The Basics
44mm Diameter 6R15 Automaic Movement
20 Lug Width 50 Hours Power Resrve
Sapphire Crystal Magnetic Protection up to 4800 A/m
Steel Case with 200m water resistance MSRP $1,050
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The SBP 077 is the Seikos reissue on the vintage diver reference 6159 from 1968. Having owned this for about half a year, I can say as my first dive watch that this has been a fantastic watch. This is the black dial and bezel (SPB077), there is a blue bezel version named the (SPB079) as well. The first question I had when I saw this watch was how big would it wear. At 44mm it is the largest watch I own and one of the thickest as well. On the wrist (check last photo) it wears surprisingly well for my medium size wrists, the lugs taper and are directed down at an angle that drops off quick. This helps sit the watch that is more easy to wear and does not have as large of a presence as the size would suggest.
Seiko has not been know for its bracelets, but the bracelet is very good. It is comfortable, the finishing in between the links adds some contrasting metal finishing that is pleasing to the eye but does not add “bling and flash” to the bracelet. The clasp is a double locking with the folder over and friction locked metal snap, all is standard in this aspect and is stamped with the Seiko name. One thing to note is that the bracelet feels more substantial than the other offerings they have, making this feel more premium.
One of the biggest points of conversation about the SPB077 is the hour hand. To some, it looks like the pointer on Windows OS, which I agree with. But in the age of computers and advancing technological frontiers, it has been a staple design in the virtual world and I believe translates well to the dial. Offering a significant change in design from the second and minute market that makes it quick to find and recognize. The lollipop counter balance to the second hand is a nice add on and pairs well with the hour markers. The finishing on the hands are matte black and help make the parts not necessary to tell the time disappear into the dial. The date window is in the correct position at 3’ o clock with no change in date color for the 31st as you can see above.
The case back offers nothing of significance, with the standard case from the back of the tried and trued SXK007. Above is the view of the folding clasp and again, the Seiko name.
The movement is the work horse 6R15, it has been reliable and utilizes both the rotor winding and manual wind. The manual winding feels slightly weak and “plasticy” but it is not the main form to wind the movement this way. The accuracy has been about 6 seconds a day fast which is fine by my standards at this price point.
Overall, this watch is a joy to wear even though it is on the larger side. It fits my medium wrists well and the bracelet is actually more comfortable than my Speedmaster bracelet. The watch is a strong entry into the diver market where you are paying for a bit more luxuries and finishes than the SKX007. This is one of my most worn watches and I feel confident in its durability and I believe it has a refined look (for a diver), that I wear it to work and to the beach. It hits a lot of everyday wear-ability boxes for me, bright lume, comfortable to wear, 200m water resistance, automatic winding, and its simply great to look at. I think it is great step up from the SKX if you want to stay in a similar branch of the Seiko line.
