Based on the fan-favourite SPB143, the new range is upgraded with three days of power reserve and 300m water resistance.
Having the Seiko Prospex SPB143 on the wrist is like meeting an old friend for the first time. You could’ve sworn you’ve been wearing it for years, despite all its latest enhancements. Introduced in 2020 as a tribute to Seiko’s original diver, the legendary 62MAS, the SPB143 does not engender nostalgia so much as an intimate feeling that it will fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, whatever it may be. It’s a fan favourite for a reason.
The SPB143’s versatility comes from its retro silhouette and short lugs, which allows the watch to settle onto most wrists comfortably. The stainless steel bezel with aluminium insert provides a classic look and feel that holds up well thanks to laser-engraved markings. Black and blue colourways continue to appeal, too. The SPB143 is a straightforward daily diver — nothing overtly fancy, what you see is what you get.
What has improved is its performance. The newest models based on the SPB143 are powered by the Calibre 6R55, with up to 72 hours, or three days, of power reserve. They are also reinforced with 300m water resistance (up from 200m), a first for the Prospex line of non-saturation divers. On the dial, the date aperture has been relocated to ‘4:30’ to improve the presence and legibility of the five-minute markers, which is a specification in the latest ISO standard for dive watches.
There is also a special edition commemorating 100 years of the “Seiko” text taking pride of place on the dial. Unlike the regular models, this one has a bit more pizzazz with a handsome charcoal dial and gold-coloured accents. It also comes with an additional strap crafted entirely from recycled plastic bottles, woven using a traditional Japanese braiding technique called Seichu. Clearly, the new iterations of the SPB143 (SPB451, SPB453, and special edition SPB455) are far from plain; in fact, they do a lot with fairly little, using familiarity as their greatest strength. Just like reconnecting with old friends.
