For years, we said the best all-around watch is a Seiko, either the SKX007 or the Orange Monster. They’re legends, and great watches for everything from daily wear to rugged use. The introduction of a GMT movement to the lineup makes it ready for all the adventures you’re about to take.
What makes an SKX style watch so good? It’s the combination of a few things:
- the price, at under $500.
- A competent movement that’s extremely reliable.
- comfortable wear, due to the short 46mm lug to lug distance.
- the always-excellent Seiko lume on the dial and hands.
Why do you need a GMT?
Traveling is a part of life. Sure, you could walk off a plane and power on your mobile phone, wait for it to start and acquire time from a local cell tower. What if you want to know 3 time zones at once, and want it to work regardless of cell signal or battery power?
You need a GMT watch. The Seiko SSK is the right answer. It follows the traditional formula for GMT, giving you date, 24 hour rotating bezel for a 3rd time zone, and the 24 hour hand. The way it works is, set the hour and minutes to your local time, and when you land, set the 24 h to your new time zone. For a third time zone, adjust the rotating bezel so that the 24h points to the number of the new time zone.
What makes it special?
The SKX is a classic shape. Even as Seiko has eliminated the SKX model, they still use the term for the overall style of watch, because it’s so beloved. The GMT movements of the past have largely been reserved for more expensive watches, either in Seiko’s own Presage line, or in Swiss watches with Sellita or ETA movements. Bringing the 4R34 to the Seiko 5 line means everyone can have GMT watches.
Traveler time
Grab your hat, your coat, and your watch– it’s time for an adventure. The Seiko SSK in its SKX-style case is available in orange, blue, or black dial, on a jubilee style bracelet. It’s a great watch for the beach, the mountains, or wherever your adventures take you. The SSK is now available for $475 USD from seikowatches.com
Technical specifications from Seiko:
Movement:
- Automatic GMT with manual winding capability
- 21,600 vibrations per hour
- Power reserve: approximately 41 hours
- 24 jewels
- Caliber 4R34
Appearance:
- Blue and black 24-hour GMT bezel
- Blue dial
- Magnified date calendar
- Luminous hands and markers
- Large GMT hand for improved visibility and legibility
Materials:
- Screwdown see-through caseback
- Case diameter: 42.5mm
- Stainless steel case and stylized five-row bracelet
- Tri-fold push button release clasp with lock
- Water-resistant to 10 bar, 100 meters (330 feet)
