Remembering the Legendary Seiko 1968 Reinterpretations - The SPB185 and SPB187

For the longest of times and most importantly in recent years, Seiko has shown that they are indeed that brand. I term myself to be an unapologetic Seiko Fanboy, and rightfully so. Be it in terms of global reach, variety, and quality, Seiko has consistently come up with stellar releases, and if there was any year in recent memory that cemented them as a brand that other brands emulate, it was 2020.

Seiko's modern take on its classic 1968 divers, the SPB185 and SPB187 honor the past with heritage-inspired designs.

While there were a number of anniversary releases that year, one release that showed the meticulous craftsmanship and precision that characterizes the Seiko brand was the Prospex SPB185 and SPB187. These timepieces, unveiled in November 2020, have rapidly risen to the top, becoming not just one of the most coveted models within the Prospex collection, but also as an excellent reinterpretation of the iconic 1968 model, the 6159 Marine Master (MM300). Despite their discontinuation, the demand for these watches remains high, making them a hot ticket item among watch collectors and enthusiasts alike.

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The Charm of the SPB185 and SPB187

To every watch comes a story and a particular type of magic. With these watches, you find their charm in their harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. The SPB185 and SPB187 are mid-tier reinterpretations of their 1968 predecessor, the iconic 6159 Marine Master (MM300), a timepiece with legendary status in the world of horology. They retain the robust lugs and dramatic lines that are integral to the 6159 DNA but come in slightly more wearable dimensions - 42mm in diameter with a 12.5mm thickness. This pitch-perfect dimension makes them a perfect fit for any wrist size, further increasing their appeal to a broader audience.

Strap on this Quick Release Grey Sailcloth Nylon Watch Band, and watch the Seiko Prospex SPB185 timepiece find a home on your wrist. The comfortable nylon material ensures wear all day.

Another standout feature of these watches is their dial design. The SPB185 sports comes in a brushed steel bezel with black numerals and a matte black dial, giving it a modern and techy look. On the other hand, the SPB187 pairs a gloss black bezel with a deep blue sunray dial and gives you that old-school classic feeling. Both watches come with bracelets, making them even more versatile and giving you all the style points needed.

Be it with the Seiko Prospex SPB185 or SPB187, this Quick Release Nylon Watch Band with Green Stitching redefines subtle elegance.

The Power of the Movement: A Legacy From 1968

While there is everything to wax lyrical about in their exterior, the SPB185 and SPB187 houses a machine of a caliber in the form of the 6R35 caliber. This movement shows just how committed Seiko is to quality and precision. With these watches, Seiko has ensured that these models do not compromise on performance. The 6R35 caliber offers an impressive power reserve of 70 hours, making these watches reliable companions for those who are always on the go.

Green and athletic is the best way to describe this Ocellus Green Quick Release FKM Rubber Sports Watch Strap, designed to complement the Seiko Prospex SPB185 dive watch, that is a worthy companion to your Seiko Prospex SPB185 watch come rain, come sunshine.

The Market Response

Since their release almost three years ago, the SPB185 and SPB187 have received rave reviews from Seiko fans and watch enthusiasts. Be it those who copped it as soon as it dropped or those who hopped on the bandwagon later on, everyone attests to the unique blend of style, functionality, and just how good of a job they did in terms of reinterpreting the 1968 models. Despite its discontinuation, this awesome reception explains why it has been such a hit in the market. The SPB185, with its black dial, has been particularly popular, often preferred over the blue-dialed SPB187.

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Photogenic Appeal and Versatility

One of the most striking aspects of the SPB185 and SPB187 is their photogenic appeal. If you have ever stumbled on pictures from the 1968 model, you will see just how classy it looks, decades after its release and these interpretations continue on that legacy. Whether it's the deep blue sunray dial of the SPB187 or the matte black dial of the SPB185, both watches have a captivating presence that translates beautifully in photographs. This has made them a fan favorite, with watch photographers and enthusiasts always seizing every opportunity to showcase these beauty called timepieces, on different social media platforms.

Another factor contributing to their high demand is just how versatile these watches are. We at Strapcode particularly like these watches as they make pairing with loads of watch bands very easy for us. This feature makes it adaptable to different styles and occasions. So, whether you're dressing up for a formal event or going for a casual outing, these watches can seamlessly complement your look.

With its leather lining and versatile earth tone, this sailcloth watch strap brings a down-to-earth yet stylish complement to the Seiko Prospex SPB185.

Market Performance and Reception

Since their release in 2020, the SPB185 and SPB187 have performed exceptionally well in the market. Despite being discontinued, they continue to be highly sought after by watch collectors and enthusiasts. Their popularity can be attributed to their unique blend of affordability, functionality, and style, which sets them apart from other models in the Prospex collection.

The SPB185, with its black dial, has been particularly popular among Seiko fans. Its modern and sleek appearance, coupled with its robust features, has made it a fan-favorite. The SPB187, with its classic and handsome vibe, has also received positive reviews, placing these watches right at the heart of the folklore of Seiko Successes. Both watches come with bracelets and are priced at $1,200, reflecting their status as high-end luxury sports watches.

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Reflections from the Seiko Community

In my spare time, I get involved in many fan discourses, and if you know anything about the Seiko community, you would know just how vocal they have been about their admiration for the SPB185 and SPB187. Seiko fans have shared their thoughts and experiences with these watches on various watch forums and discussion platforms. Many have praised their comfortable fit, thanks to their reduced size compared to the original 6159 Marine Master. Others have highlighted their impressive power reserve and reliable automatic movement to be their standout features, as they kept these features intact from the 1968 model in this reinterpretation and even bettered it!.

Choosing this simplistic honeycomb weave pattern nylon watch strap means you enjoy not just a durable strap, but one with understated beauty to complement the vintage-inspired looks of the Seiko SPB185 watch.

Conclusion

With every watch Seiko releases, you can see that craftsmanship and innovation are at the top of their agenda. The SPB185 and SPB187 are perfect examples of this, combining the best of both worlds, i.e., Seiko's watchmaking expertise with modern design elements.

Despite their relatively short production run, these reinterpretation models of the 1968 models have left a lasting impression on the watch community, and while I trust watch-making fans to continue to keep their eyes peeled on what Seiko does next, be rest assured I will be doing the same.

Written by Victor, images by Toni

~ April 2024 Updates

Upgrade your Seiko Prospex SPB185 and SPB187 with this custom-fitted Super Boyer stainless steel watch band. Designed to perfectly match the contours of these legendary Seiko 1968 reinterpretations, the band features curved solid end pieces for a seamless fit. The included pair of FAT spring bars (Generic Seiko Dia. 2.5mm) ensures a secure connection, while the Baton double lock buttoned diver's clasp, made of solid 316L stainless steel, offers extra micro-adjustment holes for a precise, comfortable fit. Compatible with the original Seiko 18mm buckle, this watch band is the perfect choice for those seeking a well-made and sturdy bracelet to elevate their Seiko Prospex SPB185 and SPB187.

External References

• Introducing Seiko Prospex Diver’s 1968 Reinterpretation SPB185 & SPB187 (Live Pics & Price)

• Introducing the Seiko Prospex SPB185 and SPB187, the Newest Additions to the 6159 Lineage
• Seiko SPB185 Dive Watch With A Smart “Shovel” Seconds Hand