Seiko has been impressing watch enthusiasts worldwide with its plethora of new models released throughout the years, often in special or limited series. The latest addition to their Prospex collection, the Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation: The Naomi Uemura Limited Edition SLA069, pays tribute to the legendary Japanese mountaineer and adventurer, Naomi Uemura.
Naomi Uemura was a renowned explorer who made history by conquering Mont Blanc, Mt Kilimanjaro, Mt Aconcagua, Mt Everest, and Denali (also known as Mt McKinley) within a span of just four years. He was the first person to reach the North Pole solo and to raft the Amazon solo. Uemura also made a solo dog sledge run from Greenland to Alaska, which took him 18 months to complete. Unfortunately, he disappeared while descending from the Denali climb in 1984 at the age of 43. But his legacy lives on in the exploration world.
Uemura wore the Seiko 1970s diver’s watch on his wrist during many of his challenges, which became known as the Seiko “Uemura diver.” In honour of his remarkable achievements, Seiko released the Uemura 80th-anniversary edition in 2021, featuring a beautiful grainy blue dial and blue bezel that perfectly complemented the case’s shape. And now, Seiko has decided to commemorate Uemura’s conquering of Mont Blanc in 1966 at age 25 with their latest edition.
The Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver’s Modern Re-Interpretation Naomi Uemura SLA069 is a limited edition of just 500 pieces and will be available from May 2023 onwards at Seiko Boutiques and selected retailers for 3,000€. The case is a classic Willard, with a rounded cushion shape featuring distinct polished sides and wide, flat upper surfaces that are finely brushed. The crown is guarded and in its expected 4 o’clock position, with the overall case dimensions measuring 44mm in diameter and 13mm in height. The bezel and off-centred crown are blue, giving it a distinct look, while the metallic insert is finished in black to add yet more contrast against the blue and silver tones of the rest of the case.
The snow-white dial is constructed using different etching techniques to create a unique texture and imagery. The silhouette of the Mont Blanc mountain range can be seen coming through the snow-like texture. The large applied numerals and sword-shaped hands are finished with LumiBrite, with the seconds hand showing the familiar paddle-shaped tip. A window at 04:30 reveals the date underneath.
Inside the case, the Seiko Prospex SLA069 houses the caliber 8L35 automatic, which has a frequency of 28,800vph, uses 26 jewels and has a running time of 50 hours. It is regulated to run within +15 to -10 seconds of deviation per day and is hidden from view behind a solid caseback, which along with the screw-down crown, ensures the water-resistance of 200m.
Seiko has always been known for its commitment to innovation and quality, and this new addition to their Prospex collection is no exception. The attention to detail and design elements in the Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver’s Modern Re-Interpretation Naomi Uemura SLA069 is remarkable. From the grainy blue dial to the distinct polished sides of the case, every aspect of this watch is designed with precision and care.
The watch comes on a five-link stainless steel bracelet with brushed big links and polished slender links in between, fitted with a triple-folding buckle that includes a diver’s extension. The stainless steel bracelet with brushed big links and polished slender links in between is not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable to wear. The triple-folding buckle that includes a diver’s extension ensures a secure fit on the wrist, making it perfect for any adventure.
The Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver’s Modern Re-Interpretation Naomi Uemura SLA069 is more than just a timepiece; it is a symbol of adventure and exploration. It pays tribute to a man who pushed the limits of human endurance and inspired generations of adventurers to follow in his footsteps. For more information, please visit their website.
Brand: Seiko
Model: Prospex 1970 Diver’s Modern Re-interpretation The Naomi Uemura Limited Edition
Reference Number: SLA069
Case Diameter: 44mm
Case Thickness: 13mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Water Resistance: 200 meters
Dial: Mont Blanc relief on white textured background
Crystal: Domed sapphire with AR under-coating
Strap: Stainless steel bracelet with triple-folding clasp
Movement: Seiko Caliber 8L35
Frequency: 28,800 vph
Power Reserve: 50 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Availability: Now, limited to 500 pieces
Price: 3,000€
