Seiko’s dive watches are among the best — and the most affordable, relative to their specs — in watchmaking. 

From the rare-as-hen's-teeth 6159, to the film-famous 6105 and 6309 models, to the economy workhorse SKX007, Japanese watchmakers perfected incredibly well-made tool watches decades ago — and at prices that make the most diehard Swiss watch fans bristle with jealousy.

The SLA023 from the Prospex line is an enthusiast’s dream. A recreation of a late 1960s original, it’s one of the purest expressions of a serious diver’s watch in the contemporary Seiko arsenal — robust, beautiful, and thoughtfully designed. 

This particular example features a 44.3mm stainless steel monoblock case with holey lugs, a sapphire crystal, a signed crown at 4:00, and a luminous blue ceramic dive timing bezel. Inside we find a luminous navy blue sunburst dial with oversized, applied indices a matching handset, a date window at 3:00 and Seiko’s automatic Caliber 8L35 movement with 50 hours of power reserve. It comes paired to a matching stainless steel multi-link bracelet with a signed locking push-button clasp.

Accompanied by its factory goodies and excellent condition throughout, this SLA023 is truly a serious diver’s dream. Though if you’re not a diver, you could do much worse in an everyday watch…and you’ll be given serious props by those ‘in the know’ along the way!