Seiko Prospex “King” Samurai SRPE35 and Turtle SRPE03 Watch Review
Tuesday - 16 March 2021
Joining the iconic Seiko Prospex collection is two new references under SRPE35 and SRPE03, a duet of Samurai and Turtle models now given the prefix “King” to mark their new and improved specifications.
Seiko watch collectors new and old will already be aware of Seiko’s extensive list of nicknames. From the Seiko Tuna with its large tuna-can shaped case to the Seiko Monster characterised by its toothy bezel, Seiko fans have taken it upon themselves to impart unofficial nicknames to different Seiko watches to help distinguish between the designs. If there’s one thing we’re sure about, a Seiko watch has officially reached cult status within the community when it is bestowed its own nickname.
Two of these nicknames are reintroduced today, the Seiko Samurai and the Seiko Turtle. The latter is arguably one of the Japanese watch brand’s most popular and famous models. It was first released in 1977 and is largely distinctive for its cushion shaped case. The Seiko Samurai is also a highly coveted design, first unveiled in 2004 and suitably named after its sleek, angular case shape and sharp, sword-shaped central hands. Only recently, however, has the prefix “King” come about which has been used to describe Seiko Prospex watches that have undergone several important improvements. This is exactly the case with the new Seiko Prospex “King” Samurai SRPE35 and Turtle SRPE03 watches.
What’s the difference between the original Turtle & Samurai and the new “King” models?
With the nickname “King” still a fairly new term used by Seiko, fans are still unsure of exactly what this prefix means. Thankfully, we’re here to set the record straight and let you know exactly what has changed from the standard Seiko watches to those named the Seiko King. One of the first big improvements is the bezel. In both the Seiko Prospex King Samurai and the Seiko Prospex King Turtle, a newly designed bezel grip is incorporated for better control for those wearing thick diving gloves. The bezel has also been upgraded from aluminium to ceramic insert, a material much more reliable in its durability and scratch resistance.
Another improvement is found on the type of glass used to protect the dial. On standard Seiko Prospex models, Hardlex mineral glass is applied while on the new Seiko King Samurai and Seiko King Turtle, sapphire crystal glass is used. For those unfamiliar with luxury watchmaking techniques, sapphire crystal glass is considered the best, not only for its remarkable scratch resistance but for its improved legibility. Lastly, the dial of the Seiko King differs from its standard counterparts. Classic models showcase printed dials while the new King Samurai and King Turtle boast black dials with a stunning waffle texture. This design delivers a handsome three-dimensional lustre that must be seen in person to fully appreciate. Aside from their slightly increased price point, the rest of the Seiko King watches stay true to the collection’s iconic DNA with the same case dimensions, drilled lugs and 4R35 or 4R36 automatic winding movements.
Seiko Prospex King Samurai SRPE35K1 Watch
Alongside the improvements mentioned above, the Seiko Prospex King Samurai SRPE35K1 watch is dressed in classic stainless steel and measures to 43.8mm in diameter and 12.8mm in thickness. Alongside its ceramic insert bezel with new grip technology and unidirectional functionality, it boasts a 200 metre water resistant rating, sapphire crystal glass, a screw in crown and a screw down case back engraved with the Seiko Tsunami logo. Behind the case back is the 4R35 automatic winding calibre which powers the sword-shaped Lumibrite hour and minute hands, golden coloured seconds hand, date window at 3 o’clock and power reserve of 41 hours.
Seiko Prospex King Turtle SRPE03K1 Watch
Like its Samurai counterpart, the Seiko Prospex King Turtle SRPE03K1 watch continues its legacy with its cushion-shaped stainless steel case measuring to 45mm in diameter and 13.2mm thickness. Housed within is the 4R36 automatic winding movement which like its 4R35 equivalent delivers a power reserve of 41 hours and central hands for hours, minutes and seconds. In contrast, however, the calibre instead delivers a double day and date window at 3 o’clock. Again, sapphire crystal glass and a black ceramic insert bezel is incorporated alongside a screw in crown, screw down case back and 200 metre water resistant rating. The waffle black dial is similarly adored with Lumibrite accents and a sleek golden seconds while a classic stainless steel bracelet with three-fold clasp secures the piece to the wrist.
You can shop the Seiko Prospex King Samurai SRPE35 and Seiko Prospex King Turtle SRPE03 watches on the Jura Watches website here. For more information on the collection and on the interest free finance and free next day delivery available, get in touch with the team on 01335 453453 or send us a message at help@jurawatches.co.uk.
