From Seiko's extensive lineup, we've selected five models recommended for men in their 40s. They feature a design that embodies the sincerity of Japanese-made watches, high practicality, and a dignified appearance that's perfect for men in their 40s. The selection focuses on new models released in 2024 and 2025.
Text by Tsubasa Nojima
[Article published on January 29, 2025]
Introducing Seiko's masterpieces that combine integrity and style
In your 40s, you are increasingly entrusted with important responsibilities at work, and in your private life, your lifestyle changes dramatically, with marriage, child-rearing, and the discovery of new hobbies. The way you are perceived by others will naturally change. Now, more than ever, is a good time to take another look at watches.
However, it's true that choosing a watch can suddenly become difficult when you're conscious of how others see you. Is the design appropriate for the occasion? Will it give off a bad impression to coworkers or business partners? Does it have a luxurious feel appropriate for your age?... The worries are endless. In these circumstances, we recommend Seiko, Japan's proud watch brand.
Seiko offers a wide range of watches, from elegant dress watches to authentic sports watches, allowing you to choose the perfect watch for your occasion and preferences. There are many high-end models that will satisfy even men in their 40s, and with their Japanese-made designs and high reliability, they are the perfect companions for the rest of your life. Here, we'll introduce five models from the lineup.
King Seiko "KS1969" Ref.SDKA017
This model follows the design of the 45KCM, which was released in 1969. The elegantly curved case houses the slim automatic movement, Cal. 6L35. Automatic (Cal. 6L35). 26 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 45 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.4 mm, thickness 9.9 mm). Water resistant to 5 bar. Price: 396,000 yen (tax included).
The KS1969 is the current model that inherits the design of the King Seiko 45KCM, which was launched in 1969. Equipped with a high-beat manual-winding movement that vibrates at 10 vibrations per second, the 45KCM is a milestone that influenced subsequent King Seiko designs by adopting a case composed of elegantly rounded curves, in contrast to the straight-line cases of previous models.
The KS1969 retains that design while adding a modern update. The silver dial features a newly developed, delicately embossed pattern inspired by the contemporary cityscape of Tokyo, giving it a modern impression. The faceted indexes and hour and minute hands sparkle by reflecting a small amount of light, ensuring high visibility. The index at 12 o'clock features the iconic cut of an arrow feather motif.
This model is equipped with Seiko's thin automatic movement, Cal. 6L35, and the case itself is kept to a thickness of just 9.9mm. The lines, which are inherited from the original and make extensive use of curves but still have a sense of sharpness, achieve a coexistence of softness and a slight sense of tension.
The stainless steel bracelet is a newly developed 13-link type. The alternating combination of polished and hairline finishes creates a dynamic design. Another attractive feature is that the links themselves are short, making for a supple fit.
Seiko Astron "Nexter GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph" Ref. SBXC177
This highly convenient model features GPS radio wave reception and solar power generation. It also boasts a stylish design typical of the Nexter series. GPS solar (Cal. 5X83). Approximately six months of operation on a full charge (approximately two years in power save mode). Ti case (diameter 44.1mm, thickness 14.4mm). 10 bar water resistance. Price: 352,000 yen (tax included).
The world's first commercially available quartz watch, the Quartz Astron, was released by Seiko in 1969 and is a historic masterpiece that brought about a major revolution in wristwatches that followed. The Seiko Astron, which inherits the name, combines sophisticated styling and functionality and is developed as a brand that symbolizes Seiko's cutting-edge spirit.
The Nexter GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph is a high-end model in the stylishly designed Nexter series. It features a GPS radio wave reception function that allows accurate timekeeping anywhere in the world. The solar-powered function eliminates the need for periodic battery changes, making it essentially maintenance-free.
The sporty dial, typical of a chronograph, is finished in a modern, three-dimensional design with a horizontal pattern stamped on it. The thick, clear indexes and hour and minute hands provide simple yet excellent visibility. The bezel, with its graduations up to 60, is set with sapphire crystal, allowing you to enjoy its elegant luster.
The sharp case, a symbol of the Nexter series, is made of lightweight, corrosion-resistant titanium. The bold, hairline-based polishing adds a dynamic feel. The seamless transition to the bracelet also contributes to an improved wearing comfort.
