Author: Charlotte H

If you’re even remotely into dive watches, Seiko is a name that needs no introduction. The brand has been churning out legendary divers for decades, and the Prospex SNE589 is one of the latest in that lineage. It’s a solar-powered, no-nonsense tool watch with all the classic Seiko DNA.

But here’s the thing—classic Seiko DNA is exactly that: classic. And sometimes, it can feel like a repeat. The same bold case, the same familiar look. But if something works, why change it? 

The real question is, does this formula still work? Is it an aesthetic we’ve grown bored of, or is there more going on here than meets the eye?

Is the Seiko Prospex Divers SNE589 watch just another run-of-the-mill Seiko, or has the brand slipped in some magic that makes this one worth your time? These are exactly the kind of questions I’m going to be answering in today’s review. 

Seiko’s History With Dive Watches 

Seiko’s history with dive watches dates back to 1965, when they introduced the legendary 62MAS (Ref. 6217-8001). This was Japan’s first professional dive watch, featuring a 150 meter water resistant stainless steel case, a simple yet highly legible dial, and an automatic movement.

It set the foundation for Seiko’s future dive watches, combining functionality with rugged reliability. Today, the 62MAS remains a sought-after collector’s piece, and its design influences many modern Seiko divers. 

Following the 62MAS, Seiko continued innovating with the release of the 6105 in 1968. This watch, often nicknamed the “Willard” after its appearance in Apocalypse Now, was a favorite among soldiers during the Vietnam War due to its durability and affordability.

It featured a cushion-shaped case, 150 meter water resistance, and an upgraded movement with hacking seconds. 

Then came the 6309 in the late 1970s, another cult classic. With its round case, integrated crown guards, and 150 meter water resistance, it became a favorite among recreational divers and remains one of the most recognizable Seiko divers to this day.

It also marked the beginning of Seiko’s iconic “Turtle” design with its overly round shell-like case which continues to be a staple in their lineup. 

In 1975, Seiko took dive watch technology to new heights with the introduction of the “Tuna” (Ref. 6159-7010). This was Seiko’s answer to deep-sea diving needs, boasting a monocoque titanium case, a protective shroud, and an incredible 600 meters of water resistance.

The Tuna series has since evolved, with modern iterations reaching depths of 1000m while retaining the original’s iconic design.

Seiko didn’t stop there. The 1980s saw the release of the H558-5000, better known as the “Arnie” due to Arnold Schwarzenegger sporting it in movies like Predator and Commando.

This was the first analog-digital hybrid dive watch, featuring a built-in alarm, chronograph, and dual time functionality. It was a futuristic timepiece ahead of its time and remains a fan favorite even today.

 Seiko has continued to innovate, refining their dive watch designs while staying true to their roots and the Seiko Prospex SNE589 is a perfect example of that.

Sure, it still maintains all the necessary traits of a good diver’s watch but it’s also a watch in its own right. It’s not too oversized like Tuna nor is it futuristic like the Arnie. It’s almost the perfect balance of everything; modern but classic, simple but functional.

The Seiko Prospex was launched in 2022 as part of the Japanese watchmakers’ Prospex Solar Diver lineup. This innovative family brought a modern, eco-friendly twist to the brand’s dive watch heritage by introducing three solar-powered models: the black SNE589 (the model we’re reviewing today), the Pepsi-bezel SNE591 and the blue SNE593.

Each features a 42.8mm stainless steel case, a sleek flat dial, and the reliable V157 solar caliber. Unlike some of Seiko’s previous solar divers, they also ditch the date magnifier for a cleaner look, something that’s bound to divide opinions among fans. 

Case

The case of the Seiko Prospex SNE589 follows classic Seiko design principles, and if you’ve ever worn an SKX, you’ll feel right at home. Measuring 42.8mm in diameter, 10.7mm thick, and with a lug-to-lug of 49.2mm, it has that perfect balance of wrist presence and wearability.

It’s substantial enough to feel like a real tool watch but compact enough for everyday use. Seiko knows how to make a dive watch that hugs the wrist, and this one is no exception. 

The case shape sits somewhere between two of Seiko’s most famous designs. It’s not as rounded as the Turtle, nor as aggressively angular as the Samurai.

Instead, it strikes a middle ground with a barrel-shaped silhouette that combines soft edges with enough sharp corners to keep things modern. It’s a great mix of vintage inspiration and contemporary execution.

The finishing is typical of a Seiko diver in this price range with mostly brushed surfaces for that rugged, tool-watch look, with just enough polished accents to keep it from feeling dull. The brushed finishing extends across the lugs, while the polished case sides give a subtle contrast, catching the light nicely. 

