The 13 Hottest Releases of Seiko for 2018 (with 2019 predictions)
December 18, 2018
As 2018 closes in, Seiko has definitely had a big year with a lot of popular and collectible watch releases.
Certainly, the Japanese Watch Maker giant has capitalized on what they do best and doubled down their efforts on the sure-fire best sellers.
Since most watch enthusiasts know that Seiko became popular because of their ability to create fantastic dive or sport watches, it wouldn’t be a surprise that the list will be full of dive/sport watches.
Keep in mind that this list only focuses on mechanical or automatic watches. I’m pretty sure Seiko has released some top sellers in their quartz-powered watches catalog, but Watch Daddy is focusing its love on affordable mechanical timepieces.
Without further ado, here is Watch Daddy’s list of Seiko’s 13 hottest releases for 2018:
1. Seiko Black Series SRPC49K1 "Ninja Turtle"
The Black Series “Ninja Turtle” (SRPC49K1) was released early 2018 and surprised the watch community with its bold use of creamy faux patina in the dial. See our complete review for the Seiko “Black Series” SRPC49K1 for the complete lowdown.
Why this watch is hot?
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The all-black theme is always a big seller for men’s apparel; even for watches
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Vintage is hot now. The Creamy Faux Patina captures that vintage look with the advantages of a modern piece and movement
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Limited Edition (Numbered for the JDM-only SBDY005 at 300 pieces)
Predictions for 2019
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Prices for the Seiko Black Series “Ninja Turtle” will maintain at worst and continue to rise even more as the supply and demand ratio goes in favor for even higher demand.
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Seiko will continue to release more PVD look on their watches as the all-black exterior has been proven to be a top seller. We’ve already seen this with the latest release of the Black PVD-style Turtle (SRPD11) and Samurai (SRPD09).
Source: Here
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2. Seiko SLA021J1 "Marine Master 300"
Source: Here
The Seiko Marine Master series is undoubtably considered the grail for most affordable diver watch lovers. The Seiko SLA021J1 is the latest release of the Marine Master series but this time; without the “Marine Master” branding on the dial.
On paper, the Seiko SLA021J1 is identical with the Seiko Marine Master 300 (SBDX017). Same specifications and movement (Caliber 8L35). But this time around, the SLA021J1 sport the Prospex logo instead of the coveted “Marine Master” that its ancestors had. On why Seiko did this; your guess will be as good as mine.
Another change to the package is that the new Seiko SLA021J1, which sports the same stainless-steel bracelet as the previous SBDX017, but now comes with a black silicone rubber strap instead of the iconic Marine Master 300 rubber waffle strap. I felt that this was more of a letdown than an improvement as the Marine Master 300 waffle strap aesthetically looks better.
Why this watch is hot?
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Anything tagged or identified with the Marine Master branding (but now ironically the lack of it) would be always a hot seller. The SLA021J1 is still an “MM300” in paper and spirit.
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The Caliber 8L35 is close to perfection at its price range
Predictions for 2019
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As the Seiko community warms up with the SLA021J1 and its revised identifiable marks, it will steadily pick up fans and sales.
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I see dealers offer some discounts or promotions to pick up popularity and sales.
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3. Seiko "MM200" SPB079J1
Source: Here
Speaking of the Marine Master 300, Seiko created and manufactured a re-issue into a much affordable package and line and created the SPB079J1 (dark blue bezel) and the SPB077J1 (black bezel and stainless-steel bracelet) “MM200”. I think the SPB079J1 is hotter.
The Seiko SPB079J1 uses a deep dark blue bezel which I think its biggest selling point. It simply generates different hues of blue from angles. As the affordable re-issue and version of the MM300, the SPB079J1 uses a similar case and lug design. Even the crown position is at the 4 o’clock marker for ease of use.
The inclusive black silicon Seiko strap is fully functional and comfortable. But you can easily swap in an aftermarket waffle strap for a better MM300 heritage look.
Why this watch is hot?
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An affordable “Marine Master” with clear heritage and style influences, people will look at this watch and probably consider after their first wrist shot.
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The deep dark blue bezel is really striking at any angle
Predictions for 2019
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I see Seiko probably releasing more special edition variants using the new “MM200” case and specifications. This has been Seiko’s formula for success for the last couple of years.
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Prices will likely stay the same for 2019 until we see a huge spike in demand. Highly unlikely though for regular (non-limited edition) pieces until they become discontinued.
