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| Seiko’s new 5 Sports SKX HDB004 and HDB005 finally go on sale globally |
The wait is over for Seiko fans who've been eyeing the brand's latest affordable automatics. Last month, Seiko added two brand-new affordable automatics to its enormous 5 Sports SKX collection. At the time, we were told the duo would go on sale globally sometime in October. Well, October is here, and the Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB004 and HDB005 are officially available to buy in the US, UK, Europe, India, and Australia.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Design
The two watches bring a familiar SKX-inspired silhouette together with slightly dressier color combinations. The HDB004, dubbed "Formal White," pairs a crisp white dial with a black bezel and yellow gold-colored hands, markers, and bezel accents. The "Tweed Green" HDB005 is more visually appealing, featuring a deep green dial and matching bezel, complemented by rose gold-tone hands and markers.
Interestingly, the new models draw inspiration from the older SNZH design, giving that less-celebrated corner of Seiko's back catalog another chance in the spotlight. They retain the familiar sporty look of the SKX family, but these aren't true divers. They're primarily aimed at general consumers looking for their first versatile mechanical watch without spending a fortune.
Specifications and Features
Both models feature 42.5mm stainless steel cases that measure 14.2mm thick and 46mm from lug to lug. There's a curved Hardlex crystal up front, surrounded by a unidirectional rotating bezel, while LumiBrite-filled hands and markers keep things visible in the dark.
On the inside, the HDB004 and HDB005 are powered by Seiko's tried-and-tested 4R36 automatic movement, which offers manual winding, hacking, a day-date display, 24 jewels, and around 41 hours of power reserve. You also get a see-through case back on both models that lets you see the mechanical movement in action.
For those interested in the green dial variant, you can check out the official product page for the HDB005 to see more detailed images and specifications. Those in India can find local availability details through the Seiko India product listing, while UK customers can explore the white dial version on the Seiko UK website. European buyers can also check availability through the Seiko Boutique Europe page.
Water Resistance and Practicality
As mentioned earlier, these aren't professional divers and, as such, are rated for 100 meters of water resistance instead of the usual 200-meter resistance that we normally see on a dive watch. A three-fold bracelet clasp with a secure lock and a screw-down caseback round out the package.
Pricing and Availability
The new Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB004 and HDB005 are priced at $400 / £340 / €400 / ₹45,000 / AUD 650 and are now available from Seiko Boutiques and authorized retailers.
For anyone looking to get into mechanical watches without breaking the bank, these new additions to the Seiko 5 Sports lineup offer a compelling combination of classic styling, reliable movement, and accessible pricing. Whether you prefer the clean look of the Formal White or the richer tones of the Tweed Green, there's something here for most tastes.
