Seiko’s New PADI Dive Watches Feature Gradient Green Dials That Mimic Underwater Light

Seiko’s history with dive watches is nothing short of legendary, from the groundbreaking 62MAS in 1965 to pioneering the world’s first titanium diver a decade later. But it wasn’t until 2016 that the brand found its perfect collaborative partner in PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors. Debuting with the “Turtle” watch in classic blue-and-red PADI colors became an instant hit, confirming Seiko’s prowess in the category, as if there were any question. 

Nearly a decade later, the Japanese manufacturer is celebrating its partnership once again with two emerald-green editions, but with something interesting happening on the dial.

Breaking the PADI Mold

Since 2016, Seiko’s PADI editions have largely stuck to the predictable blue-and-red formula that mirrors the diving organization’s logo. The brand-new SPB501 (Heritage) and SRPL53 (Samurai) throw that playbook out the window with their emerald-green aesthetic, creating what might be the most visually arresting PADI divers yet with the help of a new gradient dial effect that mimics underwater light filtration. It’s paired with a wave-like pattern that radiates from the top of the dial.

Green dive watches have historically been a tough sell, often getting overshadowed by the more ocean-inspired blue. But when it works, it works. Almost teal in its execution, this particular shade is at-home on a dive watch but still handsome enough to warrant a special-edition release. Surrounding the dial is an aluminum bezel insert with a 60-minute diving scale. The unidirectional bezel is also colored in green to match the dial.

Heritage Meets Innovation

The Heritage SPB501 represents something of a watershed moment for Seiko’s PADI series. At $1,650, it’s the most expensive collaboration so far. And, most importantly, it’s also the first to feature the brand’s premium 62MAS-inspired case design. Housed inside the 40mm stainless steel case with 300m of water resistance, the in-house 6R55 movement is a solid choice for this premium release. The automatic caliber has manual winding capabilities and 72 hours of power on tap.

Around the wrist, the watch comes with both a stainless steel 3-link bracelet and a matching green NATO strap made from recycled fishing nets. The bracelet boasts a tool-free micro-adjustment system with a wetsuit extension as expected. 

Samurai’s Second Act

Along with the SPB501, there’s also the SRPL53, equipped with the same green gradient dial and matching bezel setup. Compared to the above watch, this one swaps the block-shaped hands with a sword handset, and has bigger dimensions as well. Rated to 200m of water resistance, this piece benefits from last year’s Samurai redesign, which thankfully dialed back some of the original’s more aggressive proportions. At 41.7mm, it’s finally approachable for a wider range of wrists, while retaining enough angular character to distinguish itself from Seiko’s rounder offerings. The 4R35 movement keeps costs reasonable at $670 — significantly less expensive than the Heritage SPB501.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

Both models are available now through Seiko boutiques and certified retailers. Not limited in edition size, the SPB501 Heritage PADI retails for $1,650, while the SRPL53 Samurai PADI comes in at $670.

Recap

Seiko Prospex PADI SPB01 Heritage & SRPL53 Samurai Special Editions

Breaking the normal blue-and-red PADI diver mold, Seiko made these emerald green versions with a cool dial effect that looks like you’re swimming underwater.

Learn More: Seiko