This article was originally published in the January/February 2022 Issue of the WatchTime print magazine.

Seiko celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2021 with a number of special models. In addition to a modern reinterpretation of the Prospex Diver?s watch from 1970 created for the adventurer Naomi Uemura, there was also an unlimited edition of the world-famous dive watch, which we put to our test.

In contrast to the limited edition, the unlimited version of this Seiko Prospex model, our test watch, has a roughened matte dial in charcoal gray, much like the original from 1970. By placing the date between 4 and 5 o?clock, 12 bold hour markers can be applied, with a double-bar marker at 12 o?clock, for perfect orientation.
The hour and minute hands, the tip of the second hand, and the indexes are all generously coated with Lumibrite, Seiko?s own luminous material, to ensure optimal nighttime legibility. The orientation point on the dive bezel seems to take a conscious backseat. The unidirectional bezel, which is rendered in the same gray color as the dial, clicks in half-minute increments and is engraved to the exact minute. It encircles a domed crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inside, which contributes to the excellent overall legibility and scratch resistance.

The hard coating on the alternating polished and brushed surfaces of the asymmetrical case, which is widely used on Seiko dive watches, protects against scratches. The recognizable crow...