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Model Name:

Reference:

Seiko Prospex Land Alpinist SPB243

SPB243

Country

Japan

Current Rating

1160

Rating Implied Value ($)

$

750

Expected Rating Based on Price

1160

Rating Alpha

0

Price ($)

$

750

Date Added:

Dec 18, 2024

https://seikousa.com/products/spb243

Watch Description

Prospex Alpinist

1959 Sports Watch Reinterpretation. The first Seiko sport watch - elegant, yet rugged and superbly functional - the Laurel Alpinist is reimagined in this distinctive watch, designed to celebrate the beginnings of Seiko's rise to the forefront of high-intensity timekeeping. Styled to fit contemporary tastes while evoking a vintage feel, this exceptional watch is as smooth and refined as the prized original, but far more powerful. With the original's mountain-shaped markers at 12, 6 and 9 ensuring legibility while referring to its mountaineering inspiration, this versatile design features a gray dial with date calendar and LumiBrite hands and markers, as well as a curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface. The 24-jewel automatic movement beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, and can be wound manually or automatically. Crafted of stainless steel, with screwdown crown and see-through caseback, and tri-fold push button release clasp. 20 bar, 200M Water Resistant

https://fifthwrist.com/seiko-spb243-review/

38

46.2

19

12.9

200

Steel - 316L

Round

Sapphire

​

Automatic

Caliber 6R35

70

Gray

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A.I. WatchMetrics Review:

8.7

Seiko Prospex Land Alpinist SPB243 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics

Overall Watch Rating: 8.7/10

  • Brand (8.5)

  • History & Innovation (9.0)

  • Rarity (8.0)

  • Material (8.5)

  • Movement (8.5)

  • Versatility (9.0)

  • Complications (8.0)

  • Functions (8.5)

  • Dials & Design (9.0)

Summary

The Seiko Prospex Land Alpinist SPB243 is a modern iteration of the iconic Alpinist line, blending rugged functionality with refined aesthetics. Designed for both urban and outdoor adventures, this watch retains the spirit of its predecessors with its robust construction, compass bezel, and automatic movement. It is perfect for enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable tool watch with a nod to Seiko's adventurous heritage.

  • Style: Field/Adventure

  • Movement: Automatic (Caliber 6R35)

  • Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours

  • Case Size: 39.5mm stainless steel

  • Key Features: Compass bezel, sapphire crystal, 200m water resistance, date display

Metric Breakdown

  1. Brand (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10
    Seiko is well-regarded for its value-oriented approach to quality and innovation, and the Alpinist line is a standout in the Prospex series.

  2. History & Innovation (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10
    The Alpinist series dates back to 1959, designed for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts, and the SPB243 continues this legacy with modern upgrades.

  3. Rarity (11.1% Weight): 8.0/10
    While part of the regular production line, its connection to the Alpinist heritage adds a degree of exclusivity among Seiko fans.

  4. Material (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10
    The stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, and durable strap ensure a rugged yet polished appearance.

  5. Movement (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10
    The Caliber 6R35 offers a reliable automatic movement with a long 70-hour power reserve, though it lacks the precision of higher-end calibers.

  6. Versatility (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10
    Its 39.5mm case size, classic design, and robust build make it suitable for both outdoor adventures and everyday wear.

  7. Complications (11.1% Weight): 8.0/10
    The date display and compass bezel add practical functionality without overcomplicating the watch.

  8. Functions (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10
    With 200m water resistance, a compass bezel, and a sapphire crystal, the watch is well-equipped for various environments.

  9. Dials & Design (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10
    The clean, legible dial design paired with distinctive Alpinist aesthetics, including cathedral hands, makes it visually appealing and highly functional.

Conclusion

The Seiko Prospex Land Alpinist SPB243 combines classic field-watch aesthetics with modern enhancements, making it a versatile and durable timepiece for both outdoor adventures and daily wear. Its connection to Seiko's storied Alpinist history adds to its charm, making it a standout choice in the mid-range tool watch segment.

A.I. WatchMetrics Review v7.3

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