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Seiko Reissues 1968 Original to Celebrate 55th Anniversary of Its 5 Sports Watch Line

Seiko 5 Sports 1968 Reissues 0 Hero
Photo: Seiko

While some may view a brand digging into its back catalog as uninspired and derivative, there’s a good deal of creativity and risk involved when doing so, especially in the watch world. After all, designs evolve for a reason and there’s some challenge involved with interpolating a silhouette for modern-day wearing. If you’ve been paying attention, you probably already know that Seiko’s 5 Sports lineup is celebrating its 55th anniversary this year. This week the Japanese watchmaker has unveiled a reissue of its original model from 1968, along with a trio of SKX Sports Style references based on the 1969 5 Sports.

Seiko 5 Sports 1968 Reissues 1
Photo: Seiko

Retro watches are big these days, and few models are more revered than those from the classic Seiko 5 Sports range, which itself was the spawn of Seiko’s Sportsmatic 5 from 1963, which first introduced the brand’s five key specifications for quality and was also the very first automatic day-date watch for Japan. However, with its ahead-of-its-time design language, new lume, and improved water resistance, the 5 Sports became the legend it is today. Set for a July release, the new reissue — ref. SRPK17 —  is limited to 15,555 pieces and, aside from a higher-quality bracelet and 4R36 movement, is nearly identical to the original with a 39.5mm case and curved Hardlex crystal.

Seiko 5 Sports 1968 Reissues 2
Photo: Seiko

Bolstering the release are three models (SRPK09, SRPK11, SRPK13) styled and colored after the 1969 versions of the timepiece, but less faithful to their progenitors. Available in either orange, black, or silver dials, the watches are placed within the new SKX-style diver cases (based on the discontinued SKX watches) with crowns at the 4 spot, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and a 42.5mm diameter. Equipped with see-through casebacks, these three are not limited editions.

Seiko 5 Sports 1968 Reissues 3
Photo: Seiko

Available in September, the SRPK09, SRPK11, and SRPK13 will be priced at $350, while the SRPK17, out in July, will be priced at $415. Head to Seiko’s website to learn more.