The Fascinating Seiko Prospex Zimbe 3 'Baby Tuna' SRPA47J1 Thailand Limited Edition

Seiko is, by all means, one of the most recognizable names in the watchmaking world. It is equally praised by horology experts and regular fans worldwide, and one simply cannot go wrong with opting for a Seiko since they have every preference out there covered in their rich catalog.

Now, this Prospex Baby Tuna marvel, a unique timepiece that's part of the Zimbe series, Seiko's special Thailand-only collection, is meant for particular people. Those who wish to stand out from the crowd in every possible setting.

Let's dive into the reasons why that's the case.

Not solely a diver watch: Complemented by Military Green Premium Nylon Weaved Quick Release Watch Strap with Eyelet, Seiko Prospex Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 can undergo all outdoor activities and tough conditions.

A Brief Step Back

A short reminder of the history of the infamous Seiko Tuna family helps us understand why Baby Tuna is a special watch. It all started back in 1975 when Seiko Tuna's first edition came to life as a result of 7 years of engineering effort to resolve the helium gas issue diver watches prior had.

Not only that, but the first Seiko Tuna featured more than 20 patents and was a truly groundbreaking product in the field of diving watches. Over the years, Seiko Tuna came through several iterations, went from automatic to quartz and back, and earned a legendary status among Seiko fans.

Stainless Steel Strap on a Stainless Steel case for ultimate masculinity? By all means. Seiko Prospex White Monster SRPA47J1 matched by Rollball version II QR Quick Release 316L Stainless Steel Brushed Watch Strap

The premier Baby Tuna was introduced in the 1980s due to rising demand for smaller diameter and more affordable Tuna models. It also underwent many changes over the years, featuring many models with original features as a result, but all of them carried unmistakable Tuna DNA. Still, one distinctive feature makes them all stand out from any other Seiko Tuna, the shrouded case design. Synonymous with the Seiko Tuna family, it has undoubtedly contributed to the Baby Tuna’s lasting popularity.

The ultimate black and white elegance of Seiko SRPA47J1 Zimbe No.3 paired with an FKM Hybrid Black Rubber Leather Watch Strap is perfect for all formal settings

Seiko Prospex White Monster Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 Zimbe No.3

Now, this is a unique and fascinating timepiece. It's part of the Zimbe series, a Seiko special Thailand-only collection. It was released in 2016, and only 1,286 of these watches were made. That's some serious exclusivity.

A White FKM Quick Release rubber watch strap on a Seiko Prospex Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 Zimbe No.3 additionally outlines the baby tuna's futuristic radiance.

As its name clearly reveals, the SRPA47J1 combines elements of Seiko's "Monster" and "Tuna" designs, resulting in an original and authentic outlook that's a part of an an exclusive Thai series that's caught global attention.

Zimbe 3 has another rewarding feature: It's a genuine chameleon when it comes to a variety of possible strap combinations and fits perfectly in so many combinations. From rubber over nylon to stainless steel straps, Zimbe 3 Monster Baby Tuna blends in perfectly and works in any setting, casual to business alike.

The Seiko Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 Zimbe No.3 feels at home in both casual and formal settings when paired with the FKM Rubber Chaffle Military Grey Watch Strap.

The photos feature some of the most exemplary variations. Keep in mind that those are just straps that are most suitable for summertime wear, while the all-year palette is even greater in number. The volume of possible combinations will address the needs of even the most demanding among us.

The easy-to-wear combination of Seiko Prospex SRPA47J1 Zimbe No.3 and FKM Rubber Chaffle Sand Watch Strap is perfect for summer.

Seiko Prospex Zimbe3 Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 specifications

• 51mm Stainless Steel Case with Black Ceramic Shroud
• Hardlex Crystal Glass
• Caliber 4R36 Manual Winding Automatic Movement 
• Unidirectional Rotating bezel
• Engraved Screw Caseback with xxxx/1286 marking
• Screw Down Crown
• 200m Water Resistance

Seiko Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 has a white dial with LumiBrite hands and indexes for increased visibility. Perfectly understandable for a 200m water-resistant diver watch. The dial inspired the Zimbe 3 nickname since zimbe means whale shark in Japanese, a shark that's characterized by black and white dots on its upper body surface. This lovely watch was released to bring attention to the fact that the conservation of the Whale shark in Thailand was much needed at the time of the Zimbe 3 release. Unfortunately, it still is, but efforts are being made to remedy that.

Light blue and whale shark spots? A perfect match! Seiko Prospex White Monster Baby Tuna SRPA47J1 paired with an FKM rubber Sky Blue Firewave Resilient Curved End Watch Strap.

So, why is it so appealing to Seiko fans? Three major factors are crucial, the limited number of them available, the unusual appearance, and the just cause behind the inspiration for its design. How appealing Zimbe 3 is can be understood from the fact that it is still the focus of attention among diving watch lovers years after its release, regardless of the many other interesting models that have been released in the meantime.

Seiko Prospex White Monster SRPA47J1 in another utterly masculine edition with Metabind II (Pull-Twist) QR 316L Stainless Steel Watch Strap.

In summary

If you are a fan of authentic divers, love highly reliable watches that will stand out in every setting and occasion, and are also genuine chameleons when it comes to possible strap combinations, take Zimbe 3 into serious consideration. If you love limited editions that will not cost you an arm and a leg and support the cause Zimbe 3 promotes on top of that, look no further. Rather, invest time and effort in finding one on the market since they are still available for purchase.

Written by S.K., images by Toni