Seiko’s newest limited‑edition Prospex divers are accented with signature “Seiko Blue”

What’s new

Seiko’s 145th‑year celebration brings two fresh Prospex divers that lean heavily on the company’s historic “Seiko Blue”. The hue appears on the rotating bezel of the Prospex HBB001 and on both the bezel and seconds hand of the Prospex HBC005, giving each model a striking visual cue that ties back to the brand’s 1960s dive heritage.

The HBC005 is the more premium offering. It houses the Caliber 6R55 automatic, a 72‑hour power reserve, and a 300 m (1 000 ft) water‑resistance rating. Its 40 mm stainless‑steel case mirrors the dimensions of Seiko’s first diver from 1965, delivering a compact yet robust presence.

The HBB001, by contrast, steps up to a 41.7 mm case and is driven by the Caliber 4R35 automatic with a 41‑hour reserve. Water resistance is limited to 200 m (660 ft), but the watch costs roughly US $800 less, making it a more accessible entry into the limited‑edition line.

How they compare

Feature	Prospex HBC005	Prospex HBB001
Case size	40 mm × 13 mm	41.7 mm × 12.3 mm
Movement	Caliber 6R55 (24 jewels)	Caliber 4R35 (23 jewels)
Power reserve	~72 h	~41 h
Water resistance	300 m / 1 000 ft	200 m / 660 ft
Crystal	Curved sapphire with AR coating	Hardlex mineral
Lume	LumiBrite on hands, indices, bezel	LumiBrite on hands, indices, bezel
Price (US)	$1 400	$595
Production run	4 000 pcs	9 999 pcs

The HBC005’s sapphire crystal and longer reserve give it a clear edge for serious divers or collectors who value extended wear between wind‑ups. Its 300 m rating also meets most professional dive standards. The HBB001, while offering a larger case and a more playful dual‑tone bezel, settles for a Hardlex crystal and a shallower depth rating, positioning it as a lifestyle piece that can still handle weekend snorkeling.

Both watches share several core Prospex traits: a screw‑down crown, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and the LumiBrite luminescent treatment that remains bright after multiple dives. The limited‑edition engravings on the case backs add a subtle collector’s touch.

Who it’s for

• Serious divers / technical collectors – The HBC005’s 6R55 movement, sapphire crystal, and 300 m water resistance make it suitable for regular dive trips and for those who want a watch that can double as a daily dress piece.
• Entry‑level enthusiasts – The HBB001 provides the iconic Seiko Blue aesthetic at a price that won’t break the bank. Its larger case may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial wrist presence, while the 200 m rating is sufficient for recreational diving and water sports.
• Fans of Seiko’s heritage – Both models reference the 1965 diver’s case design, and the “Seiko Blue” bezel ties the new pieces to a visual language that has been part of the brand for decades.

Pricing and availability

The watches will launch in June across the US, Japan, the UK, Australia, and Europe. Prices vary by region, but the US list looks like this:

• Prospex HBC005 – US $1 400 (limited to 4 000 units)
• Prospex HBB001 – US $595 (limited to 9 999 units)

Other markets follow similar tiered pricing, with Japan pricing at ¥192 500 for the HBC005 and ¥83 600 for the HBB001, the UK at £1 300 and £560 respectively, and Europe at €1 500 and €650.

Bottom line

Seiko’s dual release showcases how a brand can blend historical cues with modern execution. The HBC005 pushes the Prospex line toward a higher‑end, technically focused direction, while the HBB001 keeps the entry point low without sacrificing the signature blue styling. Whether you need a watch for deep dives or simply want a striking blue‑accented piece for everyday wear, the new Prospex divers give you a clear choice.