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4. Seiko "Dawn Grey" Turtle SRPD01K1
Source: Here
The European Special and Limited (numbered) release of the “Dawn Grey” Turtle SRPD01K1 has sparked a huge interest for Seiko in both Europe and the US. This is part of Seiko’s marketing strategy to better penetrate the European market with their affordable mechanical timepieces and it worked.
When you release a special edition watch, you need to use a base model that is already both popular and timeless as this is the formula for a winning piece. Seiko did exactly that for the “Dawn Grey” Turtle as they released it in fantastic combination of greys and orange.
It already comes with a grey silicon rubber strap which I prefer as it really brings out the grey and orange hues of the watch dial. The “Dawn Grey” Turtle, which is limited to 2018 pieces worldwide, is still available with some select few retailers but who knows for how long.
Why this watch is hot?
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The grey and orange color combination on the watch face is a top seller nowadays. The same color combination can also be seen in Omega’s Planet Ocean (215.90.44.21.99.001).
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Limited and Numbered Seiko releases is always a big seller for both collectors and users.
Predictions for 2019
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The “Dawn Grey” SRPD01K1 Turtle will continue to find its market price increasing as the demand will always be bigger than its limited supply.
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Seiko will eventually release more European (or Global) limited edition models because it brings hype and attention to Seiko on the World stage.
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5. Seiko "Dawn Grey" Samurai SRPD03K1
Source: Here
Seiko released two models of the “Dawn Grey” series with their modern best seller divers. The first was the Turtle and the other one is another crowd favorite in the form of the Samurai.
Like the “Dawn Grey” Turtle, the Samurai version also has the same identical grey and orange watch theme which I find really attractive and striking. The “Dawn Grey” SRPD03K1 Samurai is also limited and numbered to 2018 pieces worldwide and is equally hard to find.
Preference on which model to buy would depend on your watch style and liking. The Seiko Turtle would seem to sit lower and flush on the wrist and presents a vintage case design while the Seiko Samurai would tend to sit higher on the wrist and command a bigger wrist presence.
The “Dawn Grey” Samurai comes only with the standard Samurai style bracelet and it would have been better if Seiko threw in an extra set of rubber/silicon straps like what they did for the “Dawn Grey” Turtle.
Why this watch is hot?
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The “Dawn Grey” Samurai presents itself with the same attractive grey and orange color combination as the “Dawn Grey” Turtle. That colorway is really hot now.
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Limited and Numbered Seiko releases is always a big seller for both collectors and users.
Predictions for 2019
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The “Dawn Grey” SRPD03K1 Samurai will continue to find its market price increasing as the demand will always be bigger than its limited supply.
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Seiko will eventually release more European (or Global) limited edition models because it brings hype and attention to Seiko on the World stage.
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6. Seiko "Baby GS Snowflake" SARX055
Source: Here
When the casual Seiko lover is asked about his grail Grand Seiko piece, most of them would lean on answering the Grand Seiko Snowflake (SBGA011).
But to most, it remains a grail because of its price. Not to take anything away from the GS Snowflake SBGA011, there are similar looking pieces that cost much lesser. An example of this is what Seikoholics call the “Baby GS Snowflake” in the form of the Seiko SARX055.
The Seiko SARX055 also comes with the desirable “snowflake” white dial which kind of resembles the look and texture of a snowflake. Its case is made from titanium and shows the real craftsmanship and polishing technique of Seiko. The bracelet, which is also made from titanium, is made with perfection in mind.
I urge you to take a look at the “Baby GS Snowflake” SARX055 for you to really appreciate its build and quality.
Why this watch is hot?
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Its an affordable GS Snowflake in a much affordable but not cheapened package
Predictions for 2019
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The “Baby GS Snowflake” SARX055 will further be appreciated by collectors as more press and reviews about it go around.
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Seiko’s latest strategy is to release affordable versions of their iconic top sellers lately (ex. MM200 and Baby GS Snowflake) and that trend should not stop in 2019.
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7. Seiko Jade Green Monster SZSC005
Source: Here
One of the iconic affordable diver’s watch line Seiko has is the “Monster” series. When the first-generation Seiko Orange Monster was released, the world well in love. In fact, the Seiko Monster produced one of the most number of iterations and models compared to the other Seiko models.
Come 2018, Seiko decided to once again release a new model for the Seiko Monster by giving it a jade green dial and waiting for the buyers to come. Even though the new iteration of the Monster is a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) model release only, it garnered huge demand from all over the world.
