Seiko has done it again

Their latest Prospex Diver’s watches bring history, modern design, and underwater adventure into perfect harmony. And if you’re a fan of green – and who isn’t when it’s this striking? – you’ll want to dive right into these new models.

Seiko Prospex SPB501J1 – 1965 Heritage PADI Edition

As expected from Seiko’s PADI collaborations, the SPB501J1 doesn’t just wear the PADI name – it earns it. The watch boasts an emerald-green gradient dial with a mesmerising aquatic texture that darkens toward the lower half, mimicking the deepening shades you see when diving. This is paired beautifully with a rich green aluminium bezel insert – a bold and modern twist on their vintage 1965 diver’s aesthetic.

With a stainless steel 40mm case (46.4mm lug-to-lug, and 13mm thick), this piece is ready for serious underwater adventures, offering a proper 300m water resistance rating. The laser-engraved bezel markings won’t fade on you, and the dial layout is classic Prospex: large applied markers, bold hands, white LumiBrite for low-light clarity, and a discreet date window neatly wedged between 4 and 5 o’clock.

Under the caseback hums Seiko’s in-house 6R55 automatic movement, beating at 21,600vph with a generous 72-hour power reserve – so it’ll happily run the whole weekend if you leave it off your wrist. Seiko quotes a daily deviation of +25/-15 seconds, but in truth, many owners report tighter performance.

And the bracelet? Excellent. Seiko’s signature hard coating helps fend off scratches, and the slimmer clasp (with micro-adjustment and wetsuit extension) is a joy to use. There’s even a sturdy green Seichu-weave strap made from upcycled fishing nets included. It’s good-looking and good for the planet.

The Twin Spirit: Seiko Prospex SRPL53K1 – The Mechanical PADI Samurai

Now here’s the fun bit: if you loved the green-on-green look of the SPB501J1, you’ll be pleased to know the SRPL53K1 Samurai PADI wears almost exactly the same emerald vibe – green bezel, green gradient dial, and ocean-wave pattern. Yes, the colour theme is identical.

But the watch itself? Totally different character. The SRPL53K1 comes from Seiko’s modern “Samurai” line – all sharp angles, bold cuts, and contemporary flair. Where the 1965 Heritage model whispers of vintage divers past, the Samurai shouts today’s tool watch toughness. The case design, bezel font, and even the dial layout stand apart – but that irresistible green stays perfectly the same.

Inside beats a reliable mechanical movement, backed by ISO-compliant 200m water resistance and ready for real dive duty. It also features Seiko’s latest bracelet improvements, plus a compact design that feels just right at 41.7mm across – smaller than older Samurais, but all the better for daily wear.

A Sibling in Blue: Seiko Prospex SRPL51K1

Not a fan of green? There’s also the SRPL51K1 – the same watch as the SRPL53K1 Samurai, but dressed in a vivid underwater blue. The logo placement on the dial shifts ever so slightly, but otherwise, the specs, case, movement, and bracelet remain identical.

Same Shade, Different Souls

It’s worth noting – and many will miss this – that the SPB501J1 and the SRPL53K1 may be very different watches in design, but they share the exact same green dial and bezel colour. So if you love that colour, you can pick the retro-styled 1965 Heritage or the modern Samurai depending on your taste. Either way, you get the same ocean-deep green vibe.

Seiko has managed something rare here: offering true choice without forcing a colour compromise. And that, dear divers and collectors, is what makes this new Prospex release genuinely special.

Brows Our Seiko Prospex Watches.