Pre-Owned Seiko Prospex Diver 1975 001-103-02226

WHY WE LOVE IT

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Seiko’s dive watches are among the best — and the most affordable, relative to their specs — in watchmaking. 

From the rare-as-hen's-teeth 6159, to the film-famous 6105 and 6309 models, to the economy workhorse SKX007, Japanese watchmakers perfected incredibly well-made tool watches decades ago — and at prices that make the most diehard Swiss watch fans bristle with jealousy.

The SLA041 from the Prospex line is an enthusiast’s dream. If you’re a Seiko fan, you’re no doubt familiar with 1975’s Reference 6159-7010, aka the ‘Grandfather Tuna.’ Seiko’s first serious dive watch meant specifically for saturation diving, the first Tuna — like all Tuna models — isn’t a looker. Rather, it’s a no-holds-barred instrument meant to take a beating. The SLA041 is a tribute to said watch, and boy, did Seiko knock it out of the park!

This particular example is housed in a 52.4mm ceramic and titanium case with hidden lugs, a sapphire crystal, and a black unidirectional dive bezel. It features a luminous, matte navy blue dial with highly legible round and triangular indices, a matching ‘monster’ handset, and a date window at 3:00. Powered by the automatic Seiko Caliber 8L35, it’s water resistant to a whopping 1,000m and has a helium escape valve for decompression.

Accompanied by its factory goodies and paired to a blue rubber dive strap, this SLA041 is truly a serious diver’s dream. Though if you’re not a diver, you could do much worse in a vacation watch…and you’ll be given serious props by those ‘in the know’ along the way!

OVERALL CONDITION

The case is in outstanding condition overall showing only faint signs of wear from careful handling. Luminous matte black dial is in as-new condition with matching handset. Unsigned crown.