Then there’s the bezel. It’s a proper unidirectional rotating bezel with a 60-minute diving scale, finished in black with crisp white printing.

It has a knurled edge for easy grip, even with diving gloves on, and a pearlescent pip at 12 o’clock for quick orientation in low-light conditions. The action is what you’d expect from a Seiko at this level, firm but smooth, with minimal back play. 

The crown is positioned at 3 o’clock and screws down tightly to ensure a full 200 meters of water resistance. It’s easy to grip, and Seiko adds a little detail that enthusiasts of striking design will appreciate, a red rubber gasket that not only adds to the water-tight seal but also ties in nicely with the red seconds hand on the dial.

It’s only a small hint of colour but one that makes a huge difference to the overall aesthetic of this Seiko Prospex, giving it a little more oomph compared to an all-black and steel model. 

The caseback of the Seiko SNE589 is solid and screw-down, as you’d expect, with Seiko’s classic tsunami logo proudly stamped in the center. No display caseback here, but honestly, for a serious dive watch with a 200 meter water resistance, I’d expect nothing less. 

Finally, we have the crystal and this is where Seiko throws in a pleasant surprise. Rather than opting for mineral crystal, which is what you’ll find on both diving watches at this price range, the Japanese watch brand has opted for sapphire crystal.

Even many of Seiko’s more affordable divers opt for Hardlex, so getting a proper scratch-resistant sapphire crystal at this price point is a nice touch. It’s flat, which keeps reflections to a minimum, and gives the dial a clean, no-nonsense look and added scratch resistance.

Dial 

The dial of the SNE589 is pure tool-watch functionality. There’s no frills, no unnecessary embellishments but just clear, purposeful design. The smooth black surface provides the perfect backdrop for the bold indices to ensure maximum contrast and legibility.

The hour markers are large and rounded, filled with generous amounts of Seiko’s famous LumiBrite for excellent low-light visibility. The 12 o’clock marker stands out with its iconic trapezoid shape, while the 6 and 9 o’clock positions feature thick baton markers to keep the symmetry balanced. 

At 3 o’clock, there’s no traditional marker. Instead, you get a date window with a white date disc and black text. This gives it a marker-like appearance but with some essential functionality.

One key detail to mention is that this date lacks any sort of cyclops magnifier which is a rare omission for a Seiko’s solar diver. This decision has its pros and cons: on the one hand, it keeps the dial cleaner, more modern and less cluttered, but on the other, it may make the date slightly harder to read for some users. 

The hands follow Seiko’s classic diver format. The hour hand is one large and overly bold arrow that is easy to distinguish at a glance, while the minute hand is a broad pipette shape for precise reading.

The seconds hand is thinner but finished in a striking red, adding a much-needed pop of color to the otherwise monochrome dial. It also serves a functional purpose making it easier to see that the watch is running at a quick glance. 

Other printed elements on the dial include the Seiko logo at 12 o’clock and the standard Prospex markings at 6 o’clock, indicating its solar-powered movement and 200m water resistance. It’s all kept minimal, ensuring nothing detracts from the dial’s primary function: pure, effortless readability.

Movement

As we’ve already mentioned, the Seiko Prospex SNE589 isn’t an overly complicated mechanical watch nor is it a classic quartz model.

Instead, it’s powered by Seiko’s V157 solar quartz movement. Sure, it might not be the kind of movement that gets collectors talking, but it’s an absolute workhorse in terms of reliability and convenience. 

Unlike mechanical movements that require regular winding or servicing, this solar-powered engine keeps ticking as long as it gets exposure to light. And with a fully charged power reserve of around 10 months, you could leave it in a drawer for weeks and still pick it up with the correct time and date.

During my time with the watch, I made a conscious effort to take it outdoors as much as possible. I mainly took it hiking and of course, swimming and for me, the charge level was never an issue, and despite tracking the time against an atomic clock, I didn’t notice any deviation over the weeks I wore it.

That’s the beauty of a well-executed quartz movement. You get effortless accuracy with none of the maintenance headaches.

The V157 also comes with a quick-start function, so even if you do somehow manage to drain the battery completely, just a few minutes in the sun will bring it back to life.

There’s also an overcharge prevention feature, ensuring that no matter how much time it spends in bright light, you won’t have to worry about damaging the movement.

Straps 

Unlike many Seiko divers that come on rubber straps, the Seiko Prospex SNE589 ships with a three-row stainless steel bracelet. While it’s nice to see a diver on a bracelet and it does help to bring a dressier look to the design, I have to be honest, it’s probably my least favorite part of the watch. 

