equipped with a 3-link steel bracelet and a classic folding clasp, ensuring comfort and ease of use.
Limited to 9,999 pieces, the HBB001 is priced at EUR 650 and will be available from June 2026. Both watches are part of Seiko's 145th anniversary collection, celebrating the brand's journey from its founding in 1881 by Kintaro Hattori to becoming a renowned watchmaker. While the style of these watches may not mirror the past, the colors and designs pay homage to Seiko's rich history, particularly the introduction of Seiko Blue in the 1960s.
In my opinion, these limited-edition watches are a must-have for any enthusiast or collector. They offer a unique blend of classic design elements and modern innovations, all while celebrating Seiko's rich heritage. The attention to detail, from the bracelet adjustments to the color schemes, showcases Seiko's commitment to craftsmanship and style. As an expert in the field, I can confidently say that these watches will be highly sought-after, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their historical significance within the brand's timeline.
