The modern and updated Seiko 5 Sports line debuted in 2019 with no shortage of variety —it contained 27 variations, to be precise. Expanded upon with more special editions, the collection continues to grow: It’s most recently been joined by two new unique-looking versions that have appeared out of nowhere for sale on Amazon and feature unusual textures and touches that take the line’s DNA in a new direction.
What both watches have in common is a break from the collection’s standard bezel design, which has been rendered here in relief. The reference SRPE80 has a steel case with a coating made to mimic the look of patinated bronze. The aged effect is particularly noticeable on the bezel, which replaces the usual dive timer numerals with markers and dots. The black dial has an unusual texture as well, reminiscent of higher-end models from Seiko and Grand Seiko.
SeikoSeiko 5 Sports SRPE80
The SRPE71, on the other hand, has a white bezel and silver sunburst dial. Here, it’s the font of the numerals on the bezel which stand out, as well as its three-dimensional rendering. Also produced in relief, they seem reminiscent of the gothic font used, for example, in the Grand Seiko logo, with a polished finish against a deeply textured background.
Both watches share the collection’s 42.5mm case with 100m of water resistance and the Seiko 4R36 automatic movement visible through the case back. The SRPE80 comes on a brown leather strap for a price of $395, and the SRPE71 comes on a steel bracelet for $390+.
Seiko