In essence, they are time and date watches inspired by a chronograph model that didn't even have a date function (like I said, a unique take). There are two distinct models within this series: A simple time and date, and a skeletonized version with a 24-hour subdial.
The Style 60' features, what the brand is calling, earth-tone dial variations as well a vintage-effect crystal and bezel design. Just like it did with new Alpinist models from earlier this year, Seiko has created a really compelling new set of everyday watches seemingly out of nowhere.
The new Style 60's series takes inspiration from the Seiko Crown Chronograph from 1964 – both Seiko and Japan's first chronograph wristwatch. Seiko could have easily replicated that watch and released it – but it chose to go another route.
The original Seiko Crown Chronograph from 1964.
The design here is akin to the best kind of cover song. It takes the general vibe behind the original, but creates something different, and altogether more interesting. You're never going to copy the original and make a better song – so best to iterate on it creatively.
At 40.8mm in diameter, the case sizing is very good – especially from Seiko who tends to lean toward larger cases. The overall profile of the case is interesting with its downward-angled lugs, which are no doubt meant to hug the wrist when worn. The watch also features lug holes (hurray) which make strap changes a breeze.
In lieu of a standard smooth bezel, Seiko has opted for a fixed (likely aluminum or steel) bezel with 60 second (or minute) graduations. The bezel is thin – and is somewhat reminiscent of early Omega Seamaster 300s – but it adds a casual sportiness to a package that would otherwise look entirely dressy.
Powering the time and date models is the Seiko in-house caliber 4R35, while the skeletonized variants feature the 4R39 (with the added 24-hour indicator). Both movements are common in Seiko watches at this price point, and get the job done from a time-telling standpoint.
The overall dial design is quite simple – and very on-brand for its mid-century inspiration. The hour markers are applied and accompanied by painted rectangles just beneath them. The markers and hands are treated with Seiko's Lumibrite compound and – depending on the dial variant – the lume is treated to some faux-aging.
Of all the dial variants (and there are many … including a gold PVD case watch and – of all things – a green variant), the most compelling is the ivory dial with gilt accents (the SRPG03). There's just something about it that jumps right out of the press images and screams versatile watch.
Seiko's Presage line has always been something of a misunderstood line – certainly on the dressier end of Seiko's affordable offering. I think these new releases open the doors for so many new design options for future Presage pieces. I can certainly say that I look forward to checking these ones out in person soon.
Brand: Seiko
Model: Presage Style 60's
Reference Number:SRPG03, SRPG05,SRPG07, SSA423, SSA425
Diameter: 40.8mm
Thickness: 12.0mm(SRPG) and 12.8mm(SSA)
Case Material: Stainless steel or gold PVD coated stainless steel
Dial Color: Ivory, Black, Blue, Green
Indexes: Applied markers
Lume: Yes
Water Resistance: 50m
Strap/Bracelet: Bracelet or Nylon NATO style strap
The Movement
Caliber: 4R35 (SRPG) and 4R39 (SSA)
Functions: Hours minutes, seconds date (SRPG) and Hours, minutes, seconds, date, 24 hour indicator (SSA)
Thickness: 5.32mm
Power Reserve: 41 hours
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 3Hz
