Seiko's 145th Anniversary: Introducing the Prospex Diver HBC005 and Samurai HBB001

Celebrating a Legacy: Seiko's Dive Watch Innovations

Seiko's Enduring Legacy and Anniversary Creations

For 145 years, Seiko has consistently celebrated its milestones with special edition timepieces. What began in 1881 as K. Hattori's shop in Tokyo's Ginza district has since blossomed into a global horological powerhouse. Kintaro Hattori's vision led to Japan's first wristwatch, the Laurel, in 1913. While the newest anniversary models don't directly mirror the Laurel's style, they embody Seiko's iconic blue, a hue first introduced in the 1960s. This tradition continues with the introduction of the Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 and the Prospex Samurai HBB001, both featuring striking blue elements.

The Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005: A Nod to the Past with Modern Refinements

The Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 is a reinterpretation of Seiko's original 62MAS diver's watch. This limited edition builds upon the 2024 updates, boasting a sleeker 40mm case and a 13mm thickness, alongside a 46.4mm lug-to-lug measurement. Its water resistance of 300m and refined construction enhance its appeal. The HBC005, identified by Seiko's new reference numbering system, features a super-hard coated steel case and bracelet, complemented by a blue aluminum bezel insert. The dial, finished in a subtle silvery-white brush, features luminous hour markers and a blue seconds hand, harmonizing with the bezel's color. Powering this timepiece is the modern 6R55 caliber, offering a generous 72-hour power reserve. The watch is completed with an upgraded 3-link steel bracelet, including a micro-adjustment clasp with a 15mm range, allowing for precise adjustments in 2.5mm increments. This model is limited to 4,000 pieces and is priced at EUR 1,500, set for global release in June 2026.

The Prospex Samurai HBB001: A Contemporary Classic

Joining the anniversary collection is the Prospex Samurai HBB001, an iteration of the well-known Samurai series. This version also features a more streamlined case, measuring 41.7mm in diameter, 12.3mm in thickness, and a 49.5mm lug-to-lug distance, enhancing its wearability compared to previous generations. Despite its more compact form, it retains the Samurai's signature angular and sharp aesthetic. With 200m water resistance, it's a robust diver's watch, distinguished by a new two-tone aluminum bezel insert. The bezel combines a silver-toned 0-to-15-minute scale with a deep Seiko Blue for the remainder. The dial presents a silver brushed finish, slightly darker than the Heritage Diver, with sharp, embossed hour markers and a blue seconds hand that echoes the bezel's design. The watch is equipped with the reliable 4R35 automatic caliber, operating at 3Hz and providing a 40-hour power reserve. The Prospex Samurai HBB001 is secured with a 3-link steel bracelet and a classic folding clasp. Limited to 9,999 units, this model will be available from June 2026 at EUR 650.