Seiko 5 Sports SKX Redux "7002" automatic orange dial rubber strap 42,5 mm

Heritage & evolution of an icon

Before the legendary SKX of the 1990s, there was the Seiko 7002. Produced between 1988 and 1996, this robust diver marked a generation with its functional design and strongly luminescent rectangular indexes. It was later replaced by the SKX, which became one of the most iconic and accessible automatic sports watches on the market.

In 2019, Seiko revived the SKX spirit within the 5 Sports collection, retaining the emblematic asymmetrical case architecture with a crown positioned at 4 o’clock. In 2025, the brand goes even further with a new aesthetic evolution: a bezel fitted with a glossy Hardlex glass insert, a slightly wider dial opening and a redesigned index layout directly inspired by the 7002’s visual codes.

This new-generation SKX Series does not change the model’s philosophy — a robust, versatile and accessible automatic watch — but subtly refines its lines, offering a more contemporary and more elevated interpretation of a cult archival design.

A modernized SKX architecture

The new Seiko 5 Sports SKX Series retains the architecture that made the model successful: a 42.5 mm stainless steel case, a compact 46 mm lug-to-lug length and a thickness of 13.9 mm, ensuring a strong wrist presence while remaining comfortable to wear.

The emblematic asymmetrical silhouette, directly inherited from the SKX, integrates a crown positioned at 4 o’clock to enhance ergonomics and preserve the case’s flowing lines. Water-resistant to 100 meters, the watch follows a versatile sports logic, suitable for everyday use as well as light water activities.

The most notable evolution lies in the unidirectional bezel. Now equipped with a glossy Hardlex glass insert, it offers greater visual depth and a more contemporary play of light. The 60-minute scale is printed beneath the glass, creating a sharper and more refined overall effect.

The dial features a new rectangular index design inspired by the Seiko 7002, with a reinforced double marker at 12 o’clock for enhanced legibility. The hands have been redesigned in respect of the original model while benefiting from more precise and refined finishing. The entire display is treated with LumiBrite to ensure optimal readability in low-light conditions.

SRPL89: vintage diver spirit in vibrant orange

The Seiko 5 Sports SRPL89 is undoubtedly the most charismatic variation of this new SKX generation. Its vivid orange dial draws directly from the aesthetic of late-1980s Seiko divers, a time when bold colors became a powerful visual signature.

Paired with a black bezel featuring a glossy glass insert, the orange dial gains intensity and depth. The applied rectangular indexes and redesigned hands — subtly contrasted here — reinforce the model’s retro character while benefiting from more refined and contemporary finishing.

Fitted with a black silicone strap, the SRPL89 fully embraces its sporty identity. Flexible and comfortable, the strap enhances its urban diver positioning, ready to accompany summer seasons as well as more assertive looks.

A true statement piece, the SRPL89 is aimed at enthusiasts who appreciate bold sports watches with a confident style. It does not seek discretion; it celebrates Seiko heritage with energy and personality.

The 4R36 calibre: Seiko’s signature mechanical reliability

At the heart of this new Seiko 5 Sports SKX Series beats the in-house 4R36 calibre, an automatic movement developed and assembled internally by Seiko.

Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz), it features 24 jewels and delivers a power reserve of approximately 41 hours — perfectly suited for daily wear. Robust and proven, it has long been Seiko’s benchmark entry-level mechanical movement.

The 4R36 offers:

• Automatic winding via rotor
• Manual winding capability
• Stop-seconds (hacking) function for precise time-setting
• Day-date display at 3 o’clock

Seiko states a theoretical accuracy range of +45 to -35 seconds per day, consistent with its accessible and pragmatic positioning.

Visible through the transparent caseback, the movement does not aim for decorative extravagance; instead, it prioritizes reliability, durability and ease of maintenance. A straightforward and efficient mechanism designed to stand the test of time.

The Seiko 5 spirit: five pillars since 1963

Since its launch in 1963 with the Sportimatic 5, the Seiko 5 collection has been guided by a simple philosophy: to offer a reliable, robust and accessible automatic watch without compromising on essentials.

The number “5” refers to the five defining characteristics present in every model of the line — all fully embodied in this new SKX Series generation:

1. An in-house automatic movement
2. A day-date display, the collection’s historic signature
3. Water resistance suited to active daily wear
4. A recessed crown at 4 o’clock for enhanced comfort and protection
5. A durable case and bracelet built for everyday longevity

With this 2025 evolution, Seiko once again demonstrates its ability to evolve its icons without betraying their DNA: a sporty, versatile and mechanically accessible watch, faithful to the original Seiko 5 spirit.