In 1959 Seiko set out to create a watch meant for adventure. The result was the “Seiko Laurel Alpinist” which is regarded as the brand’s first true sports watch, featuring various innovations like a screwed case back to prevent dust, dirt, and sand from getting into the movement. In 2021 Seiko paid tribute to this watch for their 150th anniversary with a series of modern sports watches inspired by the original’s unique design.

Featuring a 38mm case with 200m of water resistance, the new Prospex 1959 Alpinist Modern Re-Interpretation balances elegance and vintage style, with sporty specs and ruggedness. Beveled edges and a mix of brushed and polished surfaces give the Alpinist a refined look, while a sapphire crystal with internal anti-reflective coating and screw-down crown keeps it tough. The dials are pure class with applied markers, featuring distinctive “mountain” shaped markers at cardinal points, sunburst finish, and a subtly contrasting ring around their centers.

Powering the Prospex 1959 Alpinist Modern Re-Interpretations is Seiko’s 6R35 automatic movement. A reliable workhorse movement, the 6R35 features 24-jewels, date, hacking seconds, hand-winding, a 70-hour power reserve, and a frequency of 21,600 bph. The 70-hour power reserve is a standout feature, allowing the watch to be off-wrist for a couple of days without stopping.