When Seiko reissued the 1980s-style “Aliens” Giugiaro watches between 2013 and 2015, collectors were thrilled. But after thoroughly exhausting color combinations on the “Ripley” and “Bishop” watches, where would Seiko go next? They turned to the less well-known 7A28-7A00 SBBJ “Speed Master” series, with angled faces inside a round case.
The “Speed Master” series was designed by Guigiaro for Seiko and was intended for use while riding a motorcycle. Although the dial is centered relative to the strap, it is inclined 5º from flat and rotated 15º from top to make it easier to read while on the right wrist. The case and bracelet were injection-molded plastic, an exotic material for the time in keeping with the high-tech design. The outer fifth of the bezel and first three links are raised, an unusual touch. Inside was Seiko’s 7A28 analog quartz chronograph movement, also used in the “Aliens” series.
The 2016 Spirit SCED reissues are consistent with the previous series, using the simpler 7T12 movement. Unlike the 7A28, this is a 1/5 second chronograph rather than 1/10 and lacks the split-seconds feature (and pusher at 10:00) found on the original. Whereas the original had the crown located at the unusual position of 8:00 relative to the dial, the new version features a recessed crown at the traditional 3:00 position.
| SCED053 | SCED055 | SCED057 | SCED059 | SCED061 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| 1/1,500 | 1/1,500 | 1/1,000 | 1/1,000 | 1/1,000 |
| Stainless Steel Hard Coated | Stainless Steel Hard Coated | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel Hard Coated | Stainless Steel Hard Coated |
| ¥35,000 | ¥35,000 | ¥30,000 | ¥35,000 | ¥35,000 |
Since these were released a few years ago, most are now out of stock. Seiya Japan does have the SCED055 and SCED057 listed as “in-stock” as of January 2019, but these likely won’t last.
The SCED053 (yellow) and SCED055 (red) are quite similar in looks to the original SBBJ007 and SBBJ005, respectively. The major differences, apart from the eliminated pusher and relocated crown, is the use of coated stainless steel construction rather than plastic. If these are like the previous Giugiaro reissues, the watch is quite light weight, with a simple folding clasp.
As before, Seiko created special limited editions for partner retailers in Japan. There is no Tic Tac edition this time, but White Mountaineering returns with their SCED065. This blacked-out watch features a distinctive white design element that reminds me of the famous Breitling Top Time “Racing” models. A new partner, Narifuri, gets the SCED063 with a tasteful grey dial.
| SCED063 | SCED065 |
|---|---|
 |
 |
| 1/300 Narifuri |
1/700 White Mountaineering |
| Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel Hard Coated |
| ¥30,000 | ¥35,000 |
Unlike previous special edition Giugiaro pieces, these are remarkably restrained. In fact, both are more attractive than the regular series! I would pick the SCED065 if I was going to pick up one of these.
Check out the Seiko 7A28 Collector’s Guide from The Springbar!
The angled dial is an interesting feature, and sets these watches apart from the crowd. The basic colors are interesting as well, ranging from slick red and yellow to questionable yellow and purple. But the special editions are great, and would make an excellent purchase if you can find one.
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The 7T12 has a split function, you have to push the reset button to stop the hand and then again to make it restart (accelerated of course).
I did not know that. Thank you!
I own one and I feel the watch is much suited on the left wrist.. I find it complicated to read while it is on my right.