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The Seiko SKX
The Background
The Seiko SKX is a legendary watch and the collection is highly respected among watch enthusiasts with raving reviews on any watch forum. It is arguably one of the most well-loved and popular dive watches of all time.
They were introduced by the Seiko brand in 1996 and two of the models (the SKX007 and SKX009 model) became some the best-selling divers watches of the time, with a self-winding automatic movement, a date display. The SKX007 model was recognised by many a watch enthusiast as one of the best mechanical watches for its money.
Sadly, Seiko stopped making the SKX collection before being replaced by the Seiko 5. However, when they were in production (from 1996 until 2019), Seiko made lots of of them and therefore second-hand models are still available now. Some of the SKX models were only introduced to the Japanese domestic market.
The 1964 Olympics were held in Japan and Seiko were the official timekeepers. They designed a watch, which was the predecessor to the SKX range, which was intended to rival any Swiss watch manufacturer.
Why Did People Love the SKX?
Seiko introduced the SKX as a continuation of their original diver’s watches which were very strong contenders to rival many Swiss-made divers watches but at a much more affordable price.
The design was elegant, the build was excellent with reliability and endurance.
Features of the SKX
Automatic Movement
All of the watches in the SKX collection were fitted with an automatic movement (the Seiko 7S26), which was reputed to be so well designed and made that it would not need a service for many years. This is a self-winding movement with a power reserve of around 40 hours.
Anti-Shock System
With an anti-shock system designed by Seiko, ruling out damage to the watch by inadvertent drops and knocks.
Day and Date Display
It featured a day date display window at the 3 o’clock position.
Stainless Steel Case & Range of Straps
With a stainless steel case, the straps could be rubber or a Nato strap was also popular. A polished stainless steel bracelet alternative, with adjustable hollow end links mean adjusting is straightforward.
Luminescent
Luminous hands and hour markers, and a now-iconic dial make this an easy-to-read watch.
Crystal
The glass used in this watch is a Hardlex crystal – which is a step above mineral glass (which sapphire crystal being the best).
Water Resistance
The SKX watches are 200m water resistant and a screw-down crown.
Size
The case size measured 42mm wide which sits really well on even a small or medium-sized wrist and many owners love the shape and dimensions of the watch on their wrist.
Affordable Watches
For all of these features, the Seiko SKX often came in at under $500 which is no small feat for a watch of this quality that was created to rival many Swiss watches. Nothing feels cheap about the SKX and many owners love this range from Seiko.
Rolex Datejust
Many enthusiasts on watch forums have compared the features of the Seiko SKX range to the Rolex Datejust which was Rolex’s first self-winding, water resistance watch with a day and date display – the date window at the 3 o’clock position.
Finding a Seiko SKX Watch
Whilst the manufacturer have now discontinued the SKX, you may still be able to find a new one from a watch enthusiast/seller albeit with collectors prices. You can also find pre-owned models. There is also a range of parts that you can switch and change and make your watch unique.
Seiko 5
The Seiko 5 Sports collection became the worthy replacement to the SKX range. Seiko state that the number 5 in the Seiko 5 line represents the five key components to the collection – water resistance, a day and date function, luminous hands, an automatic movement, a recessed crown and its durable case and strap/bracelet.
Many watch enthusiasts say that this should include the Diashock movement (anti-shock), and a Diaflex mainspring which demonstrate the movements reliability and durability. They come with a range of band materials – a stainless steel bracelet or rubber or nylon straps.
