After many years complaining that other areas of the world receive the coolest region exclusive Seikos, the last 12 months have been really good for Europe. Back in September 2023 they released the ‘Silfra’ Turtle and Tortoise, which are wonderfully rugged and interesting (we actually have the ‘Silfra’ Tortoise in the office as I write, for an upcoming project). Now, Seiko have launched another European exclusive but this time it’s dedicated to the warm Mediterranean rather than Iceland – it’s called the Seiko Prospex Limited Edition 1965 Recreation European Exclusive in Gradation Island Blue.
Jumping straight to the dial, it’s awesome. It has a vertical gradient that runs from light to dark blue with a wave pattern running horizontally along the length. It’s strongly evocative of the shallow waters where a beach gives way to the deeper sea along the edge of the Mediterranean. Many dive watches use a much darker version of this gradient pattern to represent the cold, dark depths. But here, the relatively light shades make it feel like a tropical environment where you can feel the warmth of the sun through the water. Plus, I’m a fan of when Seiko remind us of their connection to Grand Seiko with a nature inspired pattern.
Beyond the dial, the watch is a pretty standard 1965 Diver Recreation in steel, measuring 40.5mm in diameter by 13.15mm in thickness with 200m water resistance. It has a flowing arc from lug to lug with each lug having sharply angled edges that cut in towards the steel bracelet. After the launch of the 1965 Diver 300m earlier this year, it does make me question why the improved case hasn’t been standardised across the entire 1965 Diver range. I can only assume it’s because they house different movements.
The Prospex Limited Edition 1965 Recreation European Exclusive in Gradation Island Blue uses the Seiko 6R35, which is a staple of Seiko’s higher performance models. It has a great 70-hour power reserve, which means it often outperforms Sellita and ETA movements at similar price points in terms of power longevity. So, while it is on the pricier side of Seiko at £1,290, it still represents solid value. It’s also limited to 1,000 pieces and will only be available in Europe.
I think I can safely say that this is my favourite Seiko design of 2024 so far. Bright, colourful and fun. If it only had that enhanced 300m water resistance rating, I would already have my name down for one.
Price and Specs:
More details at Seiko Boutique.
