Seiko 5

A Successful Model Since 1963

The Seiko 5 collection celebrated its premiere in 1963 with the Sportsmatic 5. Created by Seiko designer Ren Tanaka, the watch was aimed primarily at a younger audience and boasted five main features that gave the series its name:

• A mechanical movement with automatic winding
• A display for the date and day of the week
• A certain degree of protection against water (min. 30 m / 3 bar / 98 ft)
• A robust case
• A recessed crown at 4 o’clock

These points have remained more or less unchanged in every Seiko 5 to this day and are one of the reasons why the watches in the Seiko 5 series are among the best-selling automatic watches ever. Other reasons for their continuing success are their low prices, reliability, and the huge selection of models, colors, and designs. These features make the Seiko 5 the perfect watch for beginners. Collectors on a budget will also get their money’s worth with the Seiko 5.

The Technology of the Seiko 5

At the heart of every Seiko 5 is an in-house caliber with automatic winding. In current models, Seiko usually uses the caliber 4R36, while watches with a GMT display use the 4R34. One caliber that was often used in the collection in earlier years is the caliber 7S26 or its revised variant 7S36. Unlike the movements of the 4R family, the 7S calibers have neither a stop-seconds function nor a manual winding mechanism.

As far as the material is concerned, Seiko uses only stainless steel for the Seiko 5. This is usually satinized. However, you will also find models in which the case is coated with a black or gold PVD layer. Hardlex, developed by Seiko, is used to cover the dial. Stainless steel, leather, textile, or rubber straps ensure a secure fit on the wrist.

Seiko offers the Seiko 5 in numerous sizes from 37 mm to 42.5 mm. This makes the watches suitable for both men and women. The water resistance of modern models is 100 m (10 bar, 328 ft). Vintage models, on the other hand, are only water resistant to 30 m (3 bar, 98 ft) and are therefore only protected against splashing water.

Seiko 5 Prices

What does a Seiko 5 cost?

Prices for a Seiko 5 watch in mint condition start at around -. At this price, you can get the version with the reference number SNKE03K1 with a black-coated case and steel bracelet. For around 418.69 NZD you can buy the reference SNK803K2, a Seiko 5 in pilot’s watch style with a white dial and nylon strap.

If you are looking for a Seiko 5 diving watch with a classic look, you will find it for around 459.59 NZD with the reference number SRPD55K3. The limited edition Street Fighter V Blanka with the reference number SRPF23K1 is colorful and eye-catching for around 716.64 NZD.

You can buy watches in the retro style of the early Seiko 5 models such as the references SRPK17K1 or SRPL03K1 in unworn condition at prices between 897.75 NZD and 837.38 NZD.

Prices rise slightly for limited editions such as the Seiko 5 Sports Bruce Lee Edition SRPK39K1 or the SRPE83K1 dedicated to Queen guitarist Brian May. Plan between approx. 1,359.29 NZD and 1,645.55 NZD here.

Prices for Vintage Models of the Seiko 5

Vintage watches from the Seiko 5 series are available on Chrono24 from around 156 NZD. These are mostly simple three-hand watches from the 1970s and 1980s. Rarer models such as the Sportsmatic 5, the Speed Timer, andthe Actus require an investment of around 974 NZD to 1,558 NZD, depending on their condition.

The Seiko 5 and Its Wealth of Variants

The Seiko 5 is one of the most varied collections available and offers the right watch for almost every taste. If you are looking for a sporty and elegant everyday watch, for example, you have countless options to choose from. The unifying element of all these watches: They are suitable for formal occasions with a suit and tie as well as for a casual look with jeans and a T-shirt.

One example of a model that is appreciated for its simple elegance is the reference SNXS79. Thanks to its diameter of 37 mm, this Seiko 5 is perfect as a unisex watch. The same is true of the reference SNKE01K1, which has a slightly sportier look thanks to its bezel with a minute scale. If, on the other hand, you fancy a two-tone watch in the style of the Rolex Datejust, you should definitely take a look at the SNXJ90. This watch comes with a gold-plated fluted bezel and a five-row link bracelet with gold-plated center links.

Diving Watches and Street Style in the Seiko 5 Sports Line

The Seiko 5 Sports collection is largely characterized by diver’s watches in the style of the legendary Seiko Automatic Diver’s SKX007. Active outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy these robust sports watches just as much as desk divers who want to make a statement with a watch on their wrist.

The reference SRPD55 is particularly close to the original. If the 42.5 mm diameter seems a little too large for you, you can opt for the SRPK29 as an alternative. It has the same design features, but measures only 38 mm. The collection also offers a huge selection of color variations. The palette ranges from black and white to blue, green, and brown to orange, yellow, silver, and gold.

In addition to the various diving watches, the range also offers some watches that bridge the gap between tool and dress watches. The watches have a more restrained design and are therefore also suitable for formal occasions. The SRPE53 is an example of this. Its dial design and case shape largely correspond to those of the diving watches, but Seiko dispenses with the diving bezel and replaces it with a narrow dial bezel.

Seiko 5 in the Style of Field and Pilot’s Watches

Seiko’s Seiko 5 Sports Field collection brings together a series of watches inspired by the design of military and pilot’s watches. These watches are the right choice for anyone looking for a reliable and robust everyday watch with the best possible readability.

One example of a field watch is the reference SRPG27 with a black dial and stainless steel bracelet. The reference SRPH29, on the other hand, is designed in the style of a Fliegeruhr from the 1940s. The dial and textile strap of this watch are olive green.

Buy Seiko 5 on Chrono24

On Chrono24, the international marketplace for luxury watches, you will find an impressive selection of Seiko 5 watches – from cutting-edge models to rare vintage pieces. Making a purchase is not only user friendly, but also completely secure. Thanks to the escrow service, payment is secure, while the promise of authenticity creates trust. You can also use the optional Certified Service to have your watch professionally checked. Shipping is international and always insured. The competent quality and security team is at your disposal for all other matters.

FAQ

Is the Seiko 5 a good watch?

Watches from the Seiko 5 collection are considered reliable and robust. They offer outstanding quality at an extremely attractive price.

Is the Seiko 5 an automatic watch?

A characteristic of every Seiko 5 is that the watches are always equipped with an in-house automatic caliber.

Can you still buy vintage Seiko 5?

At Chrono24 you will find a wide selection of well-preserved vintage Seiko 5 models at attractive prices.