After implementing the all-black aesthetic only in limited editions, Seiko has revived the Prospex Black Series but now as part of the standard catalogue.  Based on familiar models from the current lineup – the Prospex Sea “Turtle” diver (SRPK43) and the Prospex Speedtimer solar-powered chronograph (SSC923). Whilst the monochromatic black-on-black palette is a favourite for sports watches, the standout feature of the new pair is the green luminous paint on the hands and indices that has a retro feel, being reminiscent of the luminous radium applied to watch dials for most of the 20th century.

Initial thoughts

It’s gratifying to know the once limited Black Series is now accessible as part of the regular product line, since it’s an appealing, affordable sports watch. Admittedly this will be disappointing to some owners of past models that were limited editions, but it is not surprising considering the success of the earlier versions from 2017 and 2020.

As for the watches themselves, the green Lumibrite on the hands and markers is the key differentiating factor, with the rest of each watch having the same design and dimensions as their standard steel equivalents. A useful extra would have been additional strap or bracelet options for a wider range of looks, particularly since all-black watches are now often paired with high-contrast straps.

The Speedtimer is priced at US$700, while the Turtle retails for US$725. Each cost slightly more than the standard steel version, but the execution justifies the premium. They stay consistent with Seiko’s traditional price positioning and remain excellent value propositions compared to other watches in the same price segment.

All black with touches of colour

Originally a sub-line of limited editions within the Prospex collection of sports watches, the Black Series was introduced in 2017 and distinguished by its black-on-black colour scheme, with a black-coated case and black dial featuring either vivid orange or faux-vintage lume.

The regular production Black Series is offered in two models for now, the automatic “Turtle” diver (SRPK43) and the solar-powered Speedtimer (SSC093). The two new models mark the first time the Black Series is part of the permanent collection. Both new models, however, sit in the middle of the Prospex range in terms of price, leaving the possibility that the all-black treatment will eventually reach high-end models like the Diver’s GMT and the recently launched Marinemaster.

Both models share a textured black dial with green luminescent paint that Seiko christened Lumibrite Pro, which incorporates rare earth elements europium and dysprosium that give it superior luminescence. According to Seiko, the green hue of the lume is meant to evoke the display of a night vision device. Colour aside, both retain the specs of the equivalent steel models.

The Turtle has day-date window at three under a magnifier on the sapphire crystal, while the case has diameter of 45 mm and height of 13.2 mm. It’s equipped with the self-winding cal. 4R36 that has a 41-hour power reserve, the same calibre found in the Seiko 5 Sports.

The Speedtimer has three registers, along with a date between four and five. The case is 41.4 mm in diameter and 13 mm high. Inside is the solar-powered cal. V192 that has six months of running time when fully charged. The same movement is found in the earlier Prospex Black Series Solar Chronograph ref. SSC761J1.

Key facts and price

Seiko Prospex Speedtimer “The Black Series”
Ref. SSC923

Diameter: 41.4 mm
Height: 13 mm
Material: Steel with hard-coating
Crystal: Curved sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. V192
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and chronograph
Winding: Quartz
Frequency: Solar
Power reserve: Six months when fully charged

Strap: Nylon strap with folding clasp

Limited edition: No
Availability: At Seiko boutiques and select retailers starting February 2024
Price: US$700

Key facts and price

Seiko Prospex Sea “The Black Series”
Ref. SRPK43

Diameter: 45 mm
Height: 13.2 mm
Material: Steel with hard-coating
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 200 m

Movement: Cal. 4R36
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz)
Power reserve: 41 hours

Strap: Matching bracelet with folding clasp

Limited edition: No
Availability: At Seiko boutiques and select retailers starting February 2024
Price: US$725

For more information, visit Seikowatches.com.