The links themselves are decent enough, with a mix of brushed and polished finishes that match the case well, but the clasp is where things start to fall apart.

It’s a basic stamped clasp that feels flimsy, especially for a watch at this price point. It gets the job done, but it’s not exactly confidence-inspiring. 

But thankfully, it’s a bracelet that is more than easy to swap out, thanks to the standard 20mm lug width. If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably want to throw this on a rubber strap almost immediately.

A black silicone band would give it that classic dive-watch feel, but honestly, I think a red strap could be a fun way to tie in the red seconds hand and crown seal. NATO straps are another great option, especially if you want something lightweight and breathable. 

At the end of the day, the bracelet isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s not exactly a selling point either. Thankfully, it’s the one part of the watch that’s easy and relatively inexpensive to change, so if you love the Seiko SNE589 but aren’t sold on the bracelet either, there’s nothing stopping you from making it your own.

On-Wrist Experience 

Despite its 42.8mm case diameter, I found the Seiko Prospex SNE589 to wear incredibly well. Thanks to its relatively slim 10.7mm thickness – something that’s not a common sight in a 200 meter water resistant dive watch – and a well-balanced lug-to-lug measurement of 49.2mm, it sits comfortably without feeling bulky.

The case shape plays a big role here too with the barrel design with soft edges hugging the wrist nicely, making it feel more compact than the numbers might suggest. 

If you have a 7-inch wrist or larger, you’ll have no problem pulling this off, but even those with a 6.5-inch wrist should find it wearable.

That said, if your wrist is on the smaller side, around 6 inches or below, you might want to check out some of Seiko’s mid-size Prospex divers in the 38mm range. Finding smaller dive watches isn’t always easy, but the Prospex collection offers some great options. 

Price & Availability 

The Seiko Prospex SNE589 retails for $525 brand new, which is pretty reasonable considering its solar movement, sapphire crystal, and full ISO-certified dive watch credentials.

Since it’s been out for a couple of years now, you can also find pre-owned examples on the second-hand market, typically ranging between $400 and $450, depending on condition and whether they come with the full set of box and papers. 

Unlike some of Seiko’s more exclusive releases, the SNE589 isn’t a limited edition and instead a permanent part of the Prospex lineup. That means availability shouldn’t be an issue and there’s no immediate rush to make a purchase if you’re still unsure. 

If you’re buying new, it’s always best to go through an authorized Seiko retailer like Exquisite Timepieces. That way, you can be sure you’re getting a genuine Seiko, complete with the official box, paperwork, and manufacturer’s warranty.

Conclusion 

So, is the Seiko Prospex SNE589 just another Seiko diver, or does it bring something fresh to the table? The answer is a bit of both.

Yes, it follows the tried-and-true Seiko dive watch formula because it’s ultimately a no-nonsense tool watch with a classic black dial, a well-sized stainless steel case, and rock-solid water resistance. But at the same time, it introduces some meaningful upgrades that make it stand out. 

The sapphire crystal is a major plus, offering far better scratch resistance than Seiko’s usual Hardlex. The solar-powered V157 movement is another key addition, delivering hassle-free, low-maintenance accuracy with months of power reserve.

It’s the kind of movement that makes this watch an ideal “grab-and-go” piece because you can just pick it up, throw it on, and never worry about winding or battery replacements. 

While the bracelet leaves something to be desired, that’s a minor gripe when you consider how easy and affordable it is to swap out.

And with a comfortable, well-sized case that wears well on most wrists, this is a dive watch that can handle anything. So if you were to ask me what I’d recommend if you wanted a durable, water-resistant, worry-free diver that doesn’t break the bank, I’d most likely answer with the Seiko Prospex SNE589.

The Seiko Turtle is one of the most recognizable dive watches in the world. It has a storied history, a distinctive design, and a reputation for being both durable and reliable.

So no, the Seiko Turtle isn’t some rare breed of turtle—if that’s what you’re looking for, you might want to check out the National Geographic website instead.

No, this is the nickname given to one of Seiko’s most iconic dive watches, and it’s called the Turtle because of its distinct, cushion-shaped case that resembles a turtle’s shell. 

Seiko first introduced the Turtle back in the 1970s with the legendary 6306 and 6309 models, and since then, the watch has seen multiple reissues, each staying true to its roots while incorporating subtle but necessary modern improvements.