Powered by the modern caliber 6R15, the new Seiko Jade Green Monster SZSC005 is now both improved mechanically and aesthetically. In fact, I personally want to own one and would love to fully review the piece in the metal.
Why this watch is hot?
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Anything badged with the “Monster” line will be a huge seller
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The Seiko SZSC005 Monster’s Jade Green dial is considered a lucky color by some and would be a nice piece to wear daily to bring luck
Predictions for 2019
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Since the SZSC005 is a JDM release piece only, its price will eventually increase as the demand for it rises.
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After Seiko had success in releasing Thailand Limited Edition pieces of the Monster, I see Seiko milking that same trend again with newer (limited and even numbered) models for 2019.
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8. Seiko "Hulk" Green Sumo SZSC004
Source: Here
I must admit, I really wanted to own a Rolex Submariner Hulk after wearing one in person. The finish, reliability, and green color dial/bezel is something to wish for. The all-green watch face seems to look good on any casual outfit.
I guess Seiko took some cues and notes then decided to release a similar watch with the same all-green colorway in the form of the Seiko “Hulk” Green Sumo SZSC004.
I liked that fact that Seiko used the Sumo as the base model because the Sumo commands a big wrist presence due to its overall size and heft. A perfect watch base to be coined the Seiko “Hulk” for. It uses the reliable 6R15 movement and does not disappoint at its current price point.
Another JDM release piece, the Seiko SZSC004 is attracting buyers globally because of its collectability and desirability.
Why this watch is hot?
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For lovers of the Rolex Submariner Hulk’s all-green colorway, they can have a similar inspired piece through the Seiko “Hulk” Sumo SZSC004 and still have the Seiko reliability and affordability.
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Seiko Sumo’s have always been hot in the global Seiko market because they are known to be mostly JDM releases and the coveted “Made in Japan” on the watch it hot.
Predictions for 2019
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As a JDM release piece only, the SZSC004 will see its price increase through 2019 as more demand from overseas buyers come in. Japanese dealers will capitalize on this and demand a premium to sell you one.
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9. Seiko "Great Blue Hole" SPB083J1
The Seiko SPB083J1 “Great Blue Hole” should not be a surprised on why I included this on the list after thoroughly reviewing it in a previous article. The watch just offers something new for its potential owners and it did surprise me in the metal.
To highlight my experience with the Seiko SPB083J1, the two biggest selling point of this watch is its side-ward gradient fill blue dial and the clear MM300 heritage.
After the release of the both the Seiko SPB077 and SPB079 “MM200” models, Seiko immediately followed it up with a revised model sporting the unique side-ward gradient blue fill which I found appealing and unique.
Playing around a bit, you can even change the hands into MM300 ones, so you can come close to the full MM300 look. You can check how the watch came out from the picture above.
Why this watch is hot?
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The beautiful and appealing blue gradient fill dial is a thing to admire on a watch. Plus, we add the heritage and pedigree of the Marine Master 300 into the mix, a real winner
Predictions for 2019
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Since this is a Special Edition piece, expect its prices to rise in 2019 as collectors would simply snag it up waiting for a profit.
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I predict to see more “MM200” special edition (even limited and numbered) in 2019 as this would ensure big sales for Seiko.
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10. Seiko "Coral Reef" Blue Sumo SBDC069
Source: Here
The Seiko “Coral Reef” Blue Sumo SBDC069 is designed with the same principles of the Seiko “Hulk” Sumo with a solid single colorway for the whole watch head. In this case, the “Coral Reef” SBDC069 sports an all blue dial and bezel with a hint of yellow used for the seconds hand.
The “Coral Reef” Blue Sumo is another JDM release piece (true for most Sumo’s) and has captured the eyes of a lot of buyers to date looking for a blue timepiece stand out. Safe to say, blue hues have always done well for diver’s watches in the past decades and Seiko knows about this.
If you are in the market for a Seiko Sumo and love blue, then you should seriously take a look at the Seiko “Coral Reef” Sumo SBDC069 as it presents a straight-forward and reliable watch with a whole lot of blue in it.
Why this watch is hot?
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The all-blue colorway put in the Seiko Sumo pedigree will guarantee buyers all over.
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The “Made in Japan” stamped on the watch is an instant way to make it to the “hot” list of anyone into Seiko’s.
