First released in 1959, some say 1961. The Seiko Alpinist SPB117J1 is now in it’s sixth generation. Gaining a massive following over the years.

The new and improved Alpinist comes in four colour choices. I will be reviewing the black one, with reference SPB117J1 or SBDC087.

First impressions are really good as a Seiko Alpinist fanboy, my first automatic watch was the Green and Gold SARB017. And the sixth generation doesn’t have many visual changes. But the caliber is upgraded from 6r15 to 6r35, which now has a 70 hours power reserve. It’s features a case diameter of 39.5mm.

The new Alpinist also features a cyclops, see through caseback, and is now part of the prospex line. A disappointment to many, but from my personal opinion, I rather like it. I could do without the see through caseback as it’s not so proper for a field watch.

On the plus side according to Hodinkee, the Sapphire crystal has been reworked with an anti reflective coating on the inside.

It’s not so hard to see where Seiko got the inspiration for the new Alpinist, the SCVF005, also known as the red Alpinist is really similar, with mercedes hands and cyclops. And it’s a styling I think will sell very well. I absolutely love it.

As before it has a screw down crown and an inner rotating compass bezel, that seems well put together. The Alpinist is a very sturdy watch.

The Seiko Alpinist SPB117J1 black version also comes with a bracelet as opposed to the other versions. The bracelet feels solid and well put together. A pleasure wearing on the wrist, with two micro adjustment possibilities.

In conclusion, I think it’s rather a case of taste whether you like the new changes, I certainly do. Putting the Alpinist in the toolwatch Prospex line makes sense. The only issue for me is the hefty price increase. But still giving a lot of value in my opinion, but not as much as before.