Seiko Prospex X BEAMS Limited SBDX041 "Otoko wa Tsurai yo"

This watch was launched in collaboration with a Japanese retailer to celebrate a cultural icon and movie character from Japan called Torajiro Kuruma (Tora-San played by actor Kiyoshi Atsumi) in the movie series "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" ("It's Tough Being a Man"). The character, Tora-San, throughout the film series wore the original 62mas 6217-8001 in the 60s and the 70s. The watch can actually be seen on some of the movie posters from the time. The fashion company BEAMS collaborated with Seiko to launch this reissue and the result was a truly beautiful execution of a 62MAS with Zaratsu polished surfaces and radial black dial made with the best available materials and with the robust and reliable 8L35 movement. The watch was only sold through BEAMS website and stores and has for a while been sold-out making it a sought after piece by collectors. Pictures do not do justice to the beautiful polished areas, this need to be seen in person to appreciate.

Information:

Reference: SBDX041

Limited Edition: 300 Pieces

Dated: Undated

Strap: Black and khaki silicone straps

Case Size: 40mm x 14.1mm Thickness - Stainless Steel

Lug Width: 20mm

Movement: 8L35 - Automatic

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date

Box and Papers: Both

Crystal: Box shaped Sapphire  

Bracelet size: 7.75”

Condition: Excellent

Case has moderate wear with a couple light marks and a surface level scuff on a single lug. Strap is in great shape with wear on buckle. Dial, hands, and crystal are in perfect shape.

History of Seiko Watches

Seiko's history began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a watch shop in Tokyo. In 1892, he established Seikosha, a factory for producing wall clocks. The company quickly progressed, creating Japan's first wristwatch, the Laurel, in 1913. Despite setbacks like the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, Seiko persevered, launching its first watch under the Seiko brand name in 1924.

The post-World War II era saw Seiko's rapid growth and innovation. They introduced Japan's first automatic wristwatch in 1956 and launched the prestigious Grand Seiko line in 1960. Seiko achieved international recognition for accuracy in 1968, winning a Geneva Observatory competition. 

The company made a name for its divers in 1965 with the introduction of their first professional dive watch, the 62MAS. This was followed by the iconic 6159-7001 in 1968, which was water-resistant to 300 meters. Seiko gained international recognition in 1975 with the release of the 6159-7010, nicknamed the "Tuna Can" due to its distinctive case shape. In 1969, they revolutionized the industry with the Astron, the world's first quartz wristwatch, ushering a new era of watchmaking that would send waves across the industry through the 70s and 80s. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global watchmaking giant, Seiko's history is characterized by resilience, technological advancement, and a commitment to precision.