The Seiko Turtle SRP779K1 has served as my first entry into the wonderful world of mechanical watches. I’m not sure if I was aware of its predecessors the ‘SKX‘ model before owning it or not. It’s possible that since having the beautiful Pepsi bezel in my life I have unwittingly started to notice articles, photos and mentions of how important this reissue is of a cult classic.

One thing I do know is I have started to pay more attention to Seiko model codes. Understanding the ‘K’ represents a watch sold on the international market and the ‘1’ denoting the rubber strap. In the short time owning this watch and wearing it nearly every day there is one thing that stands out to me. The Seiko Turtle SRP779K1 is the perfect weight for how I imagine a dive watch should be. I should preface this with I am definitely NOT a diver by any means, however like many I am drawn to this style of watch. That said in the few instances when I have not been wearing the watch lately I have missed the added weight on my wrist. It also instills a feeling of build quality and robustness that I think a tool watch like this should have.

However with its affordable price tag and the ability to usually pick them up on sale somewhere. I would never have the fear of knocking it or damaging it. In fact, some nicks and bruises especially if caused by doing something memorable would add a great deal of charm and character to the watch.

Most importantly it has managed to capture the interest of my son who was obviously drawn to the cool red and blue colored bezel initially. Then when I explained that it could rotate and was used for tracking time while diving he was even more into it. He will often ask to try it on and sit there spinning the bezel and showing his friends. I look forward to when I can hand this Seiko Turtle SRP779K1 over to him as a vintage Seiko.