Seiko SKX009 Dive Watch

21 Jewels – Self Winding Divers watch

It is easy to recognise this very popular automatic divers watch by it’s distinctive red & blue bezel. We often refer to this model as the Seiko Pepsi. Introduced in 1996 both the SKX009 and it’s all black sibling, the Seiko SKX007 incorporated Seiko’s Calibre 7S26 automatic movement. A reliable mechanical movement featuring 21 jewels – running at 21,600bph. The 7S26 is non-hacking with quick set day & date. If ever there was a Seiko dive watch for the people – this is it.

What to pay for a pre-owned J version – Made in Japan

Prices for this model vary greatly and depend on several factors. Condition and provenance aside – the next biggest influencer on price is specific model. Expect to pay more for the JDM versions – originally produced for the Japanese Domestic Market. These models are the J1 and J2 versions with “Made in Japan” on the watch’s dial. For the purist it has to be a an SKX009J(1 or 2) and you can expect to pay well over £250 to own one. Pristine models sell for £350 on a good day (for the seller..)

A cheaper option – the K version – made in Malaysia

However, the average watch fan may be happy with an 009K version. These versions produced “elsewhere” are often considerably cheaper, sometimes selling for less than £150. The K1 and K2 assembled in factories outside of Japan (Malaysia maybe). Remember to keep an eye out for modified versions – people sometimes add an aftermarket dial signed “Made in Japan” to an 009K and pass it off as an 009J …. more information and history here.