Today, the Seiko Turtle lineup includes a variety of models, all sporting the signature case shape, bold dials with plenty of lume, impressive water resistance, and reliable in-house automatic movements.

While most of these variations have obvious differences, whether it’s case size, dial colors, bezel inserts, or added complications, there are two models that look almost identical: the Seiko Turtle SRP777 and the Seiko Turtle SRPE93. 

If you’re not super familiar with these two watches, you’d be forgiven for struggling to spot any differences between them at all.

Seriously, if you can pick them apart in just a few seconds, you deserve some serious brownie points. But yes, there are subtle differences, and as any watch collector will tell you, even the smallest differences in a watch can have a big impact, whether it’s on how a watch wears, how it looks, or just how it feels on the wrist. 

So today, we’re putting the Seiko Turtle SRP777 and SRPE93 head-to-head, breaking down every little detail, so you’ll know exactly which one is the better choice for you.

The Seiko Turtle SRP777

Starting with the older of the two, the Seiko Prospex Turtle SRP777 is a modern reissue of the legendary Seiko 6309, a famous dive watch that the Japanese watchmaker first launched during the late 1970s.

This modern-day SRP777 reference however arrived in early 2016 but still retained many of the signature Turtle features including the cushion-shaped case, bold dial design, and robust diving capabilities that made its predecessor such a hit. 

At first glance, the SRP777 appears nearly identical to its vintage inspiration, measuring to 44.3mm in diameter with a lug-to-lug of 47.25mm. The stainless steel case features a brushed finish on the top and polished sides, maintaining the classic Seiko diver aesthetic.

Again, it’s the unusual shape of the case that gives the Turtle its nickname with a rounded, ergonomic, and undeniably comfortable profile. Despite its large dimensions, the watch wears smaller than expected due to its short lugs, making it surprisingly wearable on a variety of wrist sizes. 

One of the standout features of the SRP777 is its day-date window. Unlike more modern Seiko divers like the SRPE93, the SRP777 retains a beveled day-date window as a direct homage to the original 6309.

This small yet significant detail enhances the vintage appeal of the watch and is one of the main components that sets it apart from its younger sibling. For collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the little nuances that make a watch special, this beveling adds a layer of depth and nostalgia. 

The dial is a rich matte black, offering excellent legibility in various lighting conditions. Large, well-defined hour markers are generously coated with Seiko’s proprietary LumiBrite, ensuring that the watch remains highly readable even in low-light environments.

The hands follow a classic Seiko diver design, with a broad arrow-style minute hand and a sword-shaped hour hand, making it easy to distinguish the time at a glance. The seconds hand features a lumed lollipop tip, another nod to traditional Seiko diver aesthetics. 

The bezel is a unidirectional 120-click mechanism with a fully indexed aluminum insert. The action is smooth with firm, precise clicks, making it a joy to operate. Seiko’s bezels are known for their reliability, and the Seiko Turtle SRP777 is no exception, providing an essential tool for divers to monitor elapsed dive times. 

The case back of the SRP777 is another area where Seiko has paid tribute to its past and offers another slight deviation from the SRPE93. The SRP777 features the iconic tsunami wave motif, deeply engraved and prominently displayed, alongside lettering that reads “Air Diver’s 200m”. 

Inside the watch beats Seiko’s in-house 4R36 automatic movement, a workhorse caliber that offers hacking and hand-winding. It also operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides a respectable 41-hour power reserve.

It’s a reliable and robust movement, designed for longevity and ease of maintenance. It’s so reliable that Seiko still uses it in many of the dive watches today. Completing this model is a 22mm black silicone strap that is soft, flexible, and comfortable straight out of the box.

The Seiko Turtle SRPE93

Arriving a little later in 2021, and a watch still in production now, the Seiko Prospex SRPE93, is unsurprisingly another modern take on the Seiko Turtle design.

Much like its predecessors, this model stays true to the core identity of the Seiko Turtle, offering a cushion-shaped case, robust dive watch capabilities, and a timeless aesthetic. 

At 45mm in diameter with a thickness of 13.42mm, the Turtle SRPE93 is slightly larger than the SRP777 but still retains an ergonomic and well-balanced profile on the wrist.

Thanks to its rounded case and relatively short lug-to-lug length, the watch again wears smaller than its dimensions might suggest, making it comfortable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The case is engineered from classic stainless steel and features a brushed finish on the top with polished sides. 

The dial of the Seiko Prospex Turtle SRPE93 is also deep matte black, ensuring excellent contrast and legibility. At the centre are the same large and highly visible hour markers coated with Seiko’s LumiBrite. But peeking out just to the right of the dial is one of the subtle but notable differences between this model and the Turtle SRP777. 

