While the SPB051/053 (reviewed here) were in the spirit of the 62MAS, they also had significant visual changes that make them their own watches. Those changes, as is always the case when the archives are being drawn upon, were a bit divisive amongst enthusiasts, though after some initial indigestion, they were accepted and the watches were appreciated. The SPB149 isn’t a new version of those watches, it’s a whole new take on an affordable 62MAS recreation that stays much closer to the original, which is likely to both please fans and possibly infuriate 051/053 owners.

At 40.5mm vs 42.5mm it’s significantly smaller, bringing it much closer to the original and higher-end recreation. I imagine non-watch nerds would look at those two numbers and say “so what?” but us enthusiasts know that on the wrist that will make a world of difference. The crown at three and straight lugs remain, sticking with the 62MAS’ design language. Next, the dial has been overhauled. The markers appear to be a sort of hybrid between the 051/053 and the original, staying closer to the latter for a simpler appearance. Remarkably, the chapter ring has also been removed, keeping the dial flat which immediately gives it a more vintage look. Tying the 149 to the 55th trilogy, the dial is a very appealing blue-gray sunburst.

Next, and this is where 051/053 fans might get a bit prickly, the hands have been changed from the contentious large arrow and sword, to straight swords. While closer in style to the 62MAS, they are actually even more similar to the contemporary Marine Master’s hands, as they feature pointed tips. The result is a cleaner dial that’s truer to the source. Lastly, the bezel insert has gotten an interesting redesign making it neither exactly like the 62MAS or the other modern reinterpretations. In photos, it appears a bit wider and flatter, and while maintaining the classic Seiko layout of numerals, lines, and dots, the typography seems taller and more square. Frankly, it’s a great look that I hope to see on more Seiko divers.