A Guide to the Best Seiko 5 Watches for Every Style

Every collector — old and new — surely crossed paths with the famed Seiko 5 line of watches. This family of timepieces undoubtedly represents what wallet-friendly watches actually mean. For this reason, most collectors suggest at least a few watches from this collection to frugal collectors. Now, you may think that an inexpensive watch means quality sacrificed. We hate to disappoint you; the Seiko 5 does exactly the opposite. These timepieces strictly follow 5 quality measures to truly belong to its line of excellent reasonably-priced watches; therefore, its name.

50 Years of Seiko 5

For more than 50 years, the Seiko 5 collection remains a top choice among collectors and enthusiasts alike. With Seiko’s innovative and ambitious beginnings for the line, the collection proves successful to this day. Given this, Seiko continues to put new timepieces from the line to this day, much to our delight. Tracing its roots in 1963, the collection started with one timepiece that changed the watchmaking industry all over the world.

Seiko Sportmatic 5

Born in 1963, the first watch from this collection launched as the Seiko’s and Japan’s first-ever automatic day-date watch. This aptly-named timepiece, the Seiko Sportmatic 5, possessed various innovations that undoubtedly rattled the industry. These innovations ultimately developed into criteria that displayed the quality of watches that Seiko creates under the line.

Nicknamed “the Five”, instantly turned into a best-seller. Its novel design, as well as practical functions, proved popular among the masses. In fact, exports of the watch increased after Seiko successfully developed innovative clocking devices for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Moreover, the exports of the Seiko 5 in 1966 greatly exceeded the totality of self-winding watches from all of Switzerland. The Seiko 5’s launch, by and large, propagated self-winding watches almost everywhere. Not to mention, it set the ideal practicality and functionality of cost-efficient watches since.

The Innovative Changes

The Seiko 5’s launch gave birth to various innovations by Seiko itself. Firstly, Seiko responded to the common problem that watches face resulting from falling or insufficient winding. When a watch falls, its balance pivot breaks. On the other hand, when insufficiently wound, the watch cuts or loses power on the mainsprings. To efficiently provide solutions to these, Seiko developed the “Diashock” mechanism as well as the “Diaflex” mainspring.

The Diashock system, given its name, provides efficient shock resistance. This also responds directly to the Swiss Incabloc system. On the other hand, the Diaflex mainspring uses a special tough alloy material for efficient energy usage.

With active people in mind during the creation of the Seiko 5 collection, a key factor relies on the water resistance. Firstly, a stainless steel case unlocks the key to rustless anatomy. Seiko also made sure that the Seiko 5 remained compact for comfort and efficiency.

The Five Standards

Seiko developed these changes to provide quality timepieces without breaking the bank. Ultimately, Seiko released the five standards that best described the Seiko 5 watch.

1. The Diashock mechanism
2. The Diaflex mainspring
3. Automatic winding
4. Day/date display window
5. Water resistance

However, these have since changed into a more general rule of thumb to follow. At the 50th anniversary of the collection, they released new standards.

1. Automatic winding
2. Day/date display window at 3 o’clock
3. Water resistance
4. Recessed crown at 4 o’clock
5. Case and bracelet built for durability

Noticeably, the Diashock and Diaflex criteria get omitted from the list. With these systems available on other Seiko collections and timepieces, the company made adjustments to make watches from Seiko 5 truly stand out. While others prefer the movement more than crown positions and durability, it’s worth considering that these systems aren’t unique to the collection. Either way, all Seiko 5 watches must meet these criteria to belong under the collection. Enthusiasts refer to the Seiko 5 with various names with the watches’ movements having 17 to 25 jewels.

Modern-Day Seiko 5 Watches

Today, Seiko presents 5 subcategories under the Seiko 5 family. Firstly, Sports Style watches that possesses the greatest traits of an affordable sports watch. Secondly, Suits Style proves perfect as dress watches; thus, its name. Not straying too far from this, the Specialist Style demonstrates a classic look and feel. Street Style watches, in contrast, make for great everyday timepieces. The devil is in the detail as the Sense Style displays unique and creative design.

Generally speaking, these collections still possess a great selection of watches. So, while we’re here, let’s dive into the 15 best watches from each collection and find out what makes them stand out from the others.