Here you can see the addition of a lume block at the 3 o’clock marker. This lume pip was added to retain the ISO certification, as it is part of the new requirement.

In addition, to accommodate this change, the Seiko Turtle SRPE93 does not have the beveling on the day/date window that was present on the SRP777.

Another update lies in the case back. While it still features the iconic tsunami wave motif, the text has been updated to again reflect the new ISO diving specifications. Instead of the previous “Air Diver’s 200m” marking found on the SRP777, the case back of the Turtle SRPE93 now reads “Diver’s Watch 200m.”

This subtle change may go unnoticed by casual observers, but for Seiko enthusiasts, it represents an important update that aligns with modern dive watch standards. 

Other than that, the SRPE93 retains all the same spec as its older sibling. It has the same unidirectional rotating black aluminium bezel, Seiko’s reliable in-house 4R36 automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve and a comfortable black silicone strap, secured with a pin buckle.

Seiko SRP777 vs SRPE93 – How to Choose 

The Case Size 

While both watches share the signature Seiko Turtle design, the SRPE93 comes in slightly larger at 45mm compared to the SRP777’s 44.3mm diameter.

The difference might seem minimal on paper, but on the wrist, even a fraction of a millimeter can impact the overall feel. The SRP777’s more compact dimensions make it a great option for those who prefer a slightly more manageable fit without sacrificing the iconic cushion-shaped case.

On the other hand, if you like the presence of a slightly larger case, the SRPE93 will give you that extra bit of wrist real estate while maintaining excellent wearability thanks to the short lug-to-lug distance. 

The 3 o’clock Lume 

One of the most notable updates in the Seiko Prospex Turtle SRPE93 is the addition of a lume pip at the 3 o’clock marker. This was introduced to meet the latest ISO dive watch standards to ensure enhanced visibility in low-light conditions.

However, this adjustment led to the removal of the beveling around the day/date window, which remains intact on the SRP777. If you appreciate the vintage-inspired detail and added depth that the beveling provides, the SRP777 might be the more appealing option.

However, if you prioritize lume and low light legibility, then the SRPE93’s additional Lumibrite pip will no doubt serve you better. 

The Case Back Decoration 

Both watches feature the classic Seiko tsunami wave motif on the case back, a signature design element in the Prospex series. However, the text has been updated in the SRPE93 to reflect modern ISO certification requirements. The SRP777’s case back reads “Air Diver’s 200m,” while the SRPE93 now simply states “Diver’s Watch 200m.”

While this change does not impact performance, some collectors might prefer the original wording as a nod to Seiko’s long-standing dive watch heritage. 

Which One Is Right for You? 

Choosing between the Seiko Prospex Turtle SRP777 and SRPE93 ultimately depends on what you prioritize in a dive watch.

If you appreciate subtle vintage aesthetics and small nostalgic details like the beveled day/date window and original case back text, and prefer a slightly more compact fit, the SRP777 is a fantastic choice.

However, if you’re looking for a more modernized version with updated ISO compliance, superior lume at the 3 o’clock position, and don’t mind the lack of beveling, then the SRPE93 is the way to go.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, choosing between the Seiko Prospex Turtle SRP777 and the SRPE93 comes down to personal preference. If I had to pick, I’d go for the Seiko SRPE93 simply because I believe you can never have too much lume on a dive watch.

The additional lume at the 3 o’clock marker ensures even better visibility in low-light conditions which is a key factor for me. 

That said, I completely understand why many collectors are drawn to the Turtle SRP777. It carries a piece of Seiko’s history with its vintage-inspired design elements, including the beveled day-date window, which adds a nostalgic charm. For those who appreciate subtle nods to classic models, the SRP777 is an appealing option. 

Practicality is another consideration. The SRPE93 is still in production and can be ordered easily, typically retailing for around $495. It offers a lot of watch for an affordable price, making it a solid choice for those who want a brand-new, readily available timepiece.

On the other hand, the SRP777 has been discontinued, meaning you’ll need to explore the second-hand market for this one. While pre-owned models are generally more affordable, averaging around $400, they may be harder to find in good condition. 

Ultimately, these two watches are incredibly similar in both aesthetics and specifications. To the untrained eye, it would take a keen collector to spot the differences when one is on your wrist.

But in the end, what matters most is what you value in a watch, whether it’s modern practicality or vintage charm. No matter which you choose, both are excellent examples of Seiko’s dive watch prowess, proving that the Turtle remains a true icon in the world of horology.