Seiko Monster: The Aggressive Tool Watch

Perhaps the Seiko Monster is the most polarising dive watch that the brand has ever made. Without a doubt, its aggressive looks have gained a lot of comments, both good and bad, in watch forums and communities.

 

But in time, people have come to love its unique style, especially when new versions came into play. In addition, its price tag will not scare you away, making the Seiko Monster one of the most accessible dive watches of the brand.

 

Find out the different versions that the line produced by diving into our guide below.

A Brief History of the Seiko Monster

Compared to the other dive watches in the family, the Seiko Monster has a fairly short history. For starters, it was originally introduced as the Seiko SKX779 in 2000. It belonged to the Seiko Sports 5 collection and had everything you would expect from the Japanese brand. For one, it featured the automatic Seiko 7s26 calibre. Secondly, it had a water-resistance rating of 200m and a reliable lume.

 

Further inspecting the watch’s design would tell you that some traits were borrowed from the Seiko Tuna. In particular, the shielding is thought to be a homage to the Tuna while attempting to keep prices low.

 

As the years went by, the Seiko Monster has proven to be a classic, especially for Seiko fans. Indeed, the line is continuously expanding into many branches which we will take a look at later.

Why is it Called Seiko Monster?

The term “Monster” can be taken as a good or bad thing. But this time, we’re sure that it means the former. There are a few theories as to why the Seiko Monster earned its moniker.

 

Firstly, its chunky size is to blame. When it first came out, it came in a 38mm size. While 38mm is not considered large today, it was already considered big when it was first introduced in the year 2000.

 

The second reason comes from a smaller detail. All around the dial of the watch are hour markers that resemble teeth. In fact, the yellowish hue that the lume produces adds to the illusion. It is up to the people’s imagination which monster owns that set of teeth. Are those Dracula’s fangs? Or maybe it’s the abominable snowman’s?

 

Lastly, some say that the nickname was given due to its robustness. Just like a troll, the Seiko Monster can take a lot of beating. It is rugged-looking and at the same time, packed with features that the common adventurer needs.

 

Which of these theories sounds the most convincing to you?

What’s Good about the Seiko Monster?

The Japanese brand surely knows what they’re doing when it comes to dive watches. Indeed, the Seiko Monster is brimming with features and benefits. Aside from its distinctive exterior, here are a few reasons why the Monster is worth getting.

1. The Seiko Monster is very affordable.

Compared to other dive watches, the Seiko Monster is well within reach in terms of price. In fact, some of its limited-edition models are even cheaper than entry-level ones. With that said, the Monster makes a very good investment when you’re collecting Seiko watches or dive watches in general.

2. The lume is amazing.

As mentioned, the Monster models have LumiBrite on their hour markers. The Japanese brand claims that it is brighter and longer-lasting than other luminous paints. Apart from that, it does not contain radioactive materials, ensuring safety for the wearer.

3. It uses reliable movements.

Each watch in the Seiko Monster collection uses one of the reliable Seiko movements namely the 7S26, 7S36, 4R36, and finally, the 6R15. All of these movements are accurate, reliable, and durable.

 

Apart from that, parts for these calibres are easy to find. Thus, making them very easy to maintain and repair.

10 Best Seiko Monster Models

As previously mentioned, the Seiko Monster line has evolved and expanded. While some models stayed true to their heritage, some deviated to cater to different users. Here are some of the Seiko Monster models that you should check out.

1. Seiko Classic Orange Monster

Why Is It Good?

As they say, nothing beats the classic. With that said, the Seiko Classic Orange Monster was introduced in 2001 with the official name of SKX781.

 

The design of the Monster is eye-catching enough. But it looks like Seiko’s watch designers wanted to be louder. Indeed, its neon orange dial colour will catch the attention of people. Aesthetics aside, this decision was backed by scientific research. In fact, the Swiss company Doxa stated that orange is the most visible colour underwater.

