SBDN Solar “Tuna”

The other model is one already dubbed the “Solar Tuna,” a direct reference to the outer protective shroud that is the hallmark of Seiko’s “Tuna”-nicknamed diver lineup. (Read our Tuna buying guide here.)

This 45.9mm x 12.1mm solar-powered (V147 movement) diver is an appealing option for those who might not want to pony up $900 plus for the traditional quartz SBBN model, which features a high-torque engine made specifically for the watch. That said, the Solar SBDN range doesn’t come across as an inferior alternative, but rather a lower-priced companion to an already popular watch. There are six variants in the collection, each limited to 3000 pieces.

In terms of design, the to-be-expected SKX-like hands and date window at 4 o’clock provide a familiar look that doesn’t stray far from Seiko’s diver heritage. The plastic shroud is certainly the most contentious point of the design, and while it may have been a cost cutting measure on Seiko’s part, one could also argue plastic will better protect the watch head because it has more give than steel.

What Tuna fans love about the design is that in spite of its large-on-paper dimensions, the watch can work on smaller wrists because the lug-to-lug height is roughly the same as the diameter, and the straight end connection tucked under the case allows for a variety of aftermarket bracelets or straps.

Interestingly enough, the SBDN029, though already sold out, is a co-branded effort with NYC clothier Freemans Sporting Club. It’s described on the Freemans website as the “FSC x SEIKO Dive watch. Designed in partnership with LOWERCASE Creative Director Yoshikagei Kajiwara.” It’s interesting to see Seiko step outside of its comfort zone to produce a trendy watch (PVD, “vintage” lume) with a recognized American menswear label, and I applaud them for working with one known for producing high quality goods. It’s something G-Shock has been done quite well in the past with companies like Undefeated, so it will be interesting to see where Seiko’s future collaborations go or if this was just a one-off.

At a price under $500 (given that these are JDM releases, the prices will fluctuate depending on time and seller), Seiko’s recent Solar divers are certainly compelling. Building on last year’s release of the SRP “Turtles” (also under the Prospex label), Seiko has been riding a wave of exciting 200m dive watch releases at highly competitive price points. I, for one, hope to see this trend continue.