Prospex PADI Turtle 200M Automatic - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093

In Seiko’s latest release of their PADI models for 2021, we see a brand new design language conveying a notably more sleek appearance compared to previous iterations that carried a bright pop of blue and red. While fundamentally still a Seiko Prospex Turtle at its core, this new PADI special edition of the Turtle incorporates an avant-garde dial pattern and the brilliant use of colour to add a great deal of character to this beautiful beast.

With over half a century of expertise in producing professional dive watches, illustrious Japanese watch manufacturer Seiko understood the integral elements to construct tried-and-true dependable diving tool watches. Seiko’s “Professional Specifications” line, otherwise known as Prospex, consists of a family of ISO-certified diving watches with a minimum water resistance rating of 200m. Over the years, Seiko continued to dedicate themselves to producing astonishing timepieces with incredible performance and innovative features. Many of these watches have grown to be an icon well-loved by many in the watch world, as well as countless professional divers around the world.

Seiko Prospex PADI Turtle 200M Automatic - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093 / SRPG19

In the pursuit of further connecting with dive professionals, Seiko announced their partnership with PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), the world’s largest diving network with more than 136,000 individual PADI professionals who have issued 25 million certificates around the world. To celebrate this historic partnership, Seiko established a special range of dive watches under the Prospex line distinguished with its distinct PADI logo etched on the dial.

Taking inspiration from Japan’s first ever original dive watch - the Seiko 6105, the classic design of the venerable Seiko Turtle has continued to look incredibly timeless even in this day and age. Today, Seiko brought us the Seiko Prospex PADI Turtle 200M - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093, their latest PADI variant of the Turtle that stays true to its historic design with a fresh new appearance. Retaining its conventional specifications, the iconic “cushion” case measures in with a diameter of 45mm, a thickness of 13.2mm and a lug to lug distance of 47.7mm.

Despite the large diameter, the SBDY093 wears smaller than the dimensions suggests as the 45mm diameter is largely attributed to its wide tonneau-shaped case. Together with a compact 47.7mm lug to lug distance, the watch rests comfortably on most wrist sizes. Finishing is executed well with clean satin brushing on the top of the lugs and a high polish at the side of the case, adding a rugged charm to the overall look.

Caliber 4R36 Seiko Automatic

At the 4 o’clock position, the screw-down crown is protected by the case, acting as integrated crown guards. This effectively equips this piece with a capable 200m of ISO-rated water resistance, making it a perfect companion to bring with you for diving adventures. This level of water resistance is also achieved as a result of the screw-in case back which reveals the engraving of “Special Edition” and Seiko’s signature Tsunami logo, a mark signifying the watch’s competency as a professional ISO-rated Prospex diver.

One of the key traits that differentiates itself from the Seiko Turtle lies in the bezel of this piece. The Prospex PADI Turtle 200M - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093 houses a jet black ceramic bezel with stealthy grey markers, offering incredible resistance against scratches. Having the first 20 minute markers filled with a cool cerulean blue treatment, the attractive dash of colour adds a unique yet striking character to the bezel while being incredibly practical underwater. This 120-click unidirectional rotating dive bezel gorgeously catches the light with a glossy shine, presenting a grandeur look that is simply pleasing to look at from various angles.

Mixture of case finishing for a premium feel

Naturally, the star of the show here is definitely the astonishing dial pattern of the Prospex PADI Turtle 200M - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093, incorporating well-defined intersecting lines producing a globe-like design on its matte black dial. Despite its intricacy, Seiko manages to achieve a high level of detail in its crispy white text printing, showing off a top-notch dial work. Just like the attractive blue present on the bezel, the minute hand is treated with a similar hue of blue to complete the overall look, pulling off a well-balanced design that incorporates the perfect amount of flair.

It’s no secret that Seiko uses crazy good lume on their watches. The prominent handsets and markers are treated with Seiko’s proprietary LumiBrite lume, glowing exceptionally bright in dark lighting conditions. On top of that, the dial is protected by a flat piece of scratch-resistant anti-reflective sapphire crystal with a day and date magnifier (dubbed the ‘candy bar’ cyclops) at the 3 o’clock position. To finish off the whole dive watch experience, the watch comes supplied with Seiko’s 22mm stainless steel bracelet.

Seiko's LumiBrite

The Prospex PADI Turtle 200M - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093 is driven by the Seiko in-house caliber 4R36 automatic movement, a notable upgrade from the previous caliber 7S family of movements that were lacking in handwinding and hacking capabilities. This 24 jewel movement features a healthy power reserve of approximately 41 hours and beats at a rate of 21,600 beats per hour. Widely recognized as one of a ‘workhorse’ movement, the 4R36 boasts remarkable robustness from the proprietary Diashock anti-shock system and has a reputation to run reliably for an extended period of time without a service.

This year’s release of Seiko’s PADI models truly brought some welcoming updates in both style and specifications, bringing us a modern tool watch that looks understated, unique and exceedingly stylish. Although distinctly different from previous PADI releases, the stealthy look of the Prospex PADI Turtle 200M - Special Edition Ref. SBDY093 is certainly alluring, combining a clever use of lines and gentle curves throughout the piece - a truly impressive offering for both the professional diver and the modern watch connoisseur.