1. Sports Style

Seiko 5 SRPD63K1

Seiko’s SRPD line of timepieces surely mimics the diver watch standards. It’s not bad for a sports watch, given that it possesses the Seiko 5 standards. Released alongside 26 other SKUs in early 2020, the SRPD63K1 stands out for one particular reason: the colour. Surely, you’ve seen a green watch. Most popularly, the Seiko Sumo’s most prominent model remains to be the green dial iteration. But — hear me out — this watch proves reliable and stylish especially if you’re into the classic nautical look.

At a quick glance, you get the basics of an SRPD Seiko watch. The unmistakeable 42.5㎜ case diameter, unidirectional rotating bezel, and of course, the Seiko 5 requirements all present themselves well. This automatic timepiece includes Seiko’s Lumibrite on the hands and indexes for optimum readability. It also features the Seiko Calibre 4R36 with 24 jewels and more than 41 hours of power reserve. The timepiece also functions with 21,600 beats per hour. With an accuracy of +45 / -35 seconds per day, it remains efficient for its price range.

Seiko 5 SRPE63K1

The SRPE’s make-up doesn’t differ much from the SRPD series. It’s just like the latter, sans the unidirectional rotating bezel. The SRPE63K1 features a blue dial and a nylon strap perfect for a quick dip in the pool. It sits comfortably around the wrist with an overall diameter of 40 ㎜ and a thickness of 11.5㎜. With a depth rating of 10 bar or 100 meters, the watch allows for a quick dip in the pool. Take it for a recreational swim and worry not about any damage whatsoever.

Just as the other watches in this list, the Seiko Calibre 4R36 powers this timepiece. Same 24 jewels and more than 41 hours of power reserve. This timepiece perfectly captures a stylish timepiece that’s ready for any sudden changes in the environment. However, its Hardlex crystal could be improved. But at its price range, this watch undeniably meets the Seiko 5 standards and more.

Seiko 5 SRPD51K1

Another one from the SRPD line of Sports Style watches from the Seiko 5 family, the SRPD51K1 embraces a classic diver-style look. Just like the previously mentioned SRPD timepiece, this watch includes a unidirectional rotating bezel to measure short time intervals. However, this comes in a classic blue dial and bezel look. For anyone who’s not in it for a green dial, this perfectly suits you. It doesn’t so much as to bore with a monochromatic look but gives a sophisticated look with the sunburst blue dial.

This watch measures 42.5mm in case diameter with a thickness of 13.4mm. With its stainless steel bracelet, you get a three-fold clasp with a secure lock and a push-button release. This wraps comfortably around the wrist. Its colour perfectly suits a stylish choice for a day-to-day choice as well but a weekend getaway shouldn’t hurt!

2. Suits Style

Seiko 5 SRPD69K1

The red colour of the dial and bezel definitely gives the SRPD69K1 a personality. Not to mention, its cream gold-outlined markers and hands definitely emphasize the design choices for the SRPD line. A personal favourite among the Sports 5 watches, this timepiece puts style forward with its design. As a timepiece under the Suits Style collection, this watch can definitely up your game at any black-tie event. It catches attention and can definitely work as an interesting conversational piece.

But that’s not to discredit the amazing features of the watch. Like the aforementioned SRPD watches with the Calibre 4R36 as well as a 10 bar depth rating, this watch also features a Hardlex crystal. One of its key features often overlooked, its mesh bracelet rounds the wrist perfectly and at utmost comfort. It’s light and doesn’t get in the way of any hand-shaking in a business meeting. Not to mention, it easily transitions for an after-party accompaniment.

Seiko 5 SRPD65K2

If you’re into the more monochromatic design, the Seiko 5 Suits Style SRPD65K2 is the choice for you. While it features a sportier exterior, its design wouldn’t let you down on special occasions. If you’re rushing to a 9 to 5 after a weekend getaway, this watch could be your best friend. The black dial and bezel prove classic no matter the model. Not to mention, its silicone strap proves the watch’s durability and compatibility for outdoor adventures.

Just as fascinating with the Calibre 4R36, this timepiece doesn’t vary much when it comes to the inner workings. Its appeal works more on the exterior.

Seiko 5 SRPE77K1

What’s great about the Seiko 5 Suits Style SRPE77K1 greets you at first sight. Yes, if you don’t notice it by now, it has a beautiful light blue dial that compliments the blue bezel perfectly. Noticeably, its bezel also differs from the SRPD watches with the dots in between the markers. It looks wonderful with the Lumibrite allowing for optimum readability even in dimly lit places. Not to mention, it comes with a mesh bracelet that would also make it a comfortable choice of band.

