Introduction
The legacy of the 62MAS, Seiko’s pioneering dive watch, has endured through generations of watch enthusiasts. It’s no surprise that this iconic design continues to capture hearts, leading Seiko to reimagine it in a contemporary light. Let’s delve into Seiko’s latest release, updating the revered 62MAS design with modern features and enhancements.
Evolution of the 62MAS Design
Seiko has embraced the essence of the 62MAS design over the years, offering various executions spanning a wide price range. In 2020, Seiko unveiled a lineup of 62MAS modern reinterpretation watches. Fast forward to 2024, and the Japanese manufacturer introduces a new generation, boasting compact cases, enhanced depth ratings, and upgraded movements with extended power reserves.
Introducing the Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver’s Watch Series
The latest iteration of Seiko’s Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver’s Watch series features three references, including a special edition commemorating Seiko’s 100th anniversary. The SPB453 and SPB451 offer classic black and blue dials respectively, each accompanied by a stainless steel bracelet. The SPB455 introduces a charcoal gray colorway with gold accents, bundled with both a bracelet and a unique Seichu braided NATO-style strap crafted from recycled plastic bottles.
Enhanced Performance and Design
The previous generation of 62MAS reinterpretation watches boasted 200 meters of water resistance and 70-hour power reserves. However, Seiko aimed higher with the latest series, elevating the depth ratings to 300 meters and power reserves to a full three days. Achieving these improvements necessitated ingenious engineering solutions, including adjustments to caseback angles to maintain strength and reduce overall case profile.
Refined Dimensions and Construction
Measuring 40mm in diameter by 13mm thick with a lug-to-lug profile of 46.4mm, the new models are slightly smaller in every dimension compared to their predecessors. Crafted from stainless steel with a “super hard” coating for scratch resistance, these watches feature curved sapphire crystals, solid screw-down casebacks, and engraved aluminum bezel inserts matching the dial colors.
Dial Layout and Movement
Notable updates to the dial layout include relocating the date window to 4:30 for improved legibility, accompanied by Lumibrite-coated hands and hour markers. Powering the watches is Seiko’s Caliber 6R55 automatic movement, offering a 72-hour power reserve and robust performance.
Subtle Bracelet Enhancements
The bracelets accompanying the new models feature reduced clasp size and shortened links for enhanced comfort. While initial impressions of end-link fit may raise concerns, the woven NATO-style strap included with the special edition adds a unique touch.
Price and Conclusion
Despite a slight increase in price compared to the previous generation, the new Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver’s Watches offer reasonable value at $1,300 USD for standard models and $1,400 USD for the special edition. With its refined design and enhanced features, this latest generation pays homage to the 62MAS legacy while setting new standards for contemporary dive watches.
In conclusion, Seiko’s dedication to refining and reimagining its iconic designs ensures that the legacy of the 62MAS lives on, promising exciting possibilities for future iterations and limited editions.