Predictions for 2019
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The Seiko “Coral Reef” SBDC069 will continue its huge demand through 2019.
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Prices will still remain the same and most likely stabilize until a new Sumo that is “limited/numbered” edition
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11. Seiko "62MAS" PADI SBDC055
When the Seiko “62MAS” PADI SBDC055 first came out this year, I was in love. You can see my full reviews and thoughts about the Seiko “62MAS” PADI SBDC055 as I owned and wore it almost daily in the last couple of months.
Inspired by Seiko’s first-ever diver (the 62MAS 6217-8000), the heritage and design are unmistakable with the PADI SBDC055. What really captured and sold me though was its unique and striking gradient wave dial that you just don’t see at its price range.
The Seiko “62MAS” PADI was released globally and is still currently available for you to purchase. Take a look into this watch if you are in the market for a colorful sport diver that could be paired with just any kind of strap.
Why this watch is hot?
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Banking on the release of SLA017 last year during Baselworld, the “62MAS” re-editions are hot especially special editions like the PADI.
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The unique wave textured, and gradient blue dial is something to admire and look at
Predictions for 2019
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I still see the Seiko SBDC055 “62MAS” PADI as a strong seller for Seiko for 2019. The watch really hits a lot of sweet spots for any affordable mechanical watch enthusiast.
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There might be a strong demand and eventually a price increase on the JDM model (SBDC055) compared to the other global releases because the SBDC055 is stamped with “Made in Japan” which again is desirable for collectors.
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12. Seiko "Mashu Lake" SRPD08K
Source: Here
The Seiko “Urchin” is a successful entry-level diver’s watch which does the job at an affordable price tag. Because of this, the “Urchin” has a strong following and proven track record for both users and average collectors. Given this, how can Seiko instantly hype a long-standing watch model? Simple, release a limited and numbered special edition of it.
This is what has Seiko done to the “Urchin” base model watch and given it nice hues of blue, white and a tinge of red plus a stamp of “Limited Edition” on the dial. The Japanese watchmaker then limits it to 1963 pieces globally and releases it only to the Thailand market (to make it more limited worldwide).
The outcome is the Seiko SRPD08K “Mashu Lake” Urchin and it is indeed beautiful.
If you want a piece that is both unique and attainable, I urge you to consider owning the Seiko SRPD08K “Mashu Lake” Urchin for a change. I bet you will not regret your decision for the years to come.
Why this watch is hot?
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Anything limited/numbered and released for the Thai Market only is hot when it comes to Seiko.
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The beautiful combination of blue, white and a tinge of red highlights the watch as the perfect casual partner for affordable mechanical watch fans.
Predictions for 2019
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Knowing the background and nature of the SRPD08K (limited and numbered Thai-only release), this watch’s price will continue to rise in both the first- and second-hand market.
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As usual, Seiko loves releasing very limited-edition watches (that not everyone has a chance to buy) in order to boost hype to the brand and make the Seikoholics globally go bonkers.
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13. Seiko "Shippo Enamel" Presage SPB073
Source: Here
As for those the few who don’t know, Seiko does not only manufacture divers’ watches but also make beautiful and affordable dress watches that we can all love and enjoy. Seiko achieves this through their Presage lineup and one real hot release this 2018 is the Seiko “Shippo Enamel” Presage SPB073.
The real highlight of this watch lies on its beautiful blue dial and how it was crafted by Seiko. Basing from the name, “Shippo Enamel”, the watch dial is made from Shippo Enamel which references Japanese art of enameling called “Shippo”.
The Seiko Presage “Shippo Enamel” SPB073 dress watch also comes with a calendar sub-dial and a power reserve meter which provide just the right amount of watch complications without being too busy on the watch dial. To top it all off, Seiko limited and numbered its release to just 2500 pieces globally.
If I was to buy a dress watch soon, this would be on top of my list because it exemplifies the true Japanese watchmaking skill and encapsulates their parallel skill in enameling.
Why this watch is hot?
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The Seiko “Shippo Enamel” SPB073 is an art piece on its own with real reference and usage of “Shippo” enameling.
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Just the right amount of watch complications and at the same time, being limited and numbered to 2500 pieces globally.
Predictions for 2019
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The “Shippo Enamel” SPB073 still does not get its proper hype as we close 2018 but I see it coming up the popularity ranks in 2019 as more and more people find out about its heritage and homage.
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Pricing will still be at retail up until all stocks are sold or the watch successfully rides the Seiko hype train.
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