I purchased this Seiko Solar Criteria Chronograph SSC067 8 years ago. It was an expensive watch for me at the time and my first Seiko. I couldn’t find the model number. It uses a V175 caliber – a solar chronograph with date at 4 o’clock. The case number is 0an0, measures 42mm, lug width 22mm, 100m water resist, a screw-down caseback, covered by a sapphire crystal. The crown isn’t screw-down, but has a solid snap in and out.

The black dial and hints of bright orange drew me in. It has a 24hr subdial at 3 o’clock, chrono minutes at 6 o’clock, and running seconds at 9 o’clock. I love the matching fonts of the subdials and the large orange numerals in the background. It takes a moment to notice them, but once you see them, you can’t unsee them! The large numerals are solar panels. The subdials being a layer above, makes it appear like it’s floating. Also, in the right light, the panels have a carbon fibre pattern, which I love.

I have a wrist size of 6.5in. The Seiko Solar Criteria Chronograph SSC067 wears flat, due to the tapering of the lugs. A mix of brushed and polished surfaces also make it appear thinner. Although it won’t match well with a black-tie, it is versatile for casual or smart-casual.

The lume is bright and generous on the hands, but is only applied on each hour marker with a dot. This causes reading the time difficult in the dark. Having now experienced unmatched date wheels, I actually find white date on black wheel more difficult to read than vice versa. The bracelet also has hollow end links with only two micro-adjusts on the clasp.

I consider these drawbacks from Seiko quite minor. I’ve adored this watch ever since I got it, and carries many nicks and scratches throughout its life. I’ve purchased more watches since, but this is still my number one. I dare say if I had to only keep one watch, it would be this one, due to its versatility, reliability, strong heritage, and all the details on the dial.