WATCH & JEWELRY /
WATCH NEWS
June 9, 2021
Introducing two new models, featuring the first-ever fabric straps for Seiko Divers. | SEIKO
SEIKO | Seiko
A Modern Interpretation of Two Milestone Seiko Divers Models
Two new dive watches have arrived from Prospex, featuring the first-ever fabric straps in the history of Seiko Divers. Woven using a traditional Japanese technique called 'Seichu,' the straps offer both high durability and aesthetic appeal, making them suitable for a wide range of scenes, from diving to daily wear. The '1965 Mechanical Divers Modern Design' is scheduled to go on sale from Friday, June 25, 2021, and the '1970 Mechanical Divers Modern Design' from Friday, July 9, 2021.
Text by OZAKI Sayaka | Edit by TSUCHIDA Takashi
Featuring Fabric Straps Combining High Durability and Aesthetic Appeal
In the 55-year history of Seiko Divers, two models are being released with fabric straps for the first time: the '1965 Mechanical Divers Modern Design' and the '1970 Mechanical Divers Modern Design.' Since its inception in 1965 as Japan's first dive watch, Seiko's dive watches have consistently introduced timepieces equipped with unique technologies, earning high praise and trust from professional divers and adventurers worldwide. In particular, the mechanical divers released in 1965 and 1970 are both milestone models in the history of Seiko Divers watches.
Left: The first Japanese-made dive watch released in 1965 (reference). Right: A dive watch released in 1970 (reference).
The first Japanese-made dive watch, unveiled in 1965, proved its reliability by withstanding the harsh Antarctic environment. It can be considered the origin of Seiko's special watch development, sharing common ground with adventure and pilot watches. The dive watch released in 1970, characterized by its unique, streamlined form, was carried by adventurer Naomi Uemura on his 12,000-kilometer dog sled journey across the Arctic from 1974 to 1976, demonstrating its high reliability in extreme conditions.
By combining cases that inherit the design of these two models while reinterpreting them for the modern era, with supple fabric straps, new dive watches have been born that also match contemporary lifestyles.
The fabric straps are woven using 'Seichu,' a traditional Japanese technique also used for obi fasteners on kimonos. The use of 'Seichu' has resulted in straps that meet Seiko's high performance standards.
This fabric material possesses excellent tensile strength, resisting breakage even under significant load, and high light resistance against UV degradation, ensuring exceptional durability for prolonged use in demanding environments. Unlike conventional woven cords, its tubular construction means there are no cut edges, providing a smooth feel against the skin. It is also supple and breathable, ensuring comfortable wear at all times. Furthermore, the diagonal weave of the threads creates a unique depth and texture, lending a rich expression to the watch, distinct from the casual impression typically associated with fabric.
The pre-assembled straps are black for the '1965 Mechanical Divers Modern Design' and khaki for the '1970 Mechanical Divers Modern Design.' However, interchangeable fabric straps in different colors are included, allowing for easy customization to match one's mood, attire, or situation, without the need for tools.
1965 Mechanical Divers Modern Design
- Ref. | SBDC141
- Movement | Automatic (Caliber 6R35)
- Power Reserve | Approx. 70 hours (when fully wound)
- Case Material | SS (DiaShield coating)
- Case Diameter | 40.5mm
- Strap Material | Black fabric (beige fabric strap included)
- Water Resistance | 200m
- Price | ¥137,500 (incl. tax)
1970 Mechanical Divers Modern Design
- Ref. | SBDC143
- Movement | Automatic (Caliber 6R35)
- Power Reserve | Approx. 70 hours (when fully wound)
- Case Material | SS (DiaShield coating)
- Case Diameter | 42.7mm
- Strap Material | Khaki fabric (gray fabric strap included)
- Water Resistance | 200m
- Price | ¥148,500 (incl. tax)
