Is the latest Alpinist worth $1,550?

 

There is no doubt that the freshly released teal, green, and black Alpinists are not just eye-catching watches but also well-made, robust pieces. The finish is impeccable. If there ever was a Japanese-made, Rolex-looking case- this is it. Smooth, low-profile steel bezel and sapphire crystal with cyclops – just perfect. The Oyster-style stainless steel bracelet with deployant clasp looks every bit Swiss in design and execution. The same goes for the dial and hands: the depth and contrast is to the highest standard of horology. Yes, it’s mass-produced, but mass-produced in Japan, using the latest high-tech machinery and techniques. The new Alpinist is fitted with the 6R55 movement. It has a 3-day power reserve and is also made in Japan. The straight-line decoration and gold-plated rotor won’t blow away a serious watch collector, but that’s expected. I was far more interested in the actual timekeeping: from six pieces tested, the “worst” performer ran at +13 seconds per day, and the best at +2 seconds — with an impressively healthy amplitude of 288 degrees. Considering Seiko’s specs for the 6R55 are -15/+25 seconds per day, these results were far better than expected. A small curiosity: the exact same calibre is used in the latest King Seiko line. The green dial model comes on a brown strap, while the other two are on bracelet. The only word of caution concerns the winding crown: it’s small and rather delicate for a 200 m water-resistant watch. If you have large fingers, be very careful when screwing it down — the alignment is precise, and an impatient user will sooner or later cross-thread it. Again, if you have a big wrist and big fingers, the Alpinist may not be the best choice for you — especially if patience isn’t your strong suit. Now, back to the original question: is the new Alpinist worth $1,550? Absolutely yes. Should you pay full retail? Absolutely not. There’s an unspoken rule that newly released watches shouldn’t be discounted — and I’m all for it. However, as a subscriber to this fine newsletter, you are a special customer who deserves a special price. Of course, if you wish to pay full retail, you’re more than welcome to place your order now. But if you’d prefer to chat discreetly about it, simply hit “reply” to this email and I’ll see what I can do for you. All three models are in stock and ready for immediate delivery. Seiko Prospex Alpinist Automatic Green/Leather SPB507J 39.5mm case size. Stainless steel case and brown leather strap. Forest green dial. Sapphire crystal. Date and compass functions. Automatic movement - calibre 6R55. 72 hours power reserve. Water resistance 200 metres.  Boutique price: $1,400

Seiko Prospex Alpinist Automatic Teal/Steel SPB503J 39.5mm case size. Stainless steel case and bracelet. Blue dial. Sapphire crystal. Date and compass functions. Automatic movement - calibre 6R55. 72 hours power reserve. Water resistance 200 metres.  Boutique price: $1,550 Seiko Prospex Alpinist Automatic Black/Steel SPB505J 39.5mm case size. Stainless steel case and bracelet. Black dial. Sapphire crystal. Date and compass functions. Automatic movement - calibre 6R55. 72 hours power reserve. Water resistance 200 metres.  Boutique price: $1,550