Chrono24 Buyer’s Guide: Seiko 5

Robust, reliable, and affordable: These are the attributes of the Seiko 5 collection, one of the world’s best-selling series of automatic watches. The line has been part of the Japanese watch giant’s lineup since 1963. The collection earned its numerical moniker thanks to five key features that characterize each model. These include an automatic movement, a day/date display, ample water resistance, shock resistance, and a recessed crown guard. Thanks to sporty designs and excellent value for money, Seiko 5 watches are aimed primarily at younger individuals who are looking for a reliable everyday watch. The Seiko 5 collection is divided into the SKX, Field, SNXS, SNKP, and Sports series. What each and every watch has in common is a stainless steel case that houses an automatic in-house movement. The timepieces are also fitted with an in-house synthetic Hardlex crystal. Here, we’re presenting the three most popular Seiko 5 models on Chrono24 in more detail.

The Top Seller – Seiko 5 Sports SNXS79K1

The Seiko 5 Sports SNXS79K1 is the best-selling model from this collection on Chrono24. The watch is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, stylish, and affordable automatic watch. Thanks to its classic design and robust build, it’s ideal as an everyday watch for any occasion.

Seiko 5 Ref. SNXS79K1 Specs

Robust, reliable, affordable – the Seiko 5 Sports SNXS79K1

Design, Function, and Performance

The Seiko 5 Sports SNXS79K1 has a polished stainless steel case with a diameter of around 37 mm. The overall height is 11 mm, while the lug-to-lug is approx. 43 mm. With these modest dimensions, the watch is perfectly proportioned for slimmer and medium-sized wrists. The water resistance of 30 m (3 bar, 98 ft) means that the watch is protected against splashes of water, but is not suited to swimming or diving. The dark gray dial with a sunburst finish is classic and straightforward. The dial is fitted with silver baton indices and obelisque hands that are sufficiently coated with the luminous material developed by Seiko, LumiBrite. This means that the SNXS79K1 is easy to read even in poor lighting. The typical Seiko 5 day/date display is located at the 3 o’clock position. The watch comes standard on a satin-finished three-piece link stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp, ensuring a secure fit on the wrist. Inside the SNXS79K1, you’ll find the proven automatic caliber 7S26. This movement is a true workhorse that is known for its longevity. In this price range, however, you’ll have to do without some of the features that Seiko offers at higher price points. The 72S6 does not have a stop-seconds, nor can it be wound manually using the crown. The balance wheel oscillates at a leisurely 21,600 vph, and the power reserve is around 41 hours. You can view the movement at work through a display case back. As of summer 2024, you could buy a Seiko 5 Sports SNXS79K1 on Chrono24 for an average of $150 in mint condition. This makes the model around 13.5% cheaper than it was two years prior. Despite all the advantages of the SNXS79K1, both its purchase price and market performance indicate that this watch was made to be worn rather than invest in. However, you never know what collectors will be willing to pay for an unworn example in a full set in 20 years’ time.

Seiko 5 SNKP21J1 and SNK063J5 – With an Arabic Dial

42 mm and With an Arabic Dial – the Seiko 5 SNKP21J1

If you’re looking for an exotic Seiko 5, then these two watches are for you. The Seiko 5 SNKP21J1 stands out with its generous 42-mm case and bold dial design. Printed Hindu-Arabic numerals are used to indicate the hours instead of dot or bar indices. Seiko uses this so-called “Arabic Dial” from time to time, including in the third most popular Seiko 5 on Chrono24: the 34-mm SNK063J5. The cases of the SNKP21J1 and SNK063J5 have a satin finishes on the bezel and front, while the sides are polished to a high gloss. With a case diameter of 42 mm, height around 12 mm, and lug-to-lug of 51.5 mm, the former reference is more suitable for solid wrists. The 34-mm SNK063J5, on the other hand, has an overall height of 11.5 mm and more modest lug-to-lug of 39.5 mm. The water resistance of both references is 50 m (5 bar, 164 ft), meaning they can be taken into the pool. Both models are also fitted with a three-piece-link stainless steel bracelet with a secure folding clasp. Like the Seiko 5 Sports SNXS79K1, the caliber 7S26 sets the pace. You can also watch the movement at work through a display case back. Both the Seiko 5 SNKP21J1 and SNK063J5 are manufactured in Japan. This is indicated by the “J” as the second to last digit of the reference number and the “Made in Japan” inscription at the bottom of the dial. At the time of writing (autumn 2024), you could buy the SNKP21J1 in mint condition on Chrono24 for an average of $230. The 34-mm SNK063J5 is available for around $200. The prices of both models have remained stable over the past two years.

Summary

With the Seiko 5 collection, the Japanese giant offers timepieces that are practically unbeatable in terms of value for money. For just a few hundred dollars, you can get your hands on a robust, reliable watch that will last you many years. The watches also boast an in-house caliber, which gives them a certain degree of exclusivity. This is also the case with the three most popular references on Chrono24 we presented here: the SNXS79K1, SNKP21J1, and SNK063J5.