Seiko Release Prospex Glacier ‘Save the Ocean’ 110th Anniversary Limited Edition

Only three things are certain in life: death, taxes and new Seiko ‘Save the Ocean’ watches. The Save the Ocean series is one of the most rapidly expanding collections in Seiko’s wheelhouse, impressive considering their release slate is already prolific, and the latest addition is the new Prospex Glacier Save the Ocean SPB333.

Structurally, it’s based on the Heritage Turtle launched in the summer. That means the stainless steel case has a 41mm diameter with a thickness of 12.3mm, up there with the thinnest diving watches Seiko produce. It also has the characteristic curved body that gives the design the Turtle nickname, as well as the crown positioned at 4 o’clock.

What makes the SPB333 different from the summer turtles is its textured dial. It has a silvery white colour with vertical engraved lines creating a rough surface. The result is a dial that looks like it’s carved from the face of a polar glacier. It serves as a reminder of the vulnerable ecosystems and environments that are at risk across the world, those that Seiko aid through their Save the Ocean initiative.

There are two strap options for this special edition. One is the standard Turtle five link steel bracelet, the other has been specially produced just for the SPB333. It’s a NATO style strap made from recycled plastic bottles with a traditional Japanese braid pattern called Seichu.

Inside the watch, it houses the automatic calibre 6R35, which has an impressive 70-hour power reserve. Arguably it’s one of the best accessible calibres around. It would be nice to see it but it’s protected by a solid steel caseback.

As a special edition, the Seiko Prospex Turtle Save the Ocean SPB333 is limited to 5,000 pieces. Not exactly the most exclusive but limited enough to make it feel special. Pricewise, it’s slightly more expensive than the standard Heritage Turtle at €1,350 (approx. £1,160) instead of £990. However, it’s an increase that makes sense because of the detailed dial, extra strap and environmental support. Available from January 2023.