SKX for SRP - When Seiko shook the watch world
Many of us in the collecting space are fans of the Japanese timepiece juggernaut Seiko. For decades and generations, Seiko has created stunning watches across multiple price brackets, but when I hear their name, the first watch that comes to mind is the iconic Seiko SKX. Released in 1996, the SKX became an icon for Seiko because it was a budget-friendly dive watch that was easily accessible. To the surprise of many, the SKX would be discontinued in Q2 of 2019, causing a massive commotion in the watch world and many questions about why Seiko would discontinue such a legacy.
Fast-forward to August 2019, and Seiko introduces a new watch line sporting the same case design as the SKX: the Seiko 5 Sport SRPDs. Again, it was a shock to see the SKX in a “new model” that featured many different colours, case finishing and dial textures, and for a while, it wasn’t a good shock. Many collectors and enthusiasts were upset by the change and cried to bring the SKX back, soaring over the hype of these new watches, but looking closer, many began to understand why the SRPD line is a genius release.
Collectors and enthusiasts have spent years modding SKX models to suit their styles, and the SRPD line extends across many different collectors' tastes: classic, glitz and glam, dress it up, dress it down—there’s something for everyone, and many think the SRPD is a slight nod to the Seiko modding community.
The SRPDs allowed Seiko to gain more traction as a brand and introduce new collectors to the world of watches through their colourful creations. Over the last few years, we've seen many collaborations and limited editions around the SRPD line, again broadening the spectrum of the target audience for these watches.
Five years since the release of the SRPD, Seiko has seen great success with these Seiko 5 Sport models, rightfully deemed the “5KX.” With many colours and options to choose from, you’ll be able to find something that suits your tastes and collecting style. Want to know more? Feel free to check out our collection of Seiko 5 models available through Canada Watch House.