The new limited edition Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315, designed by Bamford Watch Department, features a translucent blue dial, UV-reactive orange accents, and a bilingual date display. Limited to 2,025 pieces, this watch mixes Seiko's historical references with a retro-futuristic design that glows under black light and is available for $460.
Imagine a watch that is not just a timekeeper, but a real time machine – one moment taking you back to the 80s, the next to a future where everything glows like in a sci-fi movie. George Bamford, the master of luxury watch personalization, has joined forces with Seiko to create something fresh – the Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315. Rather than simply re-dressing existing models like he did with Rolex or Patek, Bamford has co-created a completely new watch from scratch. The result? The Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315, which is both a tribute to the past and a mischievous hint of the future. And if you think watches can’t be fun, wait until you expose it to UV light – that’s when the real fun begins.
Proper digging through the Seiko archives
Bamford didn’t just tap into Seiko’s history; he did it with taste and precision. For this watch, he chose the angular indexes and distinctive hands from the 1980s SKX diver, which is still popular with collectors today. Then he added a bezel inspired by the 1960s Seiko 5 Sports, which gives the watch that nostalgic touch we love. The result is the Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315. But it doesn’t stop there – the transparent blue dial reveals a rotating bilingual day and date disc below, with English and Japanese kanji characters. The current day shines brighter through the aperture, as if the watch is telling you: “Hey, today is your day!”
The applied indexes are treated with LumiBrite, Seiko’s luminescent technology, which ensures they glow in the dark, while the minute and second hands are given that iconic orange accent. The unidirectional aluminum bezel follows a vintage template, with orange markings for the first 20 minutes – ideal for those who like to time their coffee or dive. The design continues on a black cloth NATO strap, interrupted by thin turquoise stripes and an orange center stripe that ties everything together into a harmonious whole.
UV Tricks That Will Amaze You – Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315
But this is where the real speciality of this watch comes into play: under a black light. Every orange element – the accents on the dial, the markings on the bezel, the hands and even the center line on the strap – glows like neon. This isn’t just a party trick; it’s part of Bamford’s “paradise” concept, where the watch symbolizes an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life into a world of freedom and refreshment. Like some of Bamford’s other designs, this watch plays on duality: the visible and the invisible, the past and the future. And if you’re wondering why anyone would need a watch that glows under UV light? Well, why not? In a world where smartwatches are full of notifications, it’s nice to have something that just makes you smile.
This feature is supported by sources such as the official Seiko and Hodinkee sites.
The transparent caseback continues the translucent motif, although the large “BWD” logo somewhat obscures the view of the reliable Seiko 4R36 movement with automatic winding and manual winding. It’s not a complete overview, but enough to let you know that there’s quality technology inside.
Technical details: Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315
For those who want the exact specs, here's an overview:
- Model: Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315 Bamford Edition (or SRPL95 in some regions)
- Case size: 42.5 mm
- Case thickness: 13.4 mm
- Distance between ears: 46 mm
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Movement: Caliber 4R36, automatic with manual winding, 41 hours of power reserve
- Water resistance: 100 m
- Glass: Curved Hardlex
- Luminescence: LumiBrite on hands, indexes and day disc; UV-reactive orange accents throughout the watch
- Strap: Black nylon NATO with turquoise and luminescent orange stripes
- Limited edition: 2,025 pieces
This watch isn't just for divers; it's versatile for everyday use, with swim-proof water resistance and an eye-catching design.
Price and availability – Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315
Limited to 2,025 pieces worldwide, the Seiko 5 Sports SBSA315 Bamford Edition comes in Seiko boutiques in November 2025 at a price of $460 / comparable eurosSome sources report that it's already sold out on Bamford and Seiko's websites, so hurry if you want to snag it. This isn't just a clock – it's a statement that time can be fun too.
Conclusion: A Retro-Futuristic Gem
Seiko has teamed up with London-based Bamford Watch Department for a seriously cool limited edition 5 Sports that mixes vintage Seiko elements with a transparent blue dial, UV-reactive orange accents, and a bilingual date display. If you're looking for a watch that's affordable, fun, and full of surprises, this is the one to go for.
