Seiko knows how. Not only does it know how to make a great watch, it also knows how to surprise. When we talk about the Seiko Alpinist, we're talking about one of the brand's most recognizable sports watches – durable, precise, always ready for adventure. But this one? The Alpinist GMT SPB493J1? It's a whole new level.
Imagine: Seiko takes its legendary Alpinist GMT, dresses it in deep black textured dial, which imitates the feathers of the tropical hornbill bird, and adds golden pointers and a black moon. The result? One of the most unique Alpinists of all time – the Seiko Alpinist GMT SPB493J1.
And if you're wondering why a platypus – because Seiko doesn't play the first ball.
Alpinist GMT – From the mountains to the jungle
The Seiko Alpinist has a rich history that dates back to 1959, when it was created as the brand's first true sports watch. Its mission was simple - to help Japanese mountaineers navigate and survive in challenging conditions. It has evolved over the decades and in 2003 received the GMT function, which allowed monitoring of two time zones simultaneously.
With the new edition Seiko Alpinist GMT SPB493J1 Seiko stays true to the model's heritage, but at the same time breathes some exotic character into it. Instead of the classic green or silver dial, here we have deep black texture that mimics the feathers of a tropical bird, which lives in the dense forests of Southeast Asia. This is something we haven't seen before in Alpinist.
Why is the Seiko Alpinist GMT SPB493J1 so special?
The biggest attraction of the new model is definitely the dial. Textured black surface It creates a fascinating visual effect as it changes under different angles of light and gives the impression of being hand-engraved. Seiko is already known for its innovative dials (remember the “White Birch” model), but this time they have upped the game.
Another special feature of this watch is its bezel, as it is the first Alpinist with a completely black bezel, which perfectly matches the dial. In the past, we were used to green or silver versions, but now Seiko offers something bold yet sophisticated.
Under the hood is a Seikov 6R54 automatic movement, which offers 72 hours of power reserve, meaning you can put the watch down on Friday and still wear it on Monday without having to rewind it. It also has GMT function, but it's about you GMT, which means that you cannot set the GMT hand separately, but it moves together with the main hour hand. This solution is not as flexible as the so-called “traveler GMT”, but for most users it will be quite satisfactory. The dial also has date window at the 4:30 position, which may not be the most aesthetic solution, but it is functional.
If you're thinking about buying one, get ready for a challenge. Seiko has limited this version to 500 pieceswhich will be available exclusively in Asian countriesIf you live elsewhere, you will have to resort to the secondary market, where the price will quickly jump well above the official prices. $1,650.
Technical specifications – Seiko Alpinist GMT SPB493J1
Seiko Alpinist GMT SPB493J1 has a housing diameter 39.5mm, which is the ideal size for any wrist, as it is neither too big nor too small. Lug-to-lug distance 46.4 mm makes sure the watch sits nicely on your wrist, while 13.6 mm thick no narrow cuffed wrist will hide it.
The case is made of stainless steel, also a bracelet that offers a combination of elegance and robustness. At the top we find sapphire glass with an internal anti-reflective coating, which allows for excellent readability even in bright sunlight.
Seiko also took care of functionality – water resistance up to 200 meters means you can submerge your watch in water without any problems. Fixed black bezel It complements the aesthetics and, for the first time in an Alpinist, matches the dial in color.
Is it worth buying?
Seiko Alpinist GMT SPB493J1 is a watch that will divide opinions. On the one hand, it is a unique model that brings an extremely interesting story and a bold design. On the other hand, due to limited availability outside of Asia, it is almost impossible to get it at a reasonable price.
If you are a Seiko fan and are looking for something special, this is undoubtedly a must-have model. The design is stunning, the workmanship is top-notch, and the mechanism offers an excellent 72-hour power reserve. However, you have to accept that it is a GMT caller, which means the functionality is not ideal for serious travelers.
The biggest obstacle, however, remains accessibility. Only 500 pieces and only for the Asian market? Seiko, why did you do this to us? The secondary market will surely drive the price sky high, meaning most enthusiasts will be left empty-handed.
If you manage to get one of these pieces, congratulations – you will be holding one of the most unique Seikos of recent years in your hands. If not, at least we know that Seiko still knows how to surprise. And who knows? Maybe we will soon have another special edition that will be available to us, “mere mortals”.
