GMTs galore! Seiko introduces the Prospex SPB381, SPB383 and SPB385
Borna BošnjakMany new releases from Seiko rely on inspiration from the brand’s rich back catalogue, and the case of the new Prospex GMT 1968 Diver’s Re-interpretation follows that trend. Basing their design on the 6159-7001 reference that followed the very first dive watch from Seiko, the 62MAS, the 1968 Diver’s GMT features the 4 o’clock crown, wide diver’s bezel and broad sword hands and indices of the original. Rather than just upgrading the materials, however, the new trio consisting of the Seiko Prospex GMT SPB381, SPB383 and SPB385 also add functionality via the addition of a GMT hand.
Compared to other 1968 Diver’s re-interpretations, there are minor changes to the case and bracelet, apart from the new movement. The stainless-steel bezel and its ceramic insert have been reduced in diameter, making it more wearable, even though the diameter is kept the same at 42mm, while the sapphire crystal with AR coating brings the height to 12.9mm. The remainder of the stainless-steel case and three-link bracelet are also covered in a super-hard coating for improved scratch resistance, while the re-profiled links of the bracelet feature a polished facet for extra dimensionality.
The three dial colours all take inspiration from the sea. Emerald Antarctic waters lend their hue to the green SPB381, while the black dial is modelled after the deep sea, while the flash of gold in the GMT hand comes from the lights of a city after dark. Finally, the highly textured dial of the Save the Ocean Limited Edition SPB385 comes from the icy, undulating surfaces of Antarctic glaciers.
Since the well-received release of the 5KX GMT, Seiko has been quick to adapt the second time zone function to many other pieces. Rather than 4R34 in the brand’s entry-level offering, the 6R54 in the 1968 Diver’s GMT offers 72 hours of power reserve, beating at 21,600 vph. The GMT hand is just a caller-style, however, adjusting independently of the hour hand.
Seiko Prospex GMT SPB381, SPB383 and SPB385 pricing and availability:
The Seiko Prospex 1968 Diver’s Modern Re-Interpretation GMT SPB381 and SPB383 are available now as regular production models. Price: A$2,500
The Seiko Watchmaking 110th Anniversary Seiko Prospex Save the Ocean Limited Edition SPB385 is available now as a limited edition of 4,000 pieces. Price: A$2,800
| Brand | Seiko |
| Model | Prospex 1968 Diver’s Modern Re-Interpretation GMT Watchmaking 110th Anniversary Seiko Prospex Save the Ocean Limited Edition |
| Reference Number | SPB381 SPB383 SPB385 |
| Case Dimensions | 42mm (D) x 12.9mm (T) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 200 metres |
| Dial | Green, black, textured ice blue |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire with AR coating |
| Strap | Stainless steel bracelet with triple-folding clasp and diver’s extension |
| Movement | In-house 6R54 calibre, 21,600 vph |
| Power Reserve | 72 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, second time zone |
| Availability | Now, SPB385 limited to 4,000 pieces |
| Price | A$2,500 (SPB381, SPB383) A$2,800 (SPB385) |