Seiko Prospex Alpinist, a modern classic

Seiko is very well known for their advanced sports watches, especially the diving watches in the Prospex line. But did you know that Seiko's very first sports watch was one specifically developed for mountaineers? This Alpinist watch is still one of Seiko's most popular and most collected watches.

Know Your Classics: A short history of the Seiko Alpinist

The first Alpinist watch dates back to the late 1950s. The watch was specially made for Japanese mountaineers, known as Yama-Otoko. This watch was a game changer for Seiko; it was the first sports or tool watch long before the brand's first diving watch would appear. This now iconic watch had an easy-to-read dial, a shock-resistant movement and a simple but robust steel case. The indices had the triangular shape of mountain peaks.

These early Alpinist watches were only released in the Asian market and quickly became collector's items for Seiko enthousiasts worldwide.

In the nineties, Seiko decided to breathe new life into this classic and created a completely new Alpinist collection, which is still being expanded today with special models.

Limited EU edition Alpinist available at watch.co.uk

This year, Seiko has released the limited to 3000 copies SPB355 Rockface, released in the EU only. An exceptionally beautiful watch with a textured dial that reflects the sunlight like a rock face. The blue tones of the hands represent the clean mountain air, and the solid gray strap matches the dial for a cool modern look.

The watch contains an internal compass bezel, which is operated with the lower crown and a 'cyclops' date magnifying glass. Through the glass back cover we see the reliable automatic 6R35 movement with 70 hours of power reserve.

The SPB355 is engraved on the back with the limited edition numbering and comes as a set with an additional blue leather strap.

Other classics in our Alpinist collection 

The features of Alpinist watches have remained the same over the decades, but modernized: 20 ATM waterproof, shock resistant, easy to read dial and a sturdy leather or metal strap. You are assured of a modern, reliable automatic movement in a classic jacket.

For example, the SPB241J1 and the limited SJE085J1 are a contemporary reinterpretation of the original watch from 1959.

Create your own Seiko Alpinist classic

Is your favourite case-strap colour combination Alpinist not available at the moment? Then simply create your own classic with a different strap or bracelet. When you enter case code 6R35-00E0 in our unique strap finder you will find all straps that fit these Alpinist watches

Order Seiko Prospex Alpinist as a (Christmas) gift

At the moment we still have these special and limited Seiko Alpinist watches in stock. If you want to be sure your watch will be delivered before the holidays, order well in advance. There is very little risk involved, because you can return and exchange all products ordered in December 2022 up to 60 days after delivery!