Seiko's UPGRADED "KING TURTLE" SRPE03 & SRPE05

Left: 22mm Super Engineer II Watch Bracelet for Seiko New Turtles SRP777 & PADI SRPA21 SS222020B062
Right: 22mm Angus-J Louis Watch Bracelet for Seiko Turtle SRP777 SS221820B063

When going through Seiko’s collection of dive watches, there are countless iconic names and models that are easily named. Among the list, the word “Turtle”, will definitely be on the mentioned list. When it comes to watch modding, the Seiko “Turtle” models are among one of the two most popular type of watches that are used to modified.

22mm Grey Quick Release Italian Suede Leather Watch Strap, Military Green St. 22H18PBU63S6G17

As popular as the Seiko “Turtle” models are, watch enthusiasts have been complaining about the lack of upgrades with the Seiko “Turtle” model watches. Nothings changed in terms of specifications: Same dimensions with the 44.3mm wide case, same thickness of 13.3mm, same finish with both brush and polish, and ins stainless steel in a brushed and polished finish, the water resistance remains 200 meters or 660 feet, and of course the same 4R36 movement you see on the recent Seiko “Turtle” model watches.

Left: 22mm MiLTAT Italian Handmade Racer Vintage Green Watch Strap, L. Brown Stitching 22J18PBU63R1F25
Right: 22mm MiLTAT Italian Handmade Racer Vintage Charcoal Grey Watch Strap, Same Stitching 22B18PBU63R1C46

At the end of 2019, Seiko finally decided to respond to watch-heads complaints regarding the lack of upgrades with the recent released Seiko Turtle models, Seiko introduced the SPRE03, also refer to as “King Turtle”. Other than the SPRE03 (Black), there are two other variations that are currently available for the King Turtle series, the SPRE05 (Green) & SPRE07 (replicates of Save the Ocean).

22mm Super Engineer II Watch Bracelet for Seiko New Turtles SRP777 & PADI SRPA21 SS222020B062

The two biggest upgrades for the King Turtle models are (1) the hardlex watch glass that is finally replaced with sapphire crystal. Along with sapphire crystal upgrade, (2) the materials used for the bezel insert has changed from stainless steel to ceramic. Other changes with the new King Turtle that are not as important, but still worth mentioning are the designs on the dials.

Left: 22mm Crafter Blue – Black Rubber Curved Lug Watch Band for Seiko Turtle SRP777 CB08A-22A20BZZ
Right: 22mm Crafter Blue – Brown Rubber Curved Lug Watch Band for Seiko Turtle SRP777 CB08C-22A20BZZ

This NBR rubber watch band with a curved solid end piece perfectly fit Seiko New Turtle Prospex 200m Divers SRP777, SRP779, SRP775 and SRP773 models, etc. NBR rubber has superior strength and more resistant than natural rubber to oils and acids. Material has met the RoHS requirements and rarely causes severe allergic reaction.

22mm Hexad Watch Band for Seiko New Turtles SRP777 & PADI SRPA21 SS221820B056

Hexad watch bracelet is a striking new design in 2016. Each link is composed of 3 Chamfer edge solid 316L stainless steel units. Hexad is a contemporary version of the traditional O Boyer bracelet, but more thick & sturdy over 100 grams. This replacement bracelet is designing for Seiko Turtle, Seiko Prospex 200m Divers SRP773, SRP775, SRP777, SRP779 and PADI SRPA21

Waffle/Brick Background Dial

Ceramic Insert & Angular Groove Pattern Edges

The dials on the SPRE03 & SPRE05 models come in a “waffle”, “Brick” resemblance patterns. Some people mentioned that it reminded them of waffles, whereas some described it as a squared brick feel to it when looking at the dial.

l. Others even gave a name “Tapisserie”, a form of textile art. The dial on the SPRE07 (Replicated Save the Ocean), is actually different from the other two models. Instead, the dial on the SPRE07 model comes in a “wave” pattern, much like the previous Save the Ocean mode, but with a much clearer view to it. The ceramic bezel is blue with a golden scale.

22mm Rollball Watch Bracelet for Seiko New Turtles SRP777, Brushed V-Clasp SS221820B089

Last but not least, if you are a fan of the cyclops date magnifier, you’ll be thrilled to know that the cyclops on the King Turtle has also been upgraded to a bigger size. Whether you like the changes with the new King Turtles from Seiko, at least we know they finally acknowledged the audience with the upgrades. Although some may think its not enough, but its good to know that changes are slowly progressing.

Specifications:

Case Material: Stainless steel; ceramic bezel insert
Dial: Black, Green, “Wave” Blue
Dimensions: 45mm x 13.3mm
Crystal: Sapphire with cyclops
Water Resistance: 200 meters
Movement: 4R36
Crown: Screw down
Strap/bracelet: Bracelet (SPRE03) or rubber (SPRE05 and SPRE07)
Price: SPRE03 $625; SPRE05 and SPRE07 $595
Reference Number: Refs. SRPE03, SRPE05, and SRPE07