Seiko Presage "Classic Series" Ref. SART011
This model features a dial made with lacquer, a traditional Japanese craft. The dial design, modeled after a pocket watch, gives it a classic impression. Automatic movement (Cal. 6R5H). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40.2 mm, thickness 12.1 mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 237,600 yen (tax included).
This lacquer dial model is part of the Presage Craftsmanship lineup. The black dial is created by applying multiple coats of lacquer and polishing it to a glossy, mirror-like finish. The design, featuring Roman numeral indexes and an inset dial at the 6 o'clock position, pays homage to the Timekeeper, a pocket watch that symbolizes the dawn of Seiko. This model recreates that classic design by adding a 24-hour display to the inset dial.
The indexes, hands, logo, etc. are all unified in a matte gold color, and the contrast with the glossy lacquer dial enhances elegance and visibility. The domed sapphire crystal is also a feature, giving the watch a vintage feel.
The round case, reminiscent of a pocket watch, is a modern size with a diameter of approximately 40mm. Its moderate presence will satisfy the owner's desire to own it. The conical crown not only has a classic look, but is also easy to grip with the fingers, leading to high operability.
The movement is the automatic Cal. 6R5H, which has a long power reserve of approximately 72 hours. The movement of the rotor and balance can be seen through the see-through case back.
Seiko Presage "Classic Series Craftsmanship Arita Ware Unglazed Dial Limited Edition" Ref. SARX127
This limited edition model is the first Presage watch to feature an unglazed Arita porcelain dial. The diamond pattern stands out against the matte dial, allowing you to enjoy the texture of the Arita porcelain material itself. Automatic movement (Cal. 6R51). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 40.6mm, thickness 12.5mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Limited to 1200 pieces worldwide (300 in Japan). Price: 264,000 yen (tax included).
Presage Craftsmanship is known for its attractive dials that incorporate traditional Japanese craftsmanship. This new model, released in 2025, features an Arita porcelain dial. Arita porcelain is Japan's first porcelain, with a history spanning over 400 years. While Presage has previously produced models with Arita porcelain dials, the dial on this model is crafted using the unglazed technique, which has recently been established as a new form of expression.
While typical Arita ware is finished with a glossy texture by applying a glaze and firing it, unglazed ware is literally not glazed, achieving the matte, warm texture and sharp shape inherent to the Arita ware material.
The dial features a modern arrangement of a diamond-shaped pattern, an auspicious motif that symbolizes prosperity of descendants and good health, and the unglazed finish allows for a matte finish and a clear pattern to be enjoyed. The classic case design, including the round case and slender lugs, is also a distinctive feature. The calf leather used for the strap is produced by a tanner certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG), which aims for sustainable leather production.
The see-through back allows you to see the automatic movement, Cal. 6R51, which boasts a long power reserve of approximately 72 hours.
Seiko Prospex "Marinemaster Professional" Ref.SBDX067
This limited edition model commemorates the 60th anniversary of the birth of Seiko's diver's watch. Its appeal lies in its deep-sea-inspired dial and robust case construction. Automatic movement (Cal. 8L45). 35 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Titanium case (45.4mm diameter, 16mm thick). Water resistant to 600m. Limited to 600 pieces worldwide (200 of which are in Japan). Price: 715,000 yen (tax included).
Seiko released the first domestically produced diver's watch in 1965. The company has since developed numerous unique technologies and increased its presence in the diver's watch field. This model is a reconstruction of the design of the diver's watch that was released in 1968, boasting a high beat of 10 vibrations per second and capable of 300m air diving, using modern technology.
The embossed dial, inspired by the mysterious world of the deep sea, is polished after being coated with a clear coating to create a sense of depth and luster. The large indexes and hands are generously coated with luminous paint, making it possible to see the time even in the dark underwater world. A date display is located at 3 o'clock, ensuring functionality for everyday use.
The unidirectional rotating bezel is fitted with a stainless steel insert with a DLC coating for increased scratch resistance. Furthermore, this model boasts 600m of water resistance for saturation diving and features a newly developed case structure. This allows the screws previously located on the surface of the case to be moved to the back, giving it a more refined appearance. Newly developed bezel retaining parts improve the bezel's ease of disassembly and aesthetic appeal. Like previous models, the highly airtight construction of the middle case and case back makes it suitable for saturation diving, but also eliminates the need for a helium escape valve.
The movement is Seiko's high-end automatic movement, Cal. 8L45.
