In 2025, Seiko opens a new year of watchmaking with two blockbuster series-King Seiko VANAC and Prospex diving watches. The former is a “reimagination” of the classic VANAC series from the 1970s, and the latter is a tribute to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the birth of Japan’s domestic diving watches. These two watches not only continue the brand’s historical heritage, but also incorporate modern design and technological innovation. So, are they worth buying? The following is an in-depth analysis for you from the three dimensions of design, performance, and collection value.
King Seiko VANAC: the perfect fusion of retro and modern
The VANAC series was born in the 1970s and became the focus of the market at that time with its avant-garde design and bold color matching. In 2025, Seiko reinterpreted this classic series and launched the new King Seiko VANAC watch. The new watch retains VANAC’s iconic polygonal case and large time scale design. The V-shaped time scale at 12 o’clock echoes the design at the end of the second hand, emphasizing the theme of the series.
- Five color options : Three regular models of blue, purple, and white, as well as a gold limited edition that symbolizes the Tokyo sunrise and a light blue store-limited model to meet different aesthetic needs.
- Innovative face plate design : Double-layer structure inside and outside, with sunray horizontal stripes on the inner ring and frosted centripetal stripes on the outer ring, full of layering; the V-shaped design of the 12 o’clock time scale echoes the end of the second hand, with a distinct theme.
- Brand new 8L45 movement : For the first time, it is equipped with a transparent bottom cover, with a power reserve of up to 3 days. Its performance is comparable to Grand Seiko’s 9S65 movement, taking into account both practicality and ornamental value.
- Sports style upgrade : The multi-angular case combines mirror polishing and sharp lines. The chain strap design is inspired by metal cutting technology. It is comfortable to wear and has strong visual impact.
Prospex diving watch: a tribute to 60 years of ocean legend
2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the launch of Seiko’s first diving watch 62MAS. For this purpose, the Prospex series has launched three limited editions. Among them, Marinemaster SLA081 has become the focus with its 45.4 mm titanium case and 600-meter waterproof performance. The dial is designed with dark blue wave patterns, and the hour markers are fully embedded in the dial, showing the mystery and power of the deep sea.
The other two limited edition works, SPB511 and SPB509, pay tribute to the 62MAS in 1965 and the 300-meter waterproof diving watch in 1968 respectively. The two watches are equipped with 6R55 and 6R54 movements. The dials are inspired by traditional Japanese ukiyo-e and wood carvings, and the wavy patterns are full of dynamic beauty. The folding clasp is equipped with a fine-adjustment system with an adjustment range of up to 15 mm, which greatly improves wearing comfort.
- Marinemaster SLA081 : 45.4mm titanium case, waterproof to 600 meters, equipped with 8L45 movement, using L-shaped gasket design without helium escape valve, with excellent professional performance. The dark blue wavy dial is inspired by the refraction of sunlight in the deep sea. The embedded hour markers improve durability. The overall design has both a sense of power and artistic beauty.
- SPB511 and SPB509 : They pay tribute to the 1965 62MAS and the 1968 high-frequency diving watches respectively. They are equipped with 6R55 and 6R54 movements, with a new GMT function and a wave-patterned dial. They are inspired by Japanese Ukiyo-e and show strong Japanese aesthetics.
- Fine-tuning clasp system : The folding clasp is equipped with the latest 15mm range six-stage fine-tuning, which can be easily adjusted without taking it off, greatly improving wearing convenience.
Buying advice and pitfall avoidance guide
- Suitable for the crowd ：
- King Seiko VANAC: an urban elite who pursues individual design and high-quality mechanical watches
- Prospex diving watch: diving enthusiasts or professionals who like outdoor adventures
- Key points for inspection ：
- Check whether the dial texture is clear. Genuine wavy texture has a layered feel under the light.
- Observe whether there are burrs at the connection between the chain strap and the watch case. The authentic workmanship is fine and flawless.
- Ask for the official warranty card and confirm the consistency between the limited number and the certificate
The new King Seiko VANAC offers five color options, including a gold dial limited edition and a light blue dial store limited edition. The three limited edition works of the Prospex series have become the first choice for diving watch enthusiasts because of their unique design and historical significance. These new products are not only a tribute to Seiko’s history, but also a reflection of the brand’s innovative spirit.