Seiko regularly surprises us with the new limited edition. Typically, they are variations of existing models that introduce new dials and eye-catching colors. But sometimes, limited series is more than that. With the introduction of today’s new trio of watches, Seiko treats us to some first-firsts fans that fans certainly love. The most important news is the release of Seiko Prospex Marinemaster SLA081. This is a new high-end titanium marinade master model based on the brand’s 1968 diver. Plus, you’ll get the new SPB511, a popular modern take variation on the 62MAS, and another version of the Prospex GMT diver, the SPB509. Let’s find out more!
Before we get into the details of each of the three models, the overarching theme here is the beautiful wave dial. Seiko knocked it out of the park along with these. The dark blue dials on the SLA081 and SPB509 are particularly great. Add depth and texture to these limited editions to make them stand out quickly. We all know that Seiko and Grand Seiko introduce many new dials each year, so it’s special that these have such an impact. Zoom in to three new models and explain them.
Seiko Prospex Marinemaster SLA081
Kick things off with a big kahuna. The new Seiko Prospex Marinemaster SLA081 stands out from the other two watches. But once you pick it up, you will be surprised as it is lighter than you initially thought. The watch features a 16mm thick 45.4mm titanium case and a relatively reasonable 50mm lug-to-lug.
This is a monoblock case with an L-shaped gasket to prevent helium invasion, eliminating the need for escape valves and making this watch suitable for saturated diving. This structure nods to the first generation of expert “tuna” divers introduced in 1975, and the reason why Seiko added the word “professional” to the dial. Overall, it also looks like the Marinemaster 300 SBDX001 that readers know and love, as it is an impressive case modeled after that of the brand’s 1968 diver.
Based on its dimensions, it is fair to say that this is a large watch. But thanks to the lightweight titanium, it certainly doesn’t feel that way. The case features a titanium bezel with stainless steel inserts treated with a DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating, and equipped with white engraved figures and markers.
Seiko combined the case with a beautiful dark blue gradient dial to mimic complex wave patterns that mimic the great depths of the ocean. I love the blue shade Seiko chose to ooze out his style and further emphasize the aquatic inspiration on the watch. The dial features contrasting indexes processed with Seiko Lumibrite, providing excellent readability in the dark.
New bracelet and black DLC bumper for SLA081
Complete the look is a new five-row titanium bracelet. That’s also where it gets interesting. As you can see, between the end link and the case there are two black DLC-coated stainless steel parts that attach the bezel to hold it in place. These bumpers are attached to the case, and the monoblock case makes it easier to maintain your watch.
It is an interesting choice that works well for the intended purpose. If I had designed this watch, I wouldn’t have made the bumper black, but that makes sense as the stainless steel color is different from the titanium color. The new bracelet itself has a more rounded link and also features a redesigned clasp with diving extensions and an extra folding lock.
Within the case, Seiko is equipped with the SLA081 with the latest in-house caliber 8L45. It operates at 28,800VPH, has 35 gems and offers a 72-hour power reserve. The caliber incorporates Seiko’s unique spron alloy. This material is designed for durability against breakage, rust and wear, ensuring resilience in harsh underwater conditions. Thanks to the thinner, longer main spring, the power reserve has increased over that of the previous 8L35. The new 8L45 movement also has officially stated accuracy of -5/+10 seconds per day.
This new Seiko Prospex SLA081 is an impressive professional diving watch that is surprisingly easy to wear thanks to its brightness. Seiko will produce 600 of this limited edition. This will be available worldwide for 4,900 euros starting in July 2025.
SPB511 (left) and SPB509 (right)
New Seiko Prospex SPB509 GMT Diver
Seiko has announced two more 60th annual models, a variation of the popular Prospex dive watch, along with the new high-end Prospex Marinemaster. The first is the SPB509, the GMT version of the 1968 Diver’s modern reinterpretation.
That’s why it relates to the SPB381, SPB383 and SPB385 GMT dive watches released by Seiko in 2023. The SPB509 comes in a 42mm case with a thickness of 13.3mm and 48.8mm lagtoo lug. This stainless steel case features a super-hard coating and a depth rating of 300m (an improvement of 100m compared to previous models).
