The Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB117J1 is the latest iteration of an iconic line that has been part of Seiko's line up for over 60 years. It has proven to take a unique spot in Seiko's tremendous line-up, as it's truly a watch aimed at adventurers and blends several styles together. When it comes to watches, most manufacturers, especially the big ones, tend to think in styles, such as dress, sports, aviation, diving etc. and Seiko left that all behind when they came up with this model. Now, if you are a capable cook you may know that when you blend 2 very tasty ingredients it's no guarantee for success. In fact, it tends to be either really bad or really good. The Alpinist marks one of those times where several tasty ingredients become even tastier, by not thinking of styles and groups, but rather creating and experimenting with an open mind.

So what does the SPB117J1 come down to? To start, an elegantly shaped 39.5mm case with a modest 46.4mm lug to lug distance, meaning it will fit most wrists perfectly. Of course the basics are also there, such as 200m water resistance, a sapphire crystal with an AR coating, a high level of finishing and just overall solid materials. One of the biggest improvement found in this edition compared to the predecessors is invisible, as it's under the hood: the in-house Seiko Cal. 6R35 movement. This sturdy workhorse features an impressive 70 hour power reserve.

If we just look at those specifications it could have been any other watch, but where the Alpinist really shines is in the quintessential design queues, such as the internal compass bezel, that can be operated with the crown at 4 o'clock, the date loupe over the window at 3 o'clock, the cathedral hands, polished index markers and the display caseback. All those elements have been on other watches, but rarely in a mix like with this amazing piece.

With the Alpinist you are embracing a 60 year old design that is still looks very contemporary to this day and likely will do so in another 60. While it may not be especially outspoken for a specific activity, it will be a great watch for every day life, both inside and outside, with a ton of character. Even if your cooking mostly consists of using the microwave, it's a very tasty piece of design!

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• *Authorised dealer of Seiko watches
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• We're an authorised dealer of all of our brands, unless otherwise noted. In this day and age there are also many 'grey market dealers' that compromise. What are the main benefits of buying from an authorised dealer with regard to the warranty?

  3 year warranty

  Seiko watches come with a 3 year warranty. This covers all mechanical malfunction arising from parts failure and/or assembly errors. Excluded are parts that by their nature may not last 3 years, like batteries and leather straps, damage/problems caused by improper use and wear and tear. We stand behind the brands that we sell and the quality that they offer.
  Some of our brands also offer an international warranty, which will also apply.

  Service and parts

  In the unfortunate event of a problem with your watch, you simply need to send it to us (or take it to another dealer if the brand offers an international warranty). We have access to the official service centers, where only original parts are used and the watchmakers are qualified and experienced with your type of watch. Not every watch movement is the same, so it's best if it's handled by people who know what they are doing.
  After your 2 years warranty has expired we are able to offer service in most cases.

• Read all about Seiko on our dedicated brand page.