Japanese watchmaking giant Seiko has once again joined forces with the Neon Genesis Evangelion franchise, this time to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the legendary series. As part of the "RADIO EVA THE 30" project, they have unveiled the Seiko x Evangelion C038 EVA-01, which marks a significant milestone: it is the first time that Seiko has presented a true diver's watch that is fully inspired by the design of the EVA Unit-01 mecha. This watch is not only a collector's item for anime fans, but a robust tool that builds on Seiko's proven "prospex" heritage.
Visual identity of the watch Seiko x Evangelion is instantly recognizable. The massive 45mm stainless steel case serves as the basis for an aggressive purple and green color scheme that directly mimics the iconic Unit-01 armor. The designers went beyond simple paint, as the dial is decorated with a textured honeycomb pattern that evokes the technological world of NERV, while the indices at 12, 2 and 10 are modeled after the robot’s face and chest plates. The most striking aesthetic element is the seconds hand, which is shaped like the legendary Spear of Longinus. This deep red detail, as it circles around the dial, creates a dramatic effect and a symbolic connection to the events of the series.
A classic heart under the hood
Despite its distinctly collectible nature, the C038 is not just a showpiece, but a robust watch. Technically, it is a true diver, meeting water resistance standards up to 200 meters. The watch is powered by a proven and reliable Seiko automatic movement. caliber 4R36, which offers a 41-hour power reserve and a day and date display. For real-world use – whether in the water or in everyday life – a durable black silicone strap and a generous application of LumiBrite coating on the hands and indices ensure excellent readability even in poor lighting conditions.
Where can I buy it?! And how much will it cost me?
This timepiece is for the select few, as Seiko has announced a strictly limited edition of just 300 pieces worldwide. Such a small edition will undoubtedly create exceptional demand among collectors. The watch will be officially released in early March 2026, and will be available exclusively through official EVA online storesThe price is set at 132,000 JPY (approximately 847 USD / around 900 EUR), which, given the specifications and exclusivity, is an expected price range for this type of limited edition.
| Property | Specification |
| Mechanism | Seiko Caliber 4R36 (Automatic with manual winding option) |
| Winding reserve | Approximately 41 hours |
| Waterproof | 200m (ISO standard for diving watches) |
| Housing | Stainless steel, diameter 45 mm |
| Glass | Hardlex (probably, given the standard models of this range) |
| Luminescence | LumiBrite on hands and indices for visibility in the dark |
| Belt | Durable black silicone strap (accordion style) |
| Functions | Day and date display (Day-Date), hacking (stop seconds) |
