Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB197J1 Seiko

The Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB197J1 is the latest iteration of an iconic line that has been part of Seiko’s line up for over 60 years. It has proven to take a unique spot in Seiko’s tremendous line-up, as it’s truly a watch aimed at adventurers and blends several styles together. When it comes to watches, most manufacturers, especially the big ones, tend to think in styles, such as dress, sports, aviation, diving etc. and Seiko left that all behind when they came up with this model. Now, if you are a capable cook you may know that when you blend 2 very tasty ingredients it’s no guarantee for success. In fact, it tends to be either really bad or really good. The Alpinist marks one of those times where several tasty ingredients become even tastier, by not thinking of styles and groups, but rather creating and experimenting with an open mind. 

So what does the SPB197J1 come down to? To start, an elegantly shaped 39.5mm case with a modest 46.4mm lug to lug distance, meaning it will fit most wrists perfectly. Of course the basics are also there, such as 200m water resistance, a sapphire crystal with an AR coating, a high level of finishing and just overall solid materials. One of the biggest improvement found in this edition compared to the predecessors is invisible, as it’s under the hood: the in-house Seiko Cal. 6R35 movement. This sturdy workhorse features an impressive 70 hour power reserve. 

If we just look at those specifications it could have been any other watch, but where the Alpinist really shines is in the quintessential design queues, such as the internal compass bezel, that can be operated with the crown at 4 o’clock, the date loupe over the window at 3 o’clock, the cathedral hands, polished index markers and the display caseback. All those elements have been on other watches, but rarely in a mix like with this amazing piece. 

With the Alpinist you are embracing a 60 year old design that is still looks very contemporary to this day and likely will do so in another 60. While it may not be especially outspoken for a specific activity, it will be a great watch for every day life, both inside and outside, with a ton of character. Even if your cooking mostly consists of using the microwave, it’s a very tasty piece of design!