### **Seiko Prospex Diver 62MAS SPB149 LE-5500 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics**

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### **Watch Summary**
The **Seiko Prospex Diver 62MAS SPB149** is a **modern limited-edition reinterpretation of Seiko's first dive watch, the legendary 62MAS from 1965**. As part of the **Prospex lineup**, it **combines vintage-inspired aesthetics with modern watchmaking improvements**, making it a strong option for both collectors and everyday wearers.

Limited to **5,500 pieces worldwide**, this **SPB149 LE** features a **40.5mm stainless steel case with Seiko's proprietary super-hard coating**, ensuring durability while maintaining a refined look. It is powered by the **automatic Seiko 6R35 movement**, offering a **70-hour power reserve**. With **200m water resistance, a unidirectional bezel, and strong Lumibrite application**, this model is a **capable dive watch that pays homage to its heritage while incorporating modern functionality**.

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### **Overall Watch Rating: 7.8/10.0**

- **Brand Metric (8.5/10.0)**
**Seiko is a highly respected watch brand with a strong history in dive watches**. The **62MAS reissue enhances the Prospex collection's legacy**, further reinforcing Seiko’s position as a leading manufacturer of reliable dive watches.

- **Functions Metric (8.5/10.0)**
The SPB149 **excels in functionality**, featuring **200m water resistance**, **a unidirectional rotating bezel for diving**, **a screw-down crown for improved sealing**, and **strong Lumibrite for underwater legibility**. The **sapphire crystal with AR coating** enhances durability and visibility.

- **Movement Metric (8.2/10.0)**
Powered by the **Seiko 6R35 automatic movement**, the SPB149 offers **a substantial 70-hour power reserve**, a notable upgrade over standard entry-level movements. However, **it lacks high-end finishing or advanced chronometric certification**, keeping it in the **mid-tier movement category**.

- **Dials & Design Metric (8.0/10.0)**
The **blue-gray sunburst dial with applied indices and gold-tone accents** creates a **sophisticated yet tool-like aesthetic**. The **vintage-inspired case proportions** pay tribute to the original 62MAS while modern refinements improve wearability.

- **Versatility Metric (7.8/10.0)**
While the **SPB149 is primarily a dive watch**, its **relatively compact size and vintage styling allow for casual and semi-formal wear**. However, **it may not be suitable for formal occasions**, slightly reducing its versatility.

- **Material Metric (7.8/10.0)**
The **stainless steel case with Seiko’s super-hard coating adds durability**, and the **sapphire crystal enhances scratch resistance**. However, **the use of aluminum for the bezel insert instead of ceramic limits its material score**.

- **History & Innovation Metric (7.8/10.0)**
The **original 62MAS was a groundbreaking watch in Seiko’s dive watch history**, and this modern reissue remains **faithful to its design ethos**. While the **watch does not introduce new innovations**, it successfully **blends vintage design with modern performance upgrades**.

- **Complications Metric (7.0/10.0)**
The **SPB149 features a date complication**, but as a **traditional three-hand dive watch**, it remains relatively simple in terms of additional functions.

- **Rarity Metric (7.0/10.0)**
With **5,500 pieces produced, the SPB149 is a limited edition**, though **not ultra-rare**. While its **heritage and colorway make it desirable**, its **availability is still relatively high compared to more exclusive limited editions**.

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### **Celebrity and Historical Figures**
While **no specific celebrities have been publicly associated with the SPB149**, Seiko dive watches have been worn by several notable figures, including:
- **Robert Redford** – Wore a vintage Seiko diver in *All Is Lost* (2013).
- **Ed Harris** – Wore a Seiko dive watch in *The Abyss* (1989).

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### **Final Thoughts**
The **Seiko Prospex Diver 62MAS SPB149 LE-5500** is a **well-balanced mix of vintage design, modern performance, and practical dive functionality**. With **strong historical ties, a refined aesthetic, and solid specifications**, it **delivers great value for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate Seiko’s diving heritage**.

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### **A.I. WatchMetrics Review v16.1**