Inspired by the original Seiko ‘Alpinist’ from 1959, designed for Japanese mountain men to be reli...Inspired by the original Seiko ‘Alpinist’ from 1959, designed for Japanese mountain men to be reliable in treacherous terrain. This watch features a captivating green sunray dial that changes its expression with the angle of view, and highly visible Lumibrite markers and hands. It includes a unique oversized screw-down crown at 3 o’clock with a built-in crown guard, and a second crown at 4 o’clock that operates an inner rotating bezel for compass bearings. Powered by Seiko’s in-house automatic movement, caliber 6R35, it offers a 70-hour power reserve, hacking seconds, hand-winding capability, and quick date correction. The watch also boasts magnetic resistance, Seiko’s ‘Diashock’ shock protection, and an ultra-scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. The highly polished 200m water-resistant case has a glass exhibition caseback showcasing the movement and is complemented by a luxurious leather strap that develops a beautiful patina over time, fastened with a stainless steel Seiko-branded folding deployant buckle. Prospex, a fusion of 'Professional' and 'Specifications', signifies high performance. This model is part of the Land collection, designed for adventure seekers on land.
This guide is for adventurers and watch enthusiasts looking to understand the Seiko Prospex Alpinist with a leather strap. The watch offers reliable timekeeping and functionality in challenging environments, with a focus on durability and legibility. However, its complex features may require some familiarization. This guide will cover the watch's key features, usage, care, and troubleshooting.
All features
Material
Leather
Series
Prospex
Model Part Number
SPB121J1
Brand
Seiko
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How do I wind the watch?
Unscrew the crown and turn it clockwise.
How often should I have the watch serviced?
It is recommended to have the watch serviced every 3-5 years.
Is the leather strap water-resistant?
The leather strap is not water-resistant and should be kept dry.
What is the purpose of the inner rotating bezel?
The inner rotating bezel is used for compass bearings to aid in navigation.
How do I set the date?
Pull out the crown to the first position and rotate it to change the date.
What is the power reserve of the watch?
The watch has a 70-hour power reserve.
What kind of crystal does the watch have?
The watch has an ultra-scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating.
Troubleshooting
Watch is not keeping accurate time.
Ensure the watch is fully wound or worn regularly to maintain power reserve. If the problem persists, the watch may need servicing.
The date is not changing correctly.
Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 3 AM. If the problem persists, consult a watchmaker.
The bezel is difficult to rotate.
Check for any obstructions. If it persists, have the watch serviced.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Durable design suitable for outdoor activities.
Excellent legibility with Lumibrite markers and hands.
Long power reserve of 70 hours.
Sapphire crystal for scratch resistance.
Distinctive design with a rotating compass bezel.
Cons
Leather strap requires regular care and maintenance.
The watch may be too large for some wrists.
Setting the inner rotating bezel can be initially complex.
The leather strap may not be suitable for all activities.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setting the Time and Date: Unscrew the crown at 3 o’clock, pull it out to the first position to set the date, and the second position to set the time. Push the crown back in and screw it down to secure.
Using the Compass Bezel: Use the crown at 4 o’clock to rotate the inner bezel. Align the bezel with the sun to determine directions.
Winding: The watch can be wound manually by turning the crown clockwise when it is unscrewed and in the closed position.
Care: Avoid exposing the leather strap to excessive moisture or direct sunlight. Clean the watch case with a soft cloth. Have the watch serviced regularly, typically every 3-5 years, to maintain its performance.