14 Best Seiko 5 Watches Worth Checking Out
If you’re out shopping for a new timepiece, Seiko is one of the go-to choices. But not all Seiko watches are created equally. Case in point, some models have that distinct logo on the dial. The emblematic shield logo that has the number 5 on it. This represents the Japanese brand’s line of Seiko 5 watches.
Seiko 5 timepieces are very popular among watch enthusiasts. Find out which models are best for beginners and veterans alike by reading our guide below.
What Is Seiko 5?
You might be wondering what’s so special about these watches. Seiko 5 is the brand’s entry-level collection of automatic watches. Additionally, it is Seiko’s oldest and longest sub-brand that is being continually used.
Why Is It Called Seiko 5?
It’s a common question why this collection is named the way it is. Some fans might speculate that it has something to do with the number of models. Others might claim that it’s related to an important date.
Unfortunately, none of those is correct. In reality, the number 5 represents the brand’s promise that every Seiko 5 timepiece would have five key attributes.
The Following Are the Five Key Attributes of Seiko 5 Watches:
- It should have an automatic movement.
- There should be a Day-Date window beside the 3 o’clock position.
- It should be water-resistant.
- There should be a recessed crown at the 4 o’clock position.
- Its case and bracelet should be durable.
Where to Buy Seiko 5 Watches?
Fortunately for fans, Seiko watches are easier to get compared to other brands. You wouldn’t have to spend a whole month hunting for a deal on the Internet. Here are a few places where you can buy your next watch acquisition:
1. Boutique/Authorized Distributor
Buying from a boutique or authorized distributor is usually the first choice. This path guarantees that your timepiece is legitimate. You will also have peace of mind knowing that it is secured by a warranty in case it breaks.
2. Second-Hand Stores
It’s a given that Seiko watches are affordable. However, the term “affordable” can mean differently to others. But if you’re on a tighter budget, buying second-hand is a good way to save bucks. Just make sure to inspect the watch first for damages before whipping out your wallet!
3. Online
If you want to skip the hassle of driving and braving traffic, you can consider buying online. The advantage is that it is very convenient. However, the downside is that you will not be able to check the item for damages. This is why it’s important to buy from a seller that you trust.
What Are the Recommended Seiko 5 Watches?
There are a lot of Seiko 5 models out there. To help you decide, we have compiled our top picks. Read on to find out what makes these models top-notch.
1. Seiko 5 Sports SRP481K1
Why Is It Good?
People often call the Sports SRP481K1 the Baby Ice Monster. One glance at it and you’ll understand why. Its dial is white with blue accents. In fact, the colour scheme reminds one of Antarctica.
This robust watch is undoubtedly suitable for adventurous people. It will withstand years of heavy use with its Hardlex crystal and stainless steel case.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 44mm
- Water resistance: 100m
2. Seiko SNK803
Why Is It Good?The Seiko SNK803 is one of the cheapest automatic watches you could find. But despite its very affordable price, its quality is top-notch.
When it comes to design, the SNK sports a military aesthetic that appeals to a lot of people. Apart from that, it comes with a Hardlex crystal that will protect it from the elements. This very affordable field watch is perfect for people who want a sturdy yet affordable timepiece.
Seiko SNK803 Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 37mm
- Water resistance: 30m
3. Seiko 5 Sports Style
Why Is It Good?The Seiko 5 Sports Style has the most traditional Seiko design. In fact, it resembles a lot of favourite models like the iconic SKX007.
As its name suggests, this watch can be used by active people. It is water-resistant up to 100m and comes with a durable case and bracelet. This is perfect for people looking for a no-frills, versatile watch that they can use every day.
Seiko 5 Sports Style Specs:
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Dimensions: 42mm
- Water resistance: 100m
4.Seiko 5 Suits Style
Why Is It Good?Who says that a diver watch can’t be dressy? Well, the Seiko 5 Suits Style is out here proving those haters wrong.
Unlike the other Seiko 5 models, this one comes with a Milanese-style mesh bracelet. Apart from that, it also has an attractive patina lume. Together, they both give the watch a vintage feel that attracts dozens of enthusiasts.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Dimensions: 42mm
- Water resistance: 100m
5. Seiko 5 Specialist Style
Why Is It Good?The Seiko 5 Specialists Style is one of the most versatile Seiko 5 watches. It comes in basic colour schemes and finishes. Your choices for its case are steel, hardened steel, and rose gold PVD coating.
In addition to its elegant style, this watch has impressive durability, too. You can never go wrong with this model if you’re looking for an everyday watch.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Dimensions: 42mm
- Water resistance: 100m
6. Seiko 5 Street Style
Why Is It Good?As its name suggests, the Seiko 5 Street Style is for the active city boys and girls. In contrast to the other models, this one has a very modern aesthetic.
