Seiko’s Prospex line of tough timepieces just goes to show you don’t have to spend huge money to get a great automatic watch. Their new Black Series takes on a decided dark look for some of the best affordable dive watches on earth. Each version gets a bluish-black hard case coating, matte black dials, and orange or red highlights. The most exclusive version is the Marinemaster Black Series with its ceramic bezel, 50-hour power reserve, and a red second hand that disappears in low light. Only 600 of these will be made. Case sizes aren’t overly huge, ranging from 44.3mm to 45mm, and each one gets a reliable Seiko automatic movement. Expect each of them to perform well under pressure and with proper maintenance and care, a lifetime of use. Each one is a limited-production watch, so make sure you grab one when they bow in February and March of this year.
More Watches
This Los Angeles-Based Microbrand Makes the Best Tool Watch Under $1,000
The $800 Nodus Sector Deep Damascus combines 500-meter dive credentials with a one-of-a-kind Damascus steel bezel.
What It’s Like to Wear an $85,000 Watch
I spent some wrist time with the Ulysse Nardin Freak ONE Gold, a wonderfully strange feat of watchmaking with no dial, hands or crown.
10 Labor Day Sales You Probably Don’t Know About
Forget the usual suspects. We found worthwhile deals on menswear, watches, luggage, design, fragrance, books, and more.