3. Specialist Style

Seiko 5 SRPD55K2

If you need a watch that stands out with subtle changes in details, the Specialist Style watches does just that for you. For instance, the SRPD55K2 looks almost just like the other SRPD watches. However, noticeably so, its strap does make a huge change even with the slight alteration. Surely, you wouldn’t think that it’s not just like any other silicone straps. With what appears to be an alligator leather effect finish stitched to the silicons strap, the look of this timepiece already impresses by quite a lot. Given that it’s also in a deep brown colour, it also ups the watch’s dimensions and texture.

Seiko 5 SRPE79K1

Where to begin with the SRPE79K1? Unlike the other SRPE timepieces, this one looks the most different by far. But we don’t mean that in a bad way. In fact, this timepiece shows just how much affordable can look so sophisticated with simple detail changes. Just like the SRPD55K2, this timepiece comes with a silicone band but with a leather effect finish. This time, the leather effect comes in a simple black colour. Moreover, its bezel differs greatly with textured markers. Meanwhile, the dial remains monochromatic in silver with an alternated brush pattern effect.

Seiko 5 SRPD76K1

Fans of understated designs would love the SRPD76K1. It has the same band as the SRPE79K1. The silicone band but with a leather effect finish already adds personality to the watch. However, the striking gold-tone case makes for a compelling choice. It’s elegant without having to force its luxurious look. It also has a simple black dial and bezel so the design remains minimized. It’s definitely a smart choice for a watch.

4. Seiko 5 Street Style

Seiko 5 SRPE69K1

There’s something about a monochromatic watch that makes it an easy choice. Especially for a quick day-to-day look, a simple timepiece does wonders to an ensemble. The Street Style watches from the Seiko 5 family makes it easier to style your look with the perfect timepiece. Take the SRPE69K1, for instance. This watch doesn’t distract from the necessary information and sits casually around the wrist at only 40mm in diameter. The nylon strap also adds a bit of ruggedness to the watch so anyone who rolls the streets daily can rely on this watch.

Seiko 5 SRPD79K1

Another great example of a monochromatic Seiko 5 watch, the SRPD79K1 adds a unidirectional bezel to the first Street Style watch on our list. This bezel fits just perfectly within the watch and remains functional while keeping the watch stylish. At any time when you need a rugged timepiece with reliable accuracy, this should be your first choice.

Seiko 5 SRPE74K1

The SRPE74K1, while still monochromatic, adds a flashy gold tone to each and every material of it. The oyster-style bracelet comes in a golden tone just like the case. The bezel, on the other hand, features a texture that perfectly balances the finish of the watch. It might be the shiniest, most polished watch on our list but the detailed gothic markers on the bezel definitely give this watch a new dimension.  Moreover, the dial shiny gold dial doesn’t distract from the information given its white markers. If you need a watch that you can take from business meeting to a night out, this makes for a great companion.

5. Sense Style

Creativity takes the front seat with the Sense Style collection. Through various collaborations, the collection consists of limited edition pieces as well as solid regulars.

Seiko 5 STREET FIGHTER V Limited Edition

In collaboration with Street Fighter V, Seiko launches a collection of 6 limited edition watches. The designs of the watches revolve heavily around the characters. Like the world-famous Player VS Player fighting game, the collection radiates a powerful aura and energy to each model. If you’re a huge fan of the game, this is a definite must-have. If not, then it might be time to bust out a game console and dive into the world of Street Fighter.

Seiko 5 Brian May Limited Edition

Lead guitarist of legendary band Queen, Brian May collaborates with Seiko for one iconic watch. The watch’s design resembles that of a guitar in red and black colours. Its NATO strap makes for a comfortable wearing especially if you’re wearing it during a concert. This timepiece certainly has a musician in mind with a thoughtful ode to the guitar as May’s instrument.

Seiko 5 SRPD77K1

If you haven’t noticed it by now, we love the colour green here. With the SRPD77K1‘s dial’s texture, this simple watch almost instantly gains a personality. This timepiece also comes in brown colour (SRPD85K1) and looks just as interesting. But for us, this is the winner right here!

Final Thoughts

The Seiko 5 watch collection is a breakthrough in the industry. It’s affordable with a certain standard that not all watches in this price range possess. Its whole line of watches is already impressive at it is. That’s why it was hard for us to pick just 15 of them. Where the Seiko 5 stands out, the enthusiasts flock. There’s nothing like an automatic at this price range!

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