Seiko Orange Monster
Last modified on 2013-03-22 09:41:15 GMT. 0 comments. Top.
“The Monster”
SKX781K Orange Monster.[In Japan : SKX781K3] SKX779K Black Monster. SKZ203K Yellow Monster – Limited Edition 300 Pieces. SKZ243K Red Monster – Limited Edition 1313 Pieces. SKZ213K Blue Monster – Limited Production Run. The Seiko Orange Monster is probably the best known of this series. Few dive watches costing under $200 capture peoples interest and attention as much as the the Seiko “Monster”. It is one of those iconic watches considered one of the best Seiko Dive watches out there for the money. Its burly, colorful and cool, not only that but its extremely well made, reliable and very durable. Its not surprising its so popular and has become affectionately known as the “Monster”. The combination of case and bezel are slightly reminiscent of an old six shooter gun barrel and has a satisfying heft to it. The crown is screw down as you’d expect on a proper dive watch and is placed at the 4’Oclock position for comfort. It has sturdy guards either side of it. The 7S26 automatic movement is one of the most popular movements produced and has a long and venerable history with a reputation for ruggedness and reliability, one that can take a lickin’ and still keep on tickin’. Of all Seiko dive watches the Monster is famous for its phenomenal luminosity thanks to the generous use of Seiko’s trademarked Lumibrite. Considered an essential addition by many watch collectors.
Basic Specifications:
Size 46mm
Depth 14mm
Caliber: 7S26 Automatic
Water resistance: 200m
Price: $150
Introduced: 2001Seiko Tuna
Last modified on 2013-03-15 18:58:15 GMT. 0 comments. Top.
The SeikoTuna
This Seiko Dive watch, SBBN007 got its nickname due to its similarity to a can of Tuna (when viewed from the side.) The Seiko Tuna is part of the Prospex line of Seiko Dive watches which are a range of upscale watches from Seiko, and the overall build quality and specifications are a cut above the Monster and other 7S26 powered divers. The Tuna is even bigger than the “Monster” at 48mm not including the crown and is 14mm thick. Ticking inside its stainless steel hulk is a 7C46 quartz movement made specifically for this model and extremely accurate. The battery is rated to last 5 years and theres a small engraved mark which signifies which year the battery should be changed which is a neat idea. The crystal is heavily domed adding a nice stylistic effect to the watch and further enhancing its bold impression, this exaggerated doming pushes it beyond the protection of the bezel so care needs to be taken to avoid scratching. The Tuna uses Seiko’s propriety Hardlex crystal material which is more shatterproof than sapphire but not as scratch resistant. Like the monster the Seiko Tuna uses Seiko’s Lumibrite, and although not quite as bright as the Monster it still has a good glow to it. Seiko Tuna Basic Specifications: Water resistance: 300m Size: 48mm Caliber : 7C46 Quartz Price: $500 still available some places in Japan and secondhand in US/EU (New model SBBN017 approx $800 depending on exchange rate)Seiko Samurai
Last modified on 2013-03-22 09:37:37 GMT. 1 comment. Top.
“The Samurai“
SBDA-series – Titanium (Japan only) SNM-series – Stainless Steel (International) (SBDA005 pictured) There have been various reasons attributed to “The Samurai’s” nickname, including that the watch hands resemble a samurai sword…or that it came about due to photos that were initially circulated of the watch in front of a Japanese castle. Whatever the reason, one way to easily identify a Seiko Samurai is by the unique Bezel design. The case design is more angular and less rugged in appearance than the monster and with the subtler white or black face versions could even be worn in a formal setting. The stainless steel versions were priced much cheaper than the Ti versions and not just due to the differences in metal used but also because, unlike the Ti versions they were assembled in China. Both the Titanium and SS versions have been discontinued, the SS first and then the Ti version in January 2008 and so it can be quite difficult to get hold of. There were slight stylistic differences between the SS and Ti versions, the SS versions don’t have crown guards for instance. Since the Titanium version is not Durashield protected its more prone to scratches than the stainless one. As Seiko dive watches go, the lume on the Samurai glows brightly but tends to taper off quite quickly. Seiko Samurai Basic Specifications: Released in 2004. Water resistance: 200m Diameter: 42 mm excluding crown Thickness: 13.7 mm Caliber: 7S25 Automatic, non-hackingSeiko Sumo
Last modified on 2013-03-22 09:32:28 GMT. 2 comments. Top.
