Seiko 5 Sports Denham Limited Edition

Quick specs Seiko 5 Sports Denham Limited Edition
Price: $ 430 | € 450 | £ 390 | approx. CHF 450
Size: 42.5 mm
Reference:
SRPL35
SBSA281 (Japanese market only) – limited to 2,000 pieces in total

The Seiko 5 Sports Denham Limited Edition is a collaboration between Seiko and the denim brand Denham. So expect some denim with this Seiko model as it combines elements of watchmaking expertise with the design philosophy of denim craftsmanship. The model is limited to 2,000 pieces and has two reference numbers. One for the Japanese market only (SBSA281) and one for the rest of the world (SRPL35).

Let’s take a look at the Sports series by Seiko first. The Seiko 5 Sports collection debuted in 1963, focusing on durable and reliable watches that combined automatic movements with accessible designs. Over the years, it evolved to offer various styles and collaborations, like this collab with Denham. This jeans brand, founded in 2008 in Amsterdam by English jean maker Jason Denham, is renowned for its dedication to innovation in denim. The philosophy “The Truth is in the Details” could align with Seiko’s craftsmanship.

So, Where is the Denim?

This 5 Sports Denham Limited Edition measures 42.5 millimeters in diameter and 13.4 millimeters in thickness. Its lug-to-lug distance of 46.0 millimeters ensures a comfortable fit for most (bigger) wrist sizes. Crafted from stainless steel, the case pairs with a unidirectional rotating bezel featuring different indigo shades to represent denim’s classic color palette. And it looks to be notched like a zipper.

The dial also showcases indigo, highlighted by an inverted equilateral triangle index with scissors at 12 o’clock, incorporating Denham’s logo. A red seconds hand adds contrast, inspired by the iconic rivets found on Denham jeans. The nylon strap is adorned with stitching motifs, further connecting it to denim heritage. Of course, it should have been denim instead of nylon, but it might not be suitable for a watch strap.

The Movement: Seiko 4R36

The 4R36 movement, known for its reliability, is the backbone of this Seiko 5 Sports. The automatic caliber includes manual winding capability and supports a hacking function. This is to set the seconds exactly to the right time.

Developed by Seiko, the 4R36 was introduced as an upgraded version of earlier calibers, incorporating improvements in power reserve and functionality. The movement features a visible finish, adding a decorative element through the see-through case back.

The Seiko 5 Sports Denham Limited Edition Has a Friendly Price

With a price of about 400 to 450, this Seiko 5 Sports Denham Limited Edition is very friendly priced for an automatic. That even comes with a day-date function. Within Seiko’s own line-up, there are plenty of alternatives in the same price range.

Here, the denim theme by Denham adds some blue spice although some real denim on the dial or strap would have been even more denim-ish. And the hardlex crystal has less scratch and shatter resistance than sapphire crystal. But at this price point, one should not complain.