Earlier this year, Seiko launched three new Alpinist models under its Prospex line, its line of higher-end professional tool watches. Available in three different colors, the reissue models largely retained the classic design of its SARB017 predecessor, with rotating inner bezels that can be used as a compass, a second crown at 4 o’clock to manipulate it, and the signature cathedral hands. Now, hoping to appeal to an even wider market, the Japanese watchmaker has launched another three models, which enthusiasts have dubbed the “mini Alpinist.”
At first glance, the biggest difference between the two ranges is the lack of the rotating inner bezel of the latest release, replaced instead by a regular seconds track, with the second, off-center crown removed as well. The changes mean that the timepiece can be slightly more streamlined, now boasting a 38mm case instead of the regular 39.5mm size. Its thickness also reduced from 13.2mm to just 12.9mm, steering it more towards a dress watch instead of a tool watch. Much like the earlier models of this year though, it carries the same modern caliber 6R34, a 24-jewel automatic movement running at 3Hz and equipped with a 70-hour power reserve.