Three new SNXS models with more contrasting dials, new bracelets, increased water-resistance and an automatic movement with stop-seconds upgrade this popular and affordable daily beater.
Introduced in 1963, the Seiko Sportsmatic 5 marked Seiko’s and Japan’s inaugural foray into automatic day-date watches. Boasting a robust stainless steel case and bracelet resistant to water and shocks, alongside practical features and an automatic movement, the Seiko 5 swiftly became a favorite among young consumers due to its affordability. Following Seiko’s involvement in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, exports of the Seiko 5 reportedly surpassed the total output of automatic watches from Switzerland in 1966. Despite the passage of time, the enduring popularity of the iconic Seiko 5 remains unchallenged, positioned as an accessible and dependable daily timepiece. Undergoing a significant revamp in 2019, the latest development reveals updates to the SNXS sub-collection within the Seiko 5 universe, tailored for everyday wear. Enter the new SRPK87, SRPK89, and SRPK91 models.
The trio of new Seiko 5 Sports SNXS Series timepieces, known for their compact dimensions, maintain a diameter of 37.4mm and feature the signature crown integrated into the case at the 4 o’clock position. The case stands at a height of 12.5mm, with a lug-to-lug measurement of 44.7mm. While the curved, sleek case design with its polished fixed bezel remains intact, there’s a notable change: the previously polished central case area is now brushed, a pragmatic adjustment aimed at preventing scratches.
One significant enhancement is the elevation of water resistance from 30 meters to 100 meters. Responding to a commonly voiced concern about the bracelet's durability, the updated models now boast a revamped bracelet equipped with a triple-folding clasp and a push-button release mechanism.
SNXS Lineup
SRPK87K1
SRPK89K1
SRPK91K1
Available in ivory, black, or navy blue dials, all three models share a vibrant orange central seconds hand reminiscent of vintage Seiko 5 timepieces from the 1970s. The sunburst finish of the dials shifts in color with varying light conditions, while the applied baton indices and multi-faceted hour and minute hands are treated with beige-toned Lumibrite, evoking a subtle retro aesthetic. Adding to the visual appeal is the contrasting color of the minutes track on the flange, departing from the monochromatic dials of previous iterations. The date window remains at the classic 3 o'clock position, featuring a dark background. Notable changes include the cursive depiction of 'Automatic' on the dial and an updated Seiko 5 logo reflecting the 2019 redesign. As with other entry-level Seiko watches, the dial is shielded by a curved Hardlex mineral crystal.
One of the most notable enhancements pertains to the movement. Instead of the previous in-house automatic 7S26 movement, the newer editions now utilize the 4R36. While maintaining a comparable power reserve of 41 hours, this upgrade offers several desirable features. Seiko introduced this movement around 2011 as an improvement over the well-known 7S36 movement. It incorporates functions such as stop-seconds (hacking) and hand-winding capabilities. While visual documentation is currently unavailable, the movement can be observed through the transparent caseback.
The three latest models (SRPK87K1, SRPK89K1, SRPK91K1) will be released in May 2024 and are currently accessible at Public Watch Store.
For additional details, kindly visit publicwatch.com.