Seiko recently released his highly sought after Samurai line starting with SRPB09 Blue Lagoon Limited Edition and then regular SRPB49K1, SRPB51K1, SRPB53K1 and SRPB55K1 versions. Although it lost some design cues from the original release Samurai is still an attractive diver with its different design.
Technical Specifications:
- 316L Stainless steel Case
- Seiko 4r35 Automatic Movement with Hacking and Handwinding
- Textured Black
- Lumibrite indices and hands
- Hardlex Crystal
- ISO standard 200m
- Case Dimensions: 43.8 x 45mm
- Case Thickness: 12.8mm
- Lug Width: 22mm
- Crown: Knurled Screw down
- MRSP $525
Watch comes in a standard Seiko box and packaging. Packaging may differ based on from what source or edition you are buying. Samurai has a very different angular design it separates them from rest of the Seiko line. I actually love Seiko because they release very different daring case shapes. What would we watch enthusiast do without Ufo’s Tuna’s right?. In terms of build quality it is a bit better that the skx007 and feel more premium. Angular design makes the watch large and chunky however it wears very well and surprisingly thin. Thanks to its case shape you can either wear it for actual diving or for a serious meeting.
As you can see it is similar to skx007 size. But i think it is more comfortable to wear. I feel similar for almost all Seiko models that their designers intentionally add some intentionally off. For the Samurai off looking part is its Monster hands. I mean hand set is not totally out of place but I think it does not match overall elegant design. Bu I must say handset looks excellent on only the Orange face model. I wish Seiko kept the original handset. Bezel action is not very crisp or feel high quality as all Seiko divers. Also alignment of the insert not good on mine which also a Seiko signature move.
Samurai easily dwarfs the skx007 but do not be afraid it wears small and look very balanced compared to skx007. Bracelet has similar design cues to elusive SBBN015 bracelet and fits the watch perfectly. I think watch looks best on bracelet. Unfortunately bracelet has Seikos useless divers extension. I think it ruins the comfort and makes impossible to size the bracelet for balanced fit. Still the bracelet rocks in terms of looks.
Clasp is classic Seiko clasp with double push button release. It is good enough and does the job without too much bulk.
Conclusion:
Overall it is another successful reissue from Seiko. Size look a little big but do not afraid because it wears small thanks to angular lugs. Handset is out of place but it is and easy fix since Seiko parts can be purchased and replaces easily. I can say it is cheap if you buy MRSP but I can say you can have very good deals on multiple sources.
