The seventh entry in an ongoing series of TOPPER Edition watches specially designed for Northern California retailer Topper Jewelers, introduces a stealthy and exclusive color treatment to a fan-favorite Seiko Prospex diver.
The Seiko 'Prospex' (Japanese shorthand for “Professional Specifications”) story is one that has rightfully earned its place in watch collector lore. Justifiably so, as pieces bearing the signature 'X' have been expressly purpose-built to the specifications demanded by marine professionals, military pilots, and adventure-seekers alike, ensuring total dependability virtually anywhere on the planet. This includes extreme water resistance, enhanced shock and magnetic resistance, and improved legibility in any lighting environment.
This very special TOPPER Edition Prospex Dive watch was inspired by that pure capability and adventurous spirit, and is built around the foundation and dial architecture of the SPB077 Diver. Introduced in 2018, the SPB077 is a thoroughly modern tool watch that continues the traditions of Seiko's groundbreaking 6159 Hi-Beat Diver from 1968, which would go on to set the bar for all Prospex watches to follow. Like the SPB077, this TOPPER Edition includes a highly scratch resistant sapphire crystal, and Seiko's newest long-lasting LumiBrite on the hands and markers which lasts approximately 60% longer than previous applications.
However, unlike 2018's standard-issue SPB077 Prospex model, this new Limited Edition heeds a series of unique design codes specially selected by Topper and Seiko Watch of America with the collective goal of yielding an entirely new reference in the Seiko family that should slot neatly alongside the fan-favorite 'Darth Tuna' and 'Ninja Turtle' Prospex models.
Most immediately apparent, is how this special Limited Edition is finished in a super-hard black coating, lending the watch a stealthy, monochromatic on-wrist aesthetic. But a closer look reveals other thoughtful touches; like a date wheel color-matched to the black dial, and a bright orange-tipped seconds hand to balance the Prospex diver's signature lumed counterweight. This Japan-made diver is finished with two other key signatures: an ultra-soft silicone diver's strap with a re-designed Prospex pin buckle, and Seiko's 6R15 movement, which delivers better accuracy and a longer power reserve (over 50 hours) over the 4R36 movement utilized on many Prospex watches.