First debuting as a television series in 1971, Kamen Rider — or “The Masked Rider” — is an iconic Japanese superhero franchise that follows a motorcycle-riding protagonist as they attempt to takedown a shadowy criminal organization set on world domination. In addition to spawning a host of spinoffs, comic books, video games, and movies and TV shows, the popularity of the masked rider has now given way to a limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the watch famously worn by The Masked Rider.
Christened the Seiko 5 Sports 55th Anniversary Masked Rider Limited Edition, this limited edition watch (reference # SRPJ91) was released to coincide with the 55th anniversary of the 5 Sports. Taking influence form the Seiko watch worn by the show’s main character, this Masked Rider Limited Edition watch features a speckled dark green dial that was inspired by the finish on Masked Rider’s helmet. Weighing just 3.3oz, the watch is crafted around a 42.5mm stainless steel case that affords 100 meters of water resistance. At the heart of the watch is a 4R36 automatic movement with 24 jewels and. A41-hour power reserve.
The red scarf that the superhero wears also serves as the inspiration for the dial’s red seconds hand, and the black calfskin leather straps red leather lining. In addition to each watch’s semi-transparent case-back featuring each unit’s individual production number, the exhibition window also sports the words “Limited Edition” and the classic Tachibana Racing logo, that famously adorned The Masked Rider’s motorcycle and belt. Limited to just 4,000 units worldwide, the watch abs comes sold in a specially-designed gift box with overlapping acrylic plates.
Slated for a release in April of 2023, the Seiko 5 Sports 55th Anniversary Masked Rider Limited Edition SRPJ91 Watch has been priced at NOK 4,998 (~ $480).
