Sixty years ago, Seiko made Japan’s first diver’s watch. The SPB511J1 marks that anniversary with a 40mm recreation of the original 62MAS, built properly rather than just repackaged.
The dial takes its wave texture from Hokusai’s woodblock print. Underneath sits the 6R55 automatic with a 72-hour power reserve and 300 metres of water resistance, a significant upgrade on the original’s capability. The bracelet clasp adjusts in 2.5mm increments via side-button release, which is the kind of functional detail that earns respect.
The 6R55 movement beats at 21,600vph with a +25/−15 seconds per day accuracy spec, entirely acceptable for a tool watch at this price. The caseback is exhibition, showing the decorated rotor and the movement through sapphire crystal. Bracelet options include the stainless oyster-style link on the standard edition or an additional rubber strap for dive use. Lug width is 20mm, so aftermarket straps are easy to source.
For reference: the 62MAS original was Japan’s first ISO-certified diver’s watch, tested to 150 metres. The SPB511J1 doubles that, adds a century of movement refinement, and wraps it in a dial that actually references the heritage visually rather than just citing it in the press release. Limited to 6,000 pieces. At £1,270 it’s not cheap for a Seiko, but it’s coherent, honest, and built to last decades.
£1,270 — seikoboutique.co.uk