Seiko has just released a lineup of new field-inspired models from the recently refreshed and growing Seiko 5 Sports lineup. Last year, we saw the Seiko 5 dive watches get a refresh with over 30+ new models, and just a few months later were followed by similar “DressKX” variants that replaced the dive bezel with a more subdued polished bezel.
This month, however, Seiko goes a little more outdoorsy as they release 9 new field watch models, the SRPG27K1, SRPG29K1, SRPG31K1, SRPG33K1, SRPG35K1, SRPG37K1, SRPG39K1, SRPG41K1, and SRPG42K1.
Specifications
The in-house caliber 4R36 movement is a step up from the previously included 7S26, as the 4R36 now includes hacking and handwinding, very desired features commonly seen on modern automatic watches. With this movement, we can expect around a 41-hour power reserve and a robust and durable workhorse that is all but extremely accurate.
The watches come in at 39.4mm, almost 40mm in diameter, and 48.1mm lug to lug. They have a thickness of 13.2mm and seem to be a healthy midsize that will wear just fine on just about any wrist size. Featuring a curved hardlex crystal and lumibrite lume on the hands and indexes that we can anticipate Seiko has done exceptionally well, as they often do, there’s no doubt that this watch is going to be as solid as it is handsome. And it has 100 meters (10 bar) water resistance for peace of mind when swimming with it, icing on the cake.
Design – What’s New?
Pulling design inspiration from their older Seiko 5 field watch models, such as the SNZG15, SNZG13, SNZG11, SNZG07 and SNZG09, Seiko keeps with the simple and straightforward field watch design that features both 12 and 24-hour tracks, a day/date wheel, and bold and legible hour marks and painted hands. Below is a shot of the older SNZG13 that these new field watches are based on.
What’s changed in these newer models, however, is the removal of the stepped dial surrounding the hour markers, giving the new Sports models a cleaner and sleeker appearance. Further, the handsets have been beefed up to extend all the way to the outer minute tracks, as the shorter hands on the previous model were a major complaint about many.
We also now see the addition of the new Seiko 5 Sports logo, and the polarizing “Automatic” text, written in script at 6:00. Some feel that the font is a bit too dressy for such a rugged-looking field watch, but that’s up to personal preference.
While Seiko didn’t take any risky chances, experimenting with the overall watch design, they did decide to have a little fun with a few of the color variations. which we’ll get to in just a minute.
SRPG27K1/SBSA111 (JDM) & SRPG29K1/SBSA113 (JDM)
The SRPG27K1 and the SRPG29K1 are the only two models to include stainless steel oyster bracelets. While I haven’t handled either of this firsthand, the included bracelets on Seiko 5 models in the past have never wowed me, so I’m expecting to have to replace these bracelets with a higher quality bracelet or strap also.
The SRPG27K1 features a black dial while the SRPG29 features a sunburst blue dial. These two are the dressiest models of the bunch and would make the best everyday watch for somebody looking for a watch to wear day after day.
SRPG31K1, SRPG33K1, SRPG35K1 & SRPG37K1
The SRPG31K1, SRPG33K1, SRPG35K1 & SRPG37K1 feature textured matte dials that are a bit more outdoorsy looking than the rest. They come stock on a nato strap and are a great choice to compliment an already existing collection, especially if you’re looking for a comfortable and durable piece that can handle any adventure you throw at it.
SRPG39, SRPG41, SRPG42
The SRPG39, SRPG41 and SRPG42 are the wildcards of the bunch, as they each have their own distinct feature. The SRPG39 has a blue to black gradient dial, the SRPG41 has a black PVD coating with brown/black dial, and the SRPG42 has a gold plated case, and a green to black gradient dial that is reminscient of the new gold plated Seiko Alpinist SBDC136.
Conclusion
The new Seiko 5 Sports Field watch models are a welcome addition to the refreshed Seiko 5 sports lineup. While I would have liked to see Seiko take more liberty to experiment with the design instead of just refreshing existing ones, at least they are offering a wide variety of color options. The upgraded 4R36 movement is a welcome addition, and we can expect this set to be just as durable and reliable as nearly every Seiko 5 that preceded this lineup, and I can’t wait to get my hands on one for review.
