This year, 2020 is so meaningful and special to Seiko and Grand Seiko. Earlier this year, we have seen the stunningly gorgeous Seiko Trilogy commemorative set: SLA037, SLA039, SLA041 that were made to celebrate the Seiko Diver’s 55th Anniversary. In addition, we also have The Beauty of Dawn SBGR321, and four other pieces of lovely blue dial limited edition Grand Seiko SBGH281, STGK015, SBGP007 and SBGP015 to celebrate the 60th Anniversary. What do you see in common? They all are carrying a blue watch dial, though the color tone is not exactly the same.
In November 2020, Seiko will launch two more diver models to celebrate the Seiko Diver 55th Anniversary - SBDX039 and SBDC123. SBDX039 is another 62MAS re-creation while SBDC123 is a re-interpretation of modern 6105 Diver. Both SBDX039 and SBDC123 are limited editions that designed with a marine blue dial, yet they are more of a sapphire-like blue that we have rarely seen before! The marine blue color concept is to express the beautiful scenery of the Antarctic Ocean with rough floating icebergs.
SBDX039 (SLA043J1)
SBDC123 (SPB183J1)
SBDX039 is like all other 62MAS re-creations, it uses Seiko's original pyramid-shaped pattern reinforced black silicone strap. Keeping the same appearance of a 1965 mechanical diver 62MAS, but upgraded the exterior of the SBDX039 to the world’s highest corrosion resistance stainless steel - “Ever-Brilliant Steel”. Same as the 55th Anniversary Trio, Seiko claims that it is stronger than the steel used on some of the most high-end luxury watches in the modern era; Unlike traditional stainless steel made Seiko that might have a greyish reflection, the SBDX039 looks much more silvery in this new material. SBDX039 uses a reliable caliber 8L35 manufactured by its Shizukuishi Luxury Watch Studio. The delicate hairline finish found on the brilliant steel case exterior strongly demonstrated the Japanese watchmaking quality craftsmanship. 
SBDX039 is limited to 1700 pieces; where the serial number of each is engraved on the screw-back case. Similar to the other 55th Anniversary models, SBDX039 came with a special box that includes an optional band made of marine blue reinforced silicone with a unique pyramidal pattern. The whole package is luxurious yet subtle.
While the SBDX039 is a tribute to the 1965 Diver, the SBDC123 is a 1970 Diver’s Modern re-interpretation salute. Similar to the SBDX039, SBDC123 also uses the Antarctic Sea color blue dial. SBDC123 has inherited the elegant form exterior of the original model but slightly added to 42.7mm diameter; the slight differences touched up the SBDC123 and gave it an innovative modern taste. Although SBDC123 did not have an Ever-Brilliant Steel case, it uses the Dia-Shield finish made by Seiko which is highly reputable.
Under the hood, the SBDC123 is upgraded with the latest Seiko movement 6R35, which is commonly used for the latest top-of-the-line Prospex series. 6R35 is a drive mechanism equipped with a self-winding movement that achieves a power reserve of approx. 70 hours, which is 40% longer than its precedent 6R15.
Last but not least, other than the original stainless steel bracelet, SBDC123 came with an optional reinforced ‘2020 marine blue’ silicone band. SBDC123 is limited to 5500 pieces.
Overall, both SBDX039 and SBDC123 are rare and limited; the blue color dial is pretty distinct, it is sure that it will look good on daily casual wear as well as dressed in formal suits. Depending on the wrist size of each person, the more affordable turtle-shaped SBDC123 might be a bit difficult for some to carry. While the marine blue dial SBDX039 is actually slimmer and smaller in size (39.9 mm in diameter) than the other 62MAS remakes, it should look amazing on all skin tones or wrist sizes.
Watch Outz is so looking forward to seeing these two models, we will announce once we can confirm the arrival date. For those who do not wish to wait, please do not hesitate to contact us directly for pre-ordering it! Stay tuned!
cs@watchoutz.com