Seiko Upgrades Selection S Chronographs with Sapphire Crystals and Solar Movement

Seiko has expanded its Selection S Series with four new chronograph references: the SBPY181 (brown dial), SBPY183 (blue dial), SBPY185 (black dial), and SBPY187 (all-black hard coating). These models represent a significant technical refresh of the S Series catalog, upgrading to higher-tier materials and specifications that position them firmly in the entry-to-mid-range segment.

Technical Specifications and Design

The new chronographs share a standardized 42.2 mm stainless steel case with a 12.2 mm thickness and 48.3 mm lug-to-lug distance, maintaining a classic chronograph profile. The core hardware is the Seiko V175 solar-quartz caliber, which delivers impressive accuracy of ±15 seconds per month and provides users with a six-month power reserve on a full charge.

The movement features a 60-minute chronograph with 1/5-second increments, a 24-hour sub-dial, and a date display positioned at the 4:30 mark. This configuration offers practical functionality for everyday timing needs while maintaining a clean dial layout.

Sapphire Crystal Upgrade

One of the most notable improvements is the inclusion of sapphire crystals with "super clear" anti-reflective coating across all four models. This upgrade is particularly significant as sapphire crystals are typically reserved for Seiko's more expensive Prospex lines. The enhanced visibility provided by the anti-reflective coating makes these watches more practical for various lighting conditions, from bright outdoor environments to low-light indoor settings.

The Premium SBPY187 Variant

The SBPY187 stands out as the most premium model in this series, featuring a full black hard coating on both the case and bracelet. This coating not only provides the distinctive all-black aesthetic but also offers increased surface scratch resistance, making it more durable for daily wear. The hard coating technology represents Seiko's commitment to combining style with practical durability.

Durability and Functionality

All four models are JIS Type 1 antimagnetic resistant, protecting the movement from everyday magnetic interference that can affect accuracy. The watches also feature LumiBrite for low-light indexing, ensuring excellent legibility in dark conditions. These practical features make the watches suitable for both formal and casual settings.

Market Positioning and Availability

While these units are mechanically identical to the earlier SBPY167 model, they feature new dial textures and updated availability for the 2026 season. The refresh appears to be Seiko's strategy to modernize the Selection S Series while maintaining the core functionality that made the original models popular.

Pricing hasn't been disclosed as of writing, but the watches will be available starting March 26 this year. The combination of solar power, sapphire crystals, and the V175 movement suggests these models will be competitively positioned in the entry-to-mid-range market segment.

Target Audience

These chronographs are designed for watch enthusiasts seeking reliable, feature-rich timepieces without venturing into luxury pricing territory. The solar movement eliminates the need for battery changes, while the sapphire crystal provides scratch resistance typically found in more expensive watches. The variety of dial colors and the all-black option cater to different style preferences, from classic to contemporary.

The Seiko Selection S Series refresh demonstrates the brand's ability to incorporate premium features into accessible price points, making quality chronographs available to a broader audience of watch enthusiasts.