The topping on the case is a beautiful dark blue bezel insert that matches the stunning blue wave dial. You may have noticed that this motif differs from the SLA081 motif, and has much more prominent waves. I have to give Seiko a great compliment for choosing two blue shades that work very well with these dials. They reflect the depth of the ocean and give them an immediate purpose.
The contrasting blue dial is a 12 large time markers filled with Lumibrite. The silver hand showing local time is combined with a short golden GMT hand showing time in another time zone. The 24-hour scale corresponding to this hand is found on the dial’s re-housing, and fits well into the design without interfering with the diving purpose of the watch.
Like previous releases, the crown is on the right side of the case, just above the 4 o’clock marker. Seiko has subtly integrated the date window between 4am and 5am, so it doesn’t stand out unless you focus. For me, it’s exactly what should a date window in a functional tool watch like this.
New clasp that Seiko fans will love
Finally, the new bracelet gives a beautiful look. This three-row bracelet is equipped with new clasps that should hit fans. Finally, Seiko responded to the call for a new clasp with a micro-tunable system. But the brand has gone for faster sizing, not only to integrate it. The new milled clasp is wonderful, thin and extremely refined. As a result, many fans are welcome to open this change.
Hidden behind the steel case is Seiko’s internal caliber 6R54. This automatic GMT movement runs at 21,600VPH and offers a 72-hour power reserve. Caller-style GMT movement allows you to adjust your hands independently for 24 hours. No, that’s not a very definitive flyer-style movement, but there are no major drawbacks to caller-style GMT calibers unless you move around time zones frequently. Seiko will produce 6,000 units of this second, 60th annual model, and will be sold for 1,900 euros starting June 2025.
New Seiko Prospex SPB511
The final of the three new models is the Seiko Prospex SPB511. This watch is based on Seiko’s famous modern interpretation of 62 squares. As some of you know, the latest iteration of the series debuted about a year ago, and Thomas wrote about it here. Before that, it was the first series of modern 62-tas style divers, including the extremely popular SPB143.
This new Seiko Prospex SPB511 features a 13mm thick and a 46.3mm lug-to-lug 40mm stainless steel case. Like the SPB509 GMT, the case and bracelet are coated with a super-hard coating, and the watch is rated at 300m depth.
The case features a one-way stainless steel bezel holding a gray insert with white numbers and markers. It complements the silver wave dial very well. This has the same pattern as the blue dial on the SPB509. For those wondering, Seiko has inspired this from the image of the waves behind many brands of diving watches.
New refined clasp to improve overall look
The combination of silver dial and dark gray bezel makes this SPB511 stand out immediately. The time marker is somewhat mixed with the color of the dial, but the slightly different shades of Lumibrite bring about slight color differences. Finishing the look of the watch is a three-row bracelet, featuring a new clasp.
This new clasp creates the miracle of this new model, especially the new model. This is the most refined of the three, and sometimes you’ll benefit most in terms of overall profile. The watch looks better and fans will love the improvements in functionality.
This watch is powered by an in-house Seiko Calibre 6R55. This automatic movement runs at 21,600VPH and provides a 72-hour power reserve, similar to the 6R54 GMT movement. Its accuracy is -15/+25 seconds per day.
Like the SPB509, the new SPB511 will be available from June 2025. The watch is a limited edition of 6,000 pieces and retails for 1,500 euros. This is the first variant of the current 62MAS-based line with brightly colored dials. Of course, that’s nothing new, but it’s great to see how nice it looks. It shows the power of the original 62MAS design and how Seiko transforms it into a modern everyday wearer.
Final Thoughts on the New Seiko Prospex 60th-Anniversary Divers
Seiko did an incredible job with this new trio of 60th anniversary dive watches. My favorite is SLA081. Because it’s so impressive. Despite its epic presence, the SLA081 is lightweight and brings back the stunning look of the most famous Marinade Master model. As a result, you will hit the correct notes exactly. What’s more, the monoblock structure is nothing but wonderful. Part of the newly constructed case is an L-shaped gasket to prevent helium invasion. This is a subtle nod to the legendary “tuna” celebrating this year’s anniversary. I hope that Seiko reveals its 50th tuna model in the coming months. For now, the SLA081, SPB509 and SPB511 are a great start to Seiko Dive Watches’ anniversary!
