From the Desk of Evolution Watches: Why The Seiko 5 Will Always Matter to Me
I would like to believe that every watch enthusiast remembers their first automatic timepiece, and the rest of the world remembers the first time they came into contact with mechanical timepieces. For myself, along with countless collectors around the globe, that first tangible experience came in the form of the reliability and charm of the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels.
It wasn’t about owning the contending luxury watch. It wasn’t status and it definitely was not about owning a timepiece with ostentatious design. The excitement of my purchase came with strapping the Seiko on my wrist, a timepiece that ticks with life — not powered by batteries, but through movement, tradition, and craftsmanship.
That ‘caption’ describes the essence of watches for many and the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels isn’t just another time piece in my collection, it’s the reason I fell in love with horology and aided in creating Evolution Watches.
The Story Behind The Seiko 5 Series
Revolutionary does not come close to the word that describes the vision behind the Seiko 5 Series: to design a robust, modern, and affordable automatic timepiece that is programmed to last. First introduced in 1963, Seiko made their dreams a reality.
What made it special was also its most simple trait made into a formula with five core promises that till this day define the Seiko 5 legacy:
“5” in Seiko 5 signify:
Movement: Automatic
Display: Day-Date
Water resistance
Crown: 4 o’clock recessed
Bracelet and case: rugged
This was not a mere marketing gimmick. It was Seiko’s approach of saying we will make automatic watches at a price everyone can afford. No compromise on features. No cutting corners on durability. Just honest watch making you can trust.
Reasons why the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels is still relevant today.
Decades later and the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels remains cherished in the watch industry. Here’s a few of the reasons why it continues to win the hearts and wrists of people from all over the globe.
Movement: In-House Seiko 7S26
The beating heart of the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels is its 7S26 movement; an automatic, self-winding engine that comes with 21 jewels and has stood the test of time and proven to be nearly indestructible.
- Self-winding, Automatic
- 21 Jewels
- 21,600 vibrations per hour
- Power reserve ~40 hours
The 7S26 may lack modern features such as hacking and manual winding, but it more than makes up for it with its toughness and low-maintenance reliability. The most various Seiko 5 watches have been functioning well for many years with little servicing.
Design that is Understated, Yet Timeless
Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels watches have sporty, military-inspired styles, as well as plain stainless-steel dress models. This means that it fits seamlessly into any lifestyle.
- Large, clean dials that are easy to read
- 3 o’clock day-date window
- Luminescent hands and markers for visibility
- Comfy sizing, 37mm to 42mm is standard
- Fits casual, office, and even outdoor attire
Its broad base makes it a perfect watch for daily use. The watch never tries too hard, yet is always reliable and there when you need it.
Value for Your Money, Exceptional
The price-to-performance ratio of the Seiko 5 Automatic is the strongest selling point. Automatic movements and solid construction are exceptionally fight to come by at this price, which makes this watch special.
To some collectors, this is the ultimate “starter watch,” and to others, no matter how much their taste changes, they will always consider this a piece that remains in the collection.
Built to Last
With a shatter resistance more than that of a curved mineral glass, the Hardlex crystal from Seiko is famous for a reason. The retractable crown and steel case further enhance the durability as they protect from everyday hits and scratches. but sapphire glass is better and more expensive.
Depending on the model, the watch offers 30m to 100m worth of water resistant, allowing for even more practicality. This makes the watch suitable for almost everything.
A Cult Classic with Collector Appeal
Along with being an entry-level self-winding mechanical, the Seiko 5 holds rich history and is deeply revered. The discontinued models that are loved by collectors, have surging prices in the secondhand tome.
In addition, many consider the Seiko 5 a starter for modding – customizing distinctive pieces by replacing the existing bezels, dials, and hands.
Best Alternatives to the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels
If you love what the Seiko 5 offers but want to explore other great options, here are four alternatives worth considering.
- Orient Bambino
- Elegant dress watch style
- In-house automatic movement
- Domed crystal for vintage flair
- Incredible value under $200
Perfect for those who prefer a cleaner, more formal look.
- Citizen NH8350 or Promaster Automatic
- NH8350: Classic dress design with day-date
- Promaster: Rugged dive watch styling
- Reliable Miyota automatic movements
- Solid build quality
Great for those who appreciate Citizen’s legacy of reliability.
- Timex Marlin Automatic
- Vintage-inspired design
- Slim, elegant case
- Affordable mechanical option
Ideal for lovers of retro styling and minimalist design.
- Evolution Watch with NH35 Movement
- Modern build quality
- Reliable NH35 automatic movement
- Custom designs and finishing
- A fresh alternative from a microbrand perspective
Perfect for those seeking something independent, robust, and uniquely styled.
Final Thoughts: Why the Seiko 5 Still Inspires Me
As a watchmaker and founder of Evolution Watches, the Seiko 5 will always hold a special place in my heart.
It represents everything I admire in watchmaking:
- Honest craftsmanship
- Timeless design
- Reliability over hype
- And most importantly — accessibility
Great watches don’t have to cost thousands of dollars. They have to feel right on your wrist. They have to be your companion through life’s little moments.
That’s exactly what the Seiko 5 Automatic 21 Jewels has done for generations of watch lovers.
The Watch That Started It All
If you’re new to automatic watches — this is still one of the best places to start.
If you’re a seasoned collector — this is the watch that reminds you where your journey began.
And if you’re like me — this is the watch that will always have a home in your collection.
Do you own a Seiko 5?
I’d love to hear your story. Share your memories and experiences in the comments below.
And if you’re ready to explore your next timepiece, I invite you to discover what we’re building at Evolution Watches — watches inspired by icons like the Seiko 5 but designed for today.