The design of the watch is mostly black with some variations. It comes in three versions: an all-black dial, a black dial with blue hands, and a black dial with red hands. Whichever version you choose, it’s sure to blend in well with your streetwear OOTD.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Dimensions: 42mm
- Water resistance: 100m
7. Seiko 5 Sense Style
Why Is It Good?What’s unique about the Seiko 5 Sense Style is its textured dial. It comes in either green or brown with hardened steel cases.
If a watch’s subtle design cues fascinate you, then this one’s for you. In fact, people often compare its dial to the artisanship of the Grand Seiko Snowflake.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Dimensions: 42mm
- Water resistance: 100m
8. Seiko 5 SNK793
Why Is It Good?The Seiko 5 SNK793 straddles the fine line between classy and casual. Its dark blue dial is protected by Hardlex mineral. It will make you feel confident that the watch will survive years of heavy use.
Inside, it uses the Seiko Caliber 7S26C. Many people consider it a very reliable and accurate movement. If you’re looking for a good everyday watch that can double as a dress watch, this is it.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 37mm
- Water resistance: 30m
9. Seiko 5 Sport SNZG15
Why Is It Good?At first glance, the Seiko 5 Sport SNZG15 looks like a field watch. And with its durability, it acts like one as well! Its matte case uses a Hardlex crystal for the dial window. In case you didn’t know, it’s the same material used on other more expensive Seiko models.
The main attraction of this watch is the Seiko-designed 7S36 movement. A lot of enthusiasts would claim that for its price, the calibre has reliability and accuracy that’s on par with high-end ones.
If you’re looking for an affordable automatic watch, this one is hard to beat. For less than $200, you get a dependable workhorse with an appealing design.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 42mm
- Water resistance: 100m
10. Seiko 5 SNZF17
Why Is It Good?The Seiko 5 SNZF17, or commonly known as “Sea Urchin”, is a Submariner-inspired dive watch. Emphasis must be given to the word “inspired” as the Sea Urchin still has its own personality.
When it comes to performance, it is equipped with the Calibre 7S36, which is automatic. The indexes and hands are applied with full lume and it has a unidirectional rotating bezel. That’s almost everything a diver needs!
The Seiko 5 SNZF17 is a good entry point for those who want to start collecting automatic dive watches.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 41mm
- Water resistance: 100m
11. Seiko 5 SNKK52
Why Is It Good?One of the most elegant Seiko 5 models is the Seiko 5 SNKK52. Its gold finish is often compared to the yellow gold version of The President watch. Meanwhile, its angular case gives it a distinct personality.
If you’re looking for a dress watch that will catch other people’s attention, this watch is more than enough.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 35.5mm
- Water resistance: 30m
12. Seiko 5 SNXS73K
Why Is It Good?The previous watch is a treat, but it can be too flashy for some people. If you want a toned-down version of it, check out the Seiko 5 SNXS73K. It looks a lot like the SNKK52 but in silver colour.
One of the first things you would notice is its size. Unlike the other watches that are in trend, this one has a relatively small case diameter of 36.5mm. A lot of people consider this size perfect for dress watches.
Additionally, users of this watch will find it a breeze to read the time, thanks to the markers that are coated with lume.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 36.5mm
- Water resistance: 30m
13. Seiko 5 Bottle Cap Root Beer
Why Is It Good?It’s common to hear the terms “Pepsi” and “Coke” in the watch community. But don’t forget this less popular soda-related nickname — the “Rootbeer”. The Bottle Cap Root Beer sports a colourway that looks a lot like its namesake.
With its Hardlex crystal and 100m water-resistance rating, this watch is good for aquatic sports. It also comes with an upgraded movement called the 4R36.
This affordable watch is great for people who are tired of the usual black, black-red, and black-blue colourway.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Dimensions: 44.5mm
- Water resistance: 100m
14. Seiko 5 SRPB96
Why Is It Good?If you want a simple dive watch that is not too chunky, go for the Seiko 5 SRPB96. It has everything that you need for going underwater. Among those things are the unidirectional rotating bezel, water-resistance of 100m, and a rubber band fitted with a buckle clasp.
Additionally, this watch is also stylish if you are planning on wearing it casually. Its classic diver look and neutral colourway are easy to love.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 40 hours
- Dimensions: 44mm
- Water resistance: 100m
Final Thoughts
I cannot think of another instance where the quote “there are plenty of fishes in the sea” is more suitable. The Seiko 5 line is one of the most diverse collections in the watch community. With that said, every person will definitely find a perfect model for them.
Can’t get enough of Seiko? Check out these elegant Seiko Presage watches!
