Seiko is one of, if not the only brand with the ability for every new release to cause a stir in the enthusiast community. Whether it?s a new color of an existing watch or a whole new model, the reaction is immediate. Sure, not every watch they release is a universal hit, but each finds a niche, gets a nickname, or ends up getting some level of cult status. This is particularly true with their Prospex divers, which, since becoming available in the US, have been at the center of the Seiko hype train.
At Baselworld 2018, Seiko announced the SLA025, a high-priced, high-beat, limited edition re-interpretation of their iconic 6159 diver from 1968 for its 50th anniversary. Though not quite as well-known as other mid-century divers, the 6159 is very rare, goes for a mint, and has informed the design of many Seiko dive watches in the 50+ years since its debut. Namely, the MM300 Marinemaster, which sported a very similar case and dial.
Let’s get this out of the way – the SPB077 wears very well

As was Seiko?s MO for a few years, when they?d release a limited edition recreation, they also would release a more affordable, open edition with a modernized aesthetic. These watches are often the true cult favorites, as value has always been at the core of Seiko?s charm. So, in 2018 alongside the SLA025 came the SBP077 and 075 loosely dubbed the MM200s. Featuring very similarly styled cases, these were the first time the 6159-esque aesthetic was made more obtainable.
As a fa...