Seiko has introduced two new models that promise to catch the attention of enthusiasts: the Seiko 5 Sports Heritage Design Re-creation SRPL03 and SRPL05 (SBSA269 and SBSA271 for the Japanese market).
The two models, which will be available from July 6 2024, are limited to 9,999 pieces each worldwide and are inspired by the legendary Seiko 5126-8090, known as “Kamen Rider” for its appearance in the famous Japanese TV series.
The stainless steel case measures 38.5 mm in diameter, 12.4 mm in thickness, and has a lug-to-lug length of 44.8 mm, with a curved Hardlex crystal and a rotating bezel with a silver metal insert.
Both models come with a single-link stainless steel bracelet, brushed on the top and equipped with a triple-folding clasp with a button. Additionally, each watch comes with an extra black leather rally strap, adding a sporty and retro touch.
Each watch is individually numbered and comes in a special box that pays homage to the original model from the ’60s.
Technical Specifications
| Case | Stainless steel, 38.5 mm in diameter, 12.4 mm in thickness, 44.8 mm in length |
| Crystal | Curved Hardlex |
| Dial | Brushed silver (SRPL03) or matte black (SRPL05) with LumiBrite on hands and indices |
| Movement | Automatic caliber 4R36, 24 jewels, 21,600 vibrations/hour, 41-hour power reserve, manual winding and hacking functions |
| Bracelet | Single-link brushed steel with triple-folding clasp with button, additional black leather rally strap |
| Water Resistance | 10 bar (100 m) |
| Weight | 142 g |
| Price | 460 euros / 400 pounds / 59,400 yen |
| Availability | July 2024 (Limited Edition of 9,999 pieces worldwide, 999 for the Japanese market) |
The Original Seiko 5 Sports from 1968
The 5126-8090 “Kamen Rider” was one of the first models of the Seiko 5 Sports series introduced in 1968. In this image, taken from Seiko Sales of June 1968, you can see the two models with case code 5126-8090 in their original configuration.
The following images are from the second volume of the 1968 Seiko catalog.
The nickname “Kamen Rider” originates from the Seiko 5126-8090 worn by Takeshi Hongo in the Japanese TV series Kamen Rider in 1971.
Another famous Seiko 5126-8090 appears on Colonel Goro Gondo’s wrist in the 1989 film “Godzilla vs. Biollante”.
