The People's Dive Watches: How Affordable Seikos Democratized Underwater Timekeeping - Part One

Those who have researched the rich history of Seiko diving watches have surely noticed that one of the most frequently mentioned phrases is 'the world's first.' It's followed by a myriad of essential features, such as different materials, mechanisms, depth of operation, or accuracy under pressure, to name just a few. All to be praised and rightfully mentioned in the overwhelming record of Seiko's groundbreaking achievements in pioneering the history of watchmaking.

However, one prospect that somehow remains out of the spotlight more than it deserves is how Seiko democratized underwater timekeeping. The area that definitely deserves more focus is Seiko's continuous success in producing affordable divers available to everyone. Here's a review of the continuous steps Seiko took to shape the brand's history and, at the same time, make the features of ultimate diving watches available to diving enthusiasts, laymen and professionals alike.

Seiko 150 Diver at the Tokyo 1964 Summer Olympics

The Olympics are a massive event in the history of every country, a chance for some groundbreaking innovations and overall progress. Seiko, having been chosen as an official timer of the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, approached the task seriously, just as it had always done. One of the groundbreaking innovations they premiered for this occasion was Japan's first diver, the Seiko 150 Diver. After successfully overcoming every challenge the Olympics laid before it, this diver became part of the gear used in the 8th Japanese Antarctic survey expedition in 1966.

89ST Models - If you're fortunate to visit Tokyo's Seiko Museum, you can see various sports timers on display, including many from the 1964 Olympics.

Having proven its durability and reliability in those two highly demanding environments, it became a highly sought-after item from the Seiko catalog. Its simple and iconic looks, small size, and timeless design, along with a unique background, have kept the "1965 Diver" among the most desirable Seiko divers to this day. Equally important, it's a cornerstone for all upcoming revolutionary divers ' watches Seiko produced, particularly when it comes to the impact they have among their everyday users and diving aficionados.

Seiko 6105, the early model, and the infamous Captain Willard

Sticking to the original formula with regular improvements is often the key to success. Add being in the right place at the right time, and glory awaits. The Seiko 6105, with its distinctive cushion-shaped, asymmetrical case and proven reliability under duress, earned it legendary status among army personnel engaged in battles, as well as those who returned home from the battles.

Timeless design of Seiko Vintage 6105-8110 Automatic 150m Diver Watch fits contemporary styling perfectly when paired with a Quick Release FKM26 Red FKM Rubber Watch Strap

To earn an infamous status, it required recognition and demand among non-military personnel, which occurred after Apocalypse Now took the theaters by storm in 1979. This second version of the Seiko 6105 was nicknamed "Captain Willard," after a character played by Martin Sheen in Coppola's film about the Vietnam War. It became one of the most popular Seiko Watches, once again, of supreme quality and welcoming affordability. This model was reissued in 2019 and 2020, this time as part of the Seiko Prospex family.

Turtle time, Seiko 6306 and 6309 series

A discussion about a working man's dive watches cannot go without Seiko Turtle being the topic. If there's a choice to be made on which Seiko dive is favored by several generations of recreational divers and average person fans of diving watches, that would sure be one from the Turtle family. Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the first Seiko Turtle, and the key to its longevity lies in several key features.

The aesthetic groundwork for its design was set by Captain Willard, namely the 4 O'clock crown position and cushion shape. The Turtle series was built upon it by making the cushion-shaped case more symmetrical and opting for a more traditional screw down crown. The nickname derives from the case resembling a turtle shape when looked at from above.

The first Seiko Turtle, the 6306, featured a 150m water resistance, more than sufficient for a recreational scuba diver and water-related activities a regular person may perform every day. The stainless steel case and hardflex crystal glass proved to be highly durable in both underwater and regular activities. 6306 Turtle was intended for the Japanese market and was in production until 1981.

Subtle nuances in the design of almost twin Seiko diver brothers are no obstacle in pairing them with matching stainless steel straps for top-notch masculine appeal. Top: Vintage Seiko 6306 7001 paired with a 22mm Retro Shaver Blade 316L Stainless Steel Watch Band Bottom: Vintage Seiko Divers Turtle 6309-7040 with a 22mm Super-O Boyer Watch Band

Soon after the 6306 hit the market, Seiko introduced the 6309 Turtle intended for the international market. It featured a slightly different movement, with several jewels fewer, and was produced until 1988. It came out in noticeably larger quantities than 6306, building on its growing popularity and surpassing it globally, all thanks to their unique looks, reliability, and affordable price. Loved by both regular people and pop stars, present in media, movies, and on tours at the time, Seiko Turtle earned a legendary status that is still radiating even today, 50 years after its premiere.

Written by S.K., images by Toni and others as noted

Continue Reading: Part 2