 

This small detail, along with its 200m water-resistance rating, makes it a very capable dive watch. In addition to that, its hands, hour markers, and bezel dot are applied with Lumibrite. Under the hood, its 7S26 movement clocks an accuracy rating of around +/- 10 seconds per week. This is considered very satisfactory.

Seiko Classic Orange Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 41.5mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

2. Seiko Classic Black Monster

Why Is It Good?

If you think the Classic Orange Monster is a bit too loud, then check out the Seiko Classic Black Monster. It bears the classic Monster look but with a toned-down colour scheme. Its bezel is chrome while the dial is black. Indeed, this colourway will be much easier to incorporate into your wardrobe.

 

When it comes to features, the Classic Black Monster will not disappoint. Its hour markers are filled with LumiBrite. This special non-radioactive compound will allow the indexes to glow for 8 to 10 hours in the dark. With that said, the LumiBrite’s lume lasts longer than other watches.

 

Seiko decided to give it the 7S26A movement. It has 21 jewels, beats at 21,600bph, and can power the watch for up to 42 hours. Truly, the Seiko Classic Black Monster is a must-have for every Seiko fan or dive watch collector.

Seiko Classic Black Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 42 hours
• Dimensions: 41.5mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

3. Seiko Snow Monster

Why Is It Good?

The Seiko Snow Monster is also called the Ice Monster. Seiko released only 2,555 units of this special-edition version of the watch. Despite the high price mark-up from the classic Seiko Monster, this variant was well-received. This just proves that people put the Seiko Monster line in general on a high pedestal.

 

Staying true to its name, the Snow Monster will remind you of a snowstorm, if not the Yeti. Its dial is white while the bezel and the chapter ring come in blue. In addition to that, its case has a sandblasted finish which is considered uncommon among watches. While the difference is subtle, it sets the watch apart from the others, design-wise.

 

Protecting the dial is a sapphire crystal. What’s unique about this model is a magnifier on top of the day and date window. This is a welcome addition as it improves the watch’s legibility.

 

Beneath its bulky exterior is the 7S36 automatic calibre. It has a total of 23 jewels, has a magnetic resistance of 60 Gauss, and vibrates at 21,600 bph. Overall, this is a reliable workhorse that can last you for years.

Seiko Snow Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 43mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

4. Seiko Trek Monster

Why Is It Good?

As its name suggests, the Seiko Trek Monster was made for trekking. While the other versions are monsters of the sea with their diving capabilities, this one is best on land.

 

Instead of the unidirectional diving bezel, the Trek Monster bears a navigational bezel. If you look closely, the bezel features a compass-like design complete with an indicator for North, East, West, and South.

 

Another good news is that it didn’t completely shed its diving skin. In fact, it is still water-resistant up to 200m. This is more than enough for wading through deep waters you may encounter in the field.

 

Overall, the Seiko Trek Monster is a worthy companion for people who love exploring the jungles instead of the sea. But if you’re not the adventurous type, this watch can also be an everyday driver for casual wear.

Seiko Trek Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 40mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

5. Seiko Prince Monster

Why Is It Good?

The Seiko Prince Monster is a promising monarch. Indeed, it takes the best traits of both the classic Seiko Monster and the Trek Monster. As you can see, the bezel contains the typical dive bezel while the chapter ring has the navigational features of the Trek.

 

But more features can only mean one thing — a larger size. This watch comes in a humongous 48mm diameter. Even for a dive watch, that is considered larger than average.

 

And to stay true to its Royal title, the watch is accented with rose gold accents. This is an advantage to those who are into the two-tone look.

Seiko Prince Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 48mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

6. Seiko Black Ion Monster

Why Is It Good?

Among the watches on the list, the Seiko Black Ion Monster has one of the most aggressive looks. Indeed, its black and white colour scheme is something that stands out. To add, the hour markers, which have a yellowish hue, give a nice pop of colour.

