After owning the Seiko SPB143J1 for nearly 1.5 months, I’ve decided that it is time to give my owner’s review, please note it is the SBDC101 if you are looking for one in Japanese market.

My attention was first drawn to this piece in mid 2020 when it was reviewed by James Stacey in Hodinkee, but I only pulled the trigger in late 2021.

Among the four SPB models released in the same batch, it was a no brainer for me to pick the grey dial version as I appreciate its versatility. I can wear it with a formal suit or go outdoors for any activity in casual gear, not to mention it’s also a strap monster. It pairs well with any type of straps, nato, leather, tropical rubber, you name it.

The Seiko SPB143J1 is an unusual suspect from the Japanese watchmaker‘s diver range, as it comes at just 40.5mm wide, 13.2mm tall and 46.5mm lug-to-lug. I also think that its 62MAS inspired design will remain contemporary in the years to come.

The bezel insert is stainless steel with dia-shield coating. I’m personally happy with the choice and can’t wait to see how the bezel will transform after a few years of wearing (as I don’t baby my watch). I would think that the bezel will look amazing after picking up scratches and scars over the years of use.

The Seiko SPB143J1 uses the 6R35 movement with 70 hours power reserve, running at 21,600 bph. Although Seiko claims its accuracy to be +25/-15 seconds, I think it is much more accurate than the brand claims, as long as you keep it on the wrist consistently. I did a few tests and it runs about -2 to +7 seconds which is totally acceptable to me.

One last thing that I appreciate about the Seiko SPB143J1 is the machine work on the case itself. I really like the way the bevel is polished along the side of the case, its a very cool feature. Perhaps this is also one of the details that Seiko has created in order to justify the price of this watch.

Is this a keeper? Well, definitely yes.