“The Sumo“
Seiko SBDC line of dive watches. With the “Sumo” Seiko marked its return to high grade, reasonably priced dive watches that came with a hacking, hand winding automatic movement. The Seiko Sumo represents a super price/performance ratio. For a mechanical movement it keeps excellent time and is very sturdy. The fit and finish for a watch in this price point is extremely high and the quality is close to the more expensive Marine Master. The generously-sized case is handsomely sculpted and features subtle contrasts between brushed and polished surfaces which adds to its appeal and is reminiscent of the Marine Master. On its first release various nicknames were discussed, in the end the final name that stuck was “Sumo” due to its large and fat appearance. Seiko Sumo Basic Specifications: Diameter: 48.5 mm Thickness: 14 mm Caliber: 6R15B, 23 jewels Water resistance: 300m Price: $450Seiko Marine Master
Last modified on 2013-03-22 09:25:31 GMT. 0 comments. Top.
“The Marine Master“
Seiko SBDX 001 The Seiko Marine Master soon garnered a high reputation among Seiko dive watch enthusiasts, for many becoming the definitive Seiko dive watch. The Marine Master is part of Seiko’s high end Professional Divers Series, those with water resistance above 200m developed for use in saturation diving. Though a lot of people refer to the Seiko Professional Diver series as ‘Marine Masters’, the SBDX 001 is the genuine Marine Master, the only one with it written on the dial. At 210 grams this is a hefty watch. One of the reasons for its weight is its one piece monocoque case design which increases water resistance. If weight is an issue this can be alleviated by changing the SS bracelet for the included rubber one. The movement is the 8L35 with 26 Jewels and a 50 Hour Power reserve and accurate to within 10-15 seconds a month. This is the only seiko dive watch that uses this movement, which is also used in some Grand Seiko’s, it is also one of few that is individually hand assembled. The crystal is domed Hardlex with anti-reflective coating. Seiko Marine Master Basic Specifications: Diameter: 44mm Thickness: 14mm Water resistance: 300m Caliber: 8L35 Automatic 26 Jewels Price: $2000Seiko Arnie. The Seiko H558-5009
Last modified on 2024-01-15 18:19:36 GMT. 42 comments. Top.
The Legendary Seiko Arnie Diver’s Watch
The Seiko H558 Arnie is an iconic dive watch that has reached cult status amongst watch enthusiasts and collectors. Named after famous actor and politician Arnold Schwarzenegger who wore it in several 80’s action movies, the Arnie combines a tough, rugged design with innovative hybrid technology. Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to the 80’s heyday of this bold timepiece.
Table of Contents
A Watch Fit for an Action Hero
In his 80’s action prime, Arnold Schwarzenegger was an absolute superstar. Films like The Terminator, Predator, Commando and The Running Man cemented his status as the decade’s ultimate one-man army action hero.
It was while filming several of these hardcore action flicks that Arnie famously wore a Seiko H558 dive watch. Its aggressive style perfectly matched his tough, no-nonsense military characters. When images of the Austrain Oak wearing this dynamic watch spread, sales of the Seiko H558 exploded globally.
Soon the watch adopted Arnie’s nickname and was forevermore known as “The Seiko Arnie”. It had earned iconic status as the ultimate 80’s action watch.
A Hybrid Design Years Ahead of Its Time
When it launched in 1982, the H558 Arnie was an advanced hybrid that marries analogue and digital technology. It featured:
- Traditional automatic watch hands to display the time
- Digital LCD display to enable added functions
This analog-digital design was groundbreaking over 30 years ago. The Seiko Arnie was loaded with space-age features:
- 150m water resistance
- Alarm
- Chronograph stopwatch
- Dual time zones
- Day/date displays
The watch was engineered to be a reliable extreme adventure companion. Tests by Seiko included:
- Temperatures from -40 °C to +60 °C
- Joining climbers ascending Mount Everest
- North and South Pole expeditions
The Arnie was years ahead in foreshadowing today’s smartwatch concept. It packed advanced functions into an impenetrably rugged case and bezel design.
