Prospex Automatic Diver Scuba Coastline Champagne Ref. SBDC201

The 1960s is widely known as the golden era for watches, especially for dive watches. As the technology for diving equipment advances, the demand for watches with increased diving capabilities becomes increasingly crucial. As one of the pioneers of dive watches, Seiko holds a rich history in developing reliable and robust timekeeping instruments for the most serious professional divers. Seiko gained enormous respect from divers all around the world, setting a global standard with their advanced horological innovations.
 
Short for "Professional Specification", Prospex timepieces are built with the highest standards for professionals. Seiko presents the 2017 reissues of its coveted Ref. 6217-8001, also known as the 62MAS launched back in 1965: the limited-edition Ref. SLA017 as well as the Seiko Prospex Diver SBDC051 and SBDC053. With enhanced functionality, these watches take after the 1965 62MAS design. This latest Seiko series with a brand-new case takes elements from resort scene, from the beautiful ocean waves down to the setting skyline.

Seiko Prospex Automatic Diver Scuba Coastline Champagne Ref. SBDC201

This dive watch is a well-received favourite in the Seiko community. The Seiko Prospex Automatic Diver Scuba Coastline Ref. SBDC201 has a diameter of 41.3mm, lug to lug length of only 48.2mm, a lug width of 20mm and an incredible thinness of 12.5mm. A familiar sizing and dimension to most, this watch fits comfortably on any wrist size without feeling too bulky or overwhelming.
 
The Prospex has a stainless-steel case and a steel bracelet both treated with Seiko's Dia-Shield coatings that ensure scratch-protection and greater corrosion resistance. Additionally, the unidirectional bezel of this watch has minimal free play in the other direction in its smooth rotations. Admire the mixture of satin brush and Seiko high polishing on the sides of the entire timepiece and the Zaratsu polished line on its case side that adds a modern twist to this vintage diver. Its dainty case allows for a more intricate and refined finishing as well. One cannot overstate the details Seiko put in on their watches, even down to an additional vertically brushed chamfer at the lugs for more definition.

Seiko's Caliber 6R55 automatic

In true Japan spirit, the mixed finishing extends to the crown and screw-down case back which allows for a 300m water resistance, deeming this timepiece your trusty diving partner. Ensuring protection, crown guards accompanies the watch, which plays very well into the overall dimension and balance. Branded with the signature tsunami emblem that sets Seiko dive watches apart from others, the case of the Seiko Prospex Automatic Diver Scuba Coastline Ref. SBDC201 is fixed with lug holes on its sides that allow for easy strap changes. The new case is upgraded with a flat sapphire crystal instead of the usual Hardlex mineral crystal.
 
Sporting a horizontal wave textured champagne dial and a contrasting black bezel, the Prospex elevates it's design with symmetrical applied markers. The inspiration takes shape from a typical ocean skyline one would experience at a resort hours before the sunset. The golden hue of cloud diffused sunlight and the horizontal lines reflecting the ocean waves and horizon. Much light the clouds, the white applied indices and matching handset are filled with LumiBright, ensuring readability in all lighting. Finishing it off with Seiko at the 12, Prospex logo at the 6 and date window at the 4.30 position, this watch is incredible well-spaced, providing an aesthetic and functional timepiece.

Seiko's LumiBrite at its best

Always seeking to improve, Seiko unveils its latest engine, the 6R55 caliber, an upgrade from the workhorse 6R15 and 2019's 6R35. This movement is totally new in 2023, making this timepiece the first few to feature Seiko's new automatic caliber. Maintaining operation at 21,600 BPH (3 Hertz) with hacking and hand winding capabilities, this engine has 24 jewels and a longer power reserve of 72 hours (3 days), a whopping 22 hours more than the 7R and 6S.
 
Compared to the regular flat bracelet design, the metal links on this multi-finished steel bracelet grace this watch with an angular design and a more solid feel. Word has it that this bracelet is a cut above the other Prospex collection such as Sumo and Shogun.
 
Overall, the Seiko Prospex Automatic Diver Scuba Coastline Ref. SBDC201 is a much-anticipated addition to the Prospex collection. It is a well fabricated Seiko diver that has a slim and gently tapered profile with better specs and an upgraded movement. This is testament to Seiko's high standards and customer-centric ethos as this esteemed watchmaker goes the extra mile to study its market by observing what appeals to its audience. And the result is Seiko Prospex Automatic Diver Scuba Coastline Ref. SBDC201, an elegant timepiece carrying years of history that will find its way into the collections of many dive watch enthusiasts.

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