Introducing: The Seiko 5 Sports Rally Divers SRPK65 And SRPK67
The Seiko 5 Sports line, especially when using the SKX case, has inspired hundreds of references over the past several years. Whether they’re inspired by manga, music, motorsport, or vintage watches, this line is like Japan’s version of Swatch. To be fair, many of the releases pass me by. However, two models inspired by the legendary Rally Divers made me sit up and take notice. After all, the originals are some of my favorite watches of all time.
It’s truly wild how the Seiko 5 Sports “divers” have been used as a platform for just about every type of watch expression. Some bemoan this, and others rejoice. I simply see it as fun and a good thing that Seiko keeps giving us more choices. As far as vintage-inspired models, it’s been hit and miss. Some vintage watches translate well into this late-’70s case design, and some look awkward. Watches like today’s Rally Divers surprisingly fall more on the positive side. Would I have liked 1:1 copies? You bet, but these are a good (and affordable) start.
The Seiko 6106-8229
The Rally Divers — some history
Back in 2017, I wrote an article on the history of the vintage Seiko Sports Divers. Essentially, these were light-duty dive watches with rotating bezels and 70m depth ratings. They were produced from the late ’60s until the early ’70s in a dizzying array of case styles and colors. Today, some of these watches are well known and carry nicknames. They’re relatively valuable in certain cases, but they still represent decent value and are long on style. Some of my favorite pieces from this era were the so-called “Rally Divers.” Seiko originally made these as part of the regular collection and ultimately transitioned them to the Seiko 5 line.
Seiko 5 6119-7173
The Rally Divers famously featured bezel inserts that evoked a checkered racing flag. They came with vivid dials and, in some examples, carried the checkered motif onto the dial. Both the historic Suwa and Daini factories produced versions of these. All contained automatic movements, such as the 6106, 6119, and 5126. The 6106-8227/9 is my favorite reference, bar none, and I’m pleased that we will see it in the paragraphs ahead as a modern release. Today’s other release is based on the 6119-7173. I own a silver version of this model, which you can see above.
As an FYI, the Seiko 5 Sports line hosted its first modern Rally Diver reissue in 2023 as the reference SRPK09. This was based on the Daini-produced 5126-8130. That model is still available today worldwide.
The new models
First of all, Seiko is referring to these new models as “Checker Flag” Special Editions, but for those even barely familiar with Seiko’s history, these will be known as Rally Divers. The SRPK65 and SRPK67 each use the familiar SKX-style case. This translates to stainless steel watches measuring 42.5mm by 46mm on matching stainless bracelets. Seiko 5 Sports models use a Hardlex mineral crystal, feature screw-in display case backs, and are water resistant to 100 meters. Inside, we find the ubiquitous 4R36 automatic caliber with its 41 hours of power reserve. Finally, both references are global releases and are not limited editions. Let the celebrations begin!
The SRPK65
The first of the new Seiko 5 Sports Rally Divers is the SRPK65. This watch is based on the 1969 Seiko 5 6119-7173 that came with either a sunburst silver or petrol-blue dial. In its modern guise, we get the rich blue dial, and I think that’s a real positive. The watch is notable for its navy and silver checkered dive bezel with a luminous pip. The angled black and white rehaut with its luminous dots at every hour is also faithful to the original.
Seiko also did a nice job of recreating the hour and minute hands. Even the orange seconds hand and white-on-black day and date wheels are historically accurate. The overall styling translates well to the more modern case design and somehow looks more polished than its precursor. The original model was incredibly sporty and casual, whereas this could pull duty at the office.
The SRPK67
The second of the new Rally Divers is the SRPK67. Frankly, this is the highlight for me, and I’ll explain why. As mentioned, this watch is based on the 6106-8227/9, which easily ranks within the top five Seiko references in history for me. There’s just something special that I love about the light blue and white minute track on the dial. It combines perfectly with the black checkered bezel and angled black rehaut. The orange seconds hand adds the right amount of vibrancy and brings the whole design together. Yes, this is peak Seiko design in my book, and I’m happy that we now have a modern recreation.
Unlike the SRPK65, the SRPK67 has a matte finish to its black dial. It helps the dial give off an inky vibe. Yes, this is a more casual piece than the other model, but I think it looks fantastic. I’m rarely tempted by a new Seiko 5 Sports watch, but this piece just might have my name on it.
Availability and pricing of the new Rally Divers
The new Seiko 5 Sports Rally Divers are available immediately online or in shops. Both retail for €350 or £310, which is normal for these models. They are marked as special editions, so it’s wise to assume that they’ll be around for roughly a year before production ends. The Seiko 5 Sports watches with SKX-style cases typically receive their fair share of criticism from diehard fans due to their light level of water resistance or the advertised accuracy of +45/-35 seconds per day. I’ve come around on them, though, as they’re fairly representative of what a Sports Diver was 50 years ago. Plus, when they look as good as these two models, I can forgive most of their shortcomings.
Visit the Seiko website for further information on these new Rally Divers,