 

Furthermore, its features also stand out. Its 200m water-resistance rating is enough for professional use. It also has a screw-down crown and caseback for added protection.

 

Beneath its durable case is the Calibre 4R36 movement. It is self-winding, has a total of 24 jewels, and has a hackable second hand. This movement is considered reliable and at the same time cost-efficient.

Seiko Black Ion Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 42.75mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

7. Seiko Night Monster

Why Is It Good?

Like its name, the Seiko Night Monster is a blacked-out variant of the Monster line. Its PVD bezel, case, and also bracelet come in a matte black finish.

 

Under its stealthy appearance, it uses an automatic 7S26 calibre which can power the watch for around 40 hours. What’s unique about this movement is that it ticks six times per second. What this means is that its seconds hand glides a lot smoother than the average mechanical watch.

 

These were originally intended to be limited. However, due to the demand, the Night Monster’s production run was extended. This makes it easy to acquire this version online.

Seiko Night Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 43mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

8. Seiko Baby Monster

Why Is It Good?

Do you like the design of the Seiko Monster but not its price? The Seiko Baby Monster is the answer to your woes. A lot of watch enthusiasts call it the Baby Monster because it shares the same aesthetic that its other siblings are known for. However, the difference is that it lacks some features to keep the price low.

 

But that’s not to say that this variant is inferior. In fact, it still has a water-resistance rating of 100m. Apart from that, it still features the same automatic movement called the calibre 7S36, which is considered reliable.

 

To conclude, this more affordable version of the Seiko Monster is for those who love the Seiko Monster but can do away with the diving features.

Seiko Baby Monster Specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 43mm
• Water resistance: 100m 

9. Seiko Monster SRPD25

Why Is It Good?

The Seiko Monster SRPD25 is the newest kid in the collection. Released only in 2019, this model has caught the attention of watch enthusiasts for good reason. Firstly, the design is sleeker and more refined. Second of all, it’s packed with amazing features.

 

As for the dial, the watch comes in a metallic blue finish with its shade varying depending on the light. One moment it could look sky blue but the second you move your wrist, it could become navy blue. And like any other Seiko diver, this watch’s markers are filled with LumiBrite.

 

In terms of timekeeping, the SRPD25 uses the 4R36 movement. It is an automatic calibre with a few upgraded features. Among these features are hacking and hand-winding capabilities. These upgrades may be simple but they add a significant improvement when it comes to convenience.

 

Overall, the Seiko Monster SRPD25 is a tamer beast than the original Monsters. Despite that, this is a welcome change as the watch is more versatile and easier to wear in a casual setting.

Seiko Monster SRPD25 specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 42.4mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

10. Seiko Monster SRPD27

Why Is It Good?

As you might have guessed, the Seiko Monster SRPD27 is the sibling of the previous model. It is very similar to the SRPD25 except for the colour scheme. While the other one comes with a blue dial, this one is more versatile with a black one.

 

Staying true to its diving heritage, this dive watch meets the ISO 6425 standards and can be used professionally. In addition to that, its unidirectional bezel features 120 clicks and is solidly built. And to protect all of those features, it uses a thick mineral crystal over the dial called Hardlex.

 

As previously mentioned, this watch uses the calibre 4R36 movement, which is in-house and is also found in other reliable Seiko divers like the Tuna and Turtle. One thing to note about the calibre is that it’s not from the latest 6R line. Which means the power reserve is not as high (70 hours). Despite that, enthusiasts think it’s still a great move from Seiko since it keeps the price of the watch low. In addition, the 40 hours that it offers is already sufficient for most people.

Seiko Monster SRPD27 specs:

• Case: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Power reserve: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 42.4mm
• Water resistance: 200m 

Final Notes

Without a doubt, the Seiko Monster has gained quite a following. With its friendly price tag and amazing features, this is the type of monster that you wouldn’t just ignore under the bed or inside your closet.

 

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