The Origins of Seiko’s Iconic “Tuna Can” Shroud
The Arnie features Seiko’s instantly recognizable “Tuna Can” protective outer shroud. This gives the watch its iconic bulky, industrial look.
The origins of this casing design come from 1970’s Seiko dive watches like the 6159-7010 and SBBN007 can be . These early pieces were commissioned by professional saturation divers working in the North Sea oil and gas industry.
The shroud was engineered to shield the watch from the impacts and corrosion faced under extreme marine work conditions. It added an extra layer of impermeable protection to keep the movement safe at great ocean depths.
The Arnie brought this extreme shielding to the masses. Its more affordable price made the use of shrouds and advanced technology accessible beyond only industrial crews.
The Return of a Legend with the Modern Arnie Re-Issue
After being out of production for decades, Seiko relaunched the Arnie in 2019 for a new generation.
The SNJ025P1 model is essentially a re-issue of the 1980’s design but with upgraded features. While visually almost identical, improvements include:
- Solar-powered charging
- 200m water resistance
- Titanium carbide coated stainless steel case
- Modern lumibrite lume
This modern refresh keeps the spirit of the original fully intact. The super popular re-issue sold out instantly and continues to be extremely sought after on the secondary market.
The Arnie’s Impressive and Intimidating Wrist Presence
When strapped onto your wrist, the Seiko Arnie makes quite a statement. It has an imposing wrist presence due to its anti-subtle design aspects:
Size
- 47.8mm diameter
- 51.3mm lug to lug
- 14.4mm thick
Aggressive style
- Jet black shroud and bezel
- Chunky buttons
- Military digital font
Quirky asymmetry
- Offset buttons, crown, LCD display
- Protruding plastic casing
The Seiko Arnie is a long way from a refined dress watch. It shouts its extreme capabilities without apology. This unmistakable look is impossible to ignore and has become iconic of the 1980’s action movie era.
Why Has the Seiko Arnie Developed Such a Strong Following?
So what makes the Arnie so special? Why has this quirky, niche Japanese dive watch gained such an enthusiastic following?
Pure nostalgia
The Arnie rocketed to fame on the muscular forearms of 80’s most famous action star. It oozes machismo and the carefree excitement of 80’s action cinema. For movie fans, it represent a glorious, uncomplicated era of entertainment.
Appreciation for uniqueness
The Arnie’s weird design and asymmetry are far from normal. It disregards conventions and stands out as radically different. For some collectors, its individuality and conversation-starting look are irresistible.
Respect for extreme capabilities
While rarely needed, the Seiko Arnie has seriously tough specs. 500m water resistance, professional grade construction and advanced complications make it over-qualified for nearly every situation.
Admiration of Schwarzenegger himself
Arnold remains one of the most renowned pop culture figures in the world. His fans connect with wearing the same watch as the living legend during the prime years of his fame.
The Seiko Arnie is all about attitude. Its bold styling and improbable rise to fame make it appealing to watch collectors seeking something different from the norm. The Arnie’s weirdness is its superpower!
The Verdict: An Ultimate 80’s Icon
In summary, the Seiko Arnie dive watch:
- Rose to fame on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s wrist in blockbuster 80’s action flicks
- Pioneered an advanced combination analogue/digital design years ahead of its time
- Features Seiko’s iconic protective shroud for extreme environment durability
- Made cutting-edge adventuring functionality accessible to wider audiences
- Was revived in 2019 to the delight of fans worldwide, immediately selling out
- Boasts an imposing, anti-subtle wrist presence that demands attention
- Enjoy legend status due to its nostalgia, uniqueness and extreme capabilities
Ultimately, the Arnie is one-of-a-kind both in looks, reputation and adventurous spirit. It encapsulates a memorable era of action cinema and makes a fun, conversational collector’s piece. The Seiko Arnie stands in a league of its own as an Japanese icon merging pop culture, innovative technology and extreme performance.
Seiko H558-500A – “Orange Arnie”
The Vintage 1983 Seiko H558-500A Orange “Arnie” holds a special place in the world of horology due to its historical significance, unique design, and limited availability. Its distinctive orange dial and the combination of analog and digital features make it a standout piece in the realm of vintage watches, particularly for those with an interest in dive watches and Seiko’s heritage.
