There’s an art to Christmas shopping and when you’re looking for something truly special for someone in your life, it can be a huge relief when you get a helping hand. One tried and tested option is a high-quality watch. Watches are a gift that bring a smile to loved ones’ faces — both on the day and well into the future. Whether it’s a partner, parent or friend, there’s a Seiko watch that fits the bill.
Not sure where to start? This Christmas gift buying guide will help highlight some of the best Seiko watches and who they’re most suited to. No matter what their style – or your budget – there’s something here for everyone.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Automatic Dress Watch SRP841J
Whether you’re looking for something special for your partner or mum, this Presage SRP841J watch is elegance personified. The silver case with an ice blue face gives it a classy appeal that calls for it to be shown off. The simple display of the three hands, batons and the date adds to the allure and, at just $650, is the perfect entry-level purchase into the world of Seiko watches.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 33.8mm
Calibre type: automatic / movement-powered
Strap: stainless steel
The Seiko Presage Automatic SRPF50J
Another favourite in the Presage range is the SRPF50J. Coming with a leather band, this rose gold watch has a unique look that pairs well with casual and smart outfits. Again, the face has a simple elegance to it, with roman numerals complemented with a simple date indicator.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 34.3mm
Calibre type: automatic / movement-powered
Strap: leather
Seiko Presage Automatic G.M.T Watch SPB219J
At $2,150, the Seiko Presage SPB219J is the most expensive watch on this list. Perfect for the man with an already extensive watch collection, the SPB219J is a thing of wonder. Seiko fanatics will see a similarity with the popular Sport GMT Spring Drive Model, a higher-end model that is a collector’s item the world over.
The SPB219J is a standout model by itself. Its green dial has four hands, a power reserve indicator and a smaller dial as a date indicator. As with all Seiko watches, it has precision workings and a stunning finish.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 42.2mm
Calibre type: automatic / movement-powered
Strap: stainless steel
Seiko Presage Automatic Men’s Watch SRPG05J
Prominent in the Presage Style 60s Series, the SRPG05J boasts a vintage appeal that’s hard to find in a modern watch. A dark dial with bright batons and bold hands gives a striking look that accompanies a smart outfit. The watch is also water resistant to 50 metres, but like many Seiko watches with this feature, it’s more likely suited to a ‘desk diver’ than someone who actually wants to try out the feature in the water.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 40.8mm
Calibre type: automatic / movement-powered
Strap: stainless steel
Seiko Prospex Limited Edition Solar Divers Watch SNE577P
SNE577P is a limited edition divers watch which is the perfect gift for a watch-lover. The watch has a classic black and hefty dial (close to 50mm in length and diameter) with orange hands and markers that give it a special double-take quality. Capable of going to 200m below water, this timepiece is truly a great gift for a diver. Other features like its heavily knurled bezel make it easy to use underwater.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 46.7mm
Calibre type: solar-powered
Strap: silicon
Seiko Prospex Solar Divers Watch SNE579P
The SNE579P has similar features to the watch above, but with a lower price point of $650 it’s a more affordable option for last-minute shoppers.
There are slight variations that might make it more appealing. The dial has a noticeably smaller diameter, making it a better fit and look for some, but it retains many of the same benefits like the 200m water resistance. It’s also an Asia exclusive model adding making it that extra bit special.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 43.5mm
Calibre type: solar-powered
Strap: stainless steel
Seiko Prospex Solar Analogue Divers Watch SUT403P
The Seiko diver’s range debuted in 1965 and it’s little surprise that they’re still being tweaked, upgraded and re-released. The SUT403P has many of the features you’d expect from a Seiko watch, but enough differences to make it stand out. The contrasting colours of the face, the bold batons and the chunky case size all add to give it a unique yet familiar look. Oh and not to mention it’s a unisex watch making it the perfect gift for him and her.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 38.6mm
Calibre type: solar-powered
Strap: silicon
Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC819P
When someone has it all, it’s hard to know where to start. Without delving into their collection or trying to subtly pry into what they already have, you’re always in danger of buying something they already own.
So what do you do? Buying something that’s new to the market is often a wise move.
That’s where SSC819P comes into play. Released in 2021, there’s a good chance that collectors haven’t made this purchase yet (although, with the popularity of the brand and pre-orders, subtle questioning may still be appropriate).
SSC819P captures the essence of the original Speedtimer and, at $1050, is the second most expensive watch on this list. With unmatched accuracy and a range of extra features (including power reserve indicator, stopwatch and tachymeter), it’s easy to see why.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 39mm
Calibre type: solar-powered
Strap: stainless steel
Seiko 5 Automatic Watch SRPD65K-2
The Seiko 5 is an entry-level model in the luxury watches game. The original 1963 series was a big hit, but it was retired and replaced by this 2019 model. The SRPD65K-2 takes elements from the original Seiko 5 series, but also incorporates touches from other popular watches like those in the SNK series.
In case you’re wondering, the ‘5’ relates to the five key aspects of any classic Seiko watch: automatic winding, day/date, water resistance, a protect crown and a durable case/bracelet. This watch has all that and plenty more.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 42.5mm
Calibre type: automatic / movement-powered
Strap: silicon
Seiko 5 Sports Automatic SRPG29K
Retailing at $495, the Seiko SRPG29K is the most affordable option on this list but with plenty of features that make it one of the best value. Its classic look, 100m water resistance and inbuilt calendar give you all the core functions you need, while the trusted brand name and fine inner workings make sure it over-delivers.
Case material: stainless steel
Case diameter: 39.4mm
Calibre type: automatic / movement-powered
Strap: stainless steel