Seiko Prospex HBC005 and HBB001: A Duo of Divers in Seiko Blue and Silver
Celebrating Seiko's 145th Anniversary with Signature Blue Colour
We know that Seiko loves to celebrate anniversaries, which often results in fairly attractive limited edition models. This year, the brand is celebrating the 145th anniversary of its creation. In 1881, Kintaro Hattori opened a shop known as "K. Hattori" in Tokyo's Ginza district, beginning what would evolve into today's Seiko. He then went on to produce Japan's first wristwatch in 1913, the now-famous Laurel.
Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005
Both of these new releases by Seiko are based on existing models, starting with a new, bright variation of the 1965 Heritage Diver, a watch directly modelled after Seiko's first-ever dive watch, the 62MAS. Today's limited edition relies on the update done by the Japanese brand in 2024, which included slightly reduced dimensions, now at 40mm by 13mm, a shorter 46.4mm profile, a water-resistance rated at 300m and a more refined execution.
The new HBC005 retains a case and bracelet made of steel with super-hard coating, but now uses a bezel with an aluminium insert in Seiko Blue. The dial is the second evolution. Its lightly brushed base is presented in silvery-white with embossed, luminous raised hour markers and, to complement the bezel, a blue seconds hand. Inside the case is the modern calibre 6R55 with 3 days of power reserve.
The Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 is worn on a classic 3-link steel bracelet that benefits from the updated clasp introduced on the SPB511 Limited Edition from last year. It now features a micro-adjustment system that allows for a 15mm range, easily extended or shortened in six 2.5mm increments by pressing the side buttons. This version is limited to 4,000 pieces and priced at EUR 1,500.
Prospex Samurai HBB001
The second model, honouring Seiko Blue and part of Seiko's 145th anniversary collection, is based on the emblematic Samurai, a watch known as a staple in the brand's portfolio. As the updated Samurai platform of 2024, it comes in a more compact case of 41.7mm (thickness 12.3, lug-to-lug 49.5mm) that's not only more wearable but also fairly different from older generations of Samurai. But as its name indicates, it is still angular and sharp.
A capable diver with 200m water-resistance, it benefits here from a new, two-tone aluminium bezel insert rendered in silver tone for the 0-to-15-minute scale and in Seiko Blue for the rest. The dial is another evolution for this Samurai HBB001, which now features a silver brushed dial (darker than the model above) with the signature pointy embossed markers and, matching the bezel, a blue-coloured seconds hand. Inside is the tried-and-tested calibre 4R35, an entry-level automatic engine that beats at 3Hz and stores about 40h of power reserve.
Comparison Table
| Model | Case Size | Movement | Water Resistance | Power Reserve | Limited Edition | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 | 40mm x 13mm | 6R55 | 300m | 72 hours | 4,000 pieces | EUR 1,500 |
| Samurai HBB001 | 41.7mm x 12.3mm | 4R35 | 200m | 41 hours | 9,999 pieces | EUR 650 |
Availability
Both models will be available worldwide from June 2026. The 1965 Heritage Diver HBC005 is limited to 4,000 pieces at EUR 1,500, while the Samurai HBB001 is limited to 9,999 pieces at EUR 650.
FAQ
Q: What is Seiko Blue?
A: Seiko Blue is a signature colour theme introduced during the 1960s, used across various Seiko collections to create distinctive, recognizable designs.
Q: How do these compare to previous Prospex models?
A: Both watches feature updated 2024 platforms with improved dimensions, movements, and bracelet clasps with micro-adjustment systems.
Q: Which model offers better value?
A: The Samurai HBB001 at EUR 650 offers excellent entry-level dive watch value, while the 1965 Heritage Diver at EUR 1,500 provides higher-specification diving capabilities with 300m water resistance.
Sources: Monochrome Watches, Seiko Official