Seiko - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

The Seiko brand, founded in 1881 by Kintaro Hattori in the Ginza district of Tokyo, has become one of the most influential and respected watch companies in the world. Since the opening of its first store, Seiko has continued a path of constant growth and innovation.

History of the Seiko brand

The year 1924 marked the first watch produced under the Seiko brand. The company continued to develop new technologies, and in 1956 it released the first self-winding wristwatch made in Japan. The real game-changer came in 1969 with the introduction of the Seiko Astron, the world's first quartz watch. This innovation not only changed the direction of Seiko but also revolutionized the entire watch industry.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Seiko solidified its reputation as a technological leader with the development of solar-powered watches and the introduction of professional divers' watches. In 2005, Seiko presented the Spring Drive, a unique movement combining the strength of mechanical watchmaking and the precision of quartz.

In recent years, Seiko has continued to innovate by creating eco-friendly watches and supporting various environmental initiatives. The brand is known for its commitment to quality, precision and sophisticated design.

What are Seiko’s iconic models?

Seiko Prospex

This collection is dedicated to those who seek adventure, whether underwater, on land or in the air. The Prospex offers solid cases, water resistance up to 200 meters, steel or silicone bracelets, and automatic or solar movement. These watches are often associated with professional divers and adventurers.

Seiko Presage

Bringing together the best of traditional Japanese watchmaking and modern design, the Presage offers stainless steel cases, leather straps, automatic movement, and exquisite dials. The collection is appreciated for its elegance and style.

Seiko Astron

This iconic collection represents Seiko innovation. With titanium or stainless steel cases, water resistance up to 100 meters, metal bracelets, solar quartz movement with GPS, the Astron continues to be at the cutting edge of technology.

Seiko 5 Sports

The Seiko 5 Sports collection is a symbol of youth and dynamism. With steel cases, water resistance up to 100 meters, steel or fabric straps, and automatic movement, it is designed for the active lifestyle.

How much does a Seiko watch cost?

The prices of new Seiko watches change regularly and vary depending on the model. Most cost between €500 and €1,000 depending on the finishes. Price differences can be significant between the brand's different collections. For example, the price of a Seiko 5 fluctuates between €200 and €400 and the Seiko Prospex between €300 and €2,500. Prices also fluctuate depending on the distributor, and promotions sometimes allow you to benefit from a more competitive price. The second-hand market is also an opportunity to look at to buy a cheaper Seiko.

Seiko: An essential brand for starting out in watchmaking

Seiko is a brand that has charted its path through over a century of innovation and excellence. Its main models reflect a diverse range that meets the needs of sportsmen, divers, luxury enthusiasts and fashionable young people. Seiko's positioning in the watch landscape is unique, offering high quality watches at different price points, and remaining at the forefront of technology and design.

To find out more about these models, the brand's website is a useful information resource. Furthermore, the Dialicious owners' reviews are essential to making the right choice from this historic brand. Choosing a Seiko watch is more than a purchase; it’s an investment in a piece of Japanese watchmaking history that continues to shape the future. Some may prefer Grand Seiko but this is another journey...

Check out the Ranking of the best japanese watch brands, including Seiko.

(Updated November 2023)