Watch writer Shinichi Sato introduces a new model with a rubber strap, added to the "Series Eight" diver's watch design, as a noteworthy release for 2026. Previously only available with a bracelet, a new rubber strap design is now available. The new Ref. NB6060-07A features a marine-inspired white and calm blue two-tone color scheme with refreshing silver accents, resulting in a chic finish.
Text by Shinichi Sato
[Article published on January 26, 2026]
A new model with a rubber strap has been added to the "Series 8" collection.
Among the new watches announced in 2026, writer Shinichi Sato is particularly interested in the Ref.NB6060-07A, a rubber strap model added to the sporty 20 ATM water-resistant diver's watch design within the "Series Eight." Previously only available with a bracelet, a new rubber strap design has now been made available. This time, we will delve deeper into the appeal of this model.
Regarding Series 8, please see the article that delves deeper into the brand's new models released this year (https://www.webchronos.net/features/151826/I've reviewed it in the section below, so readers who are interested should check it out.
Series 8, a diver's watch design.
The Series 8 is characterized by its edgy, sporty design, which is one of the reasons for its popularity. The Series 8 diver's watch design featured here focuses on an even sportier aesthetic and debuted in 2024 with increased water resistance to 20 atmospheres.
Automatic winding (cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42.6mm, thickness 11.7mm). Water resistant to 20 bar. 5,005,000 yen (tax included).
The crown at the 2 o'clock position is used to operate the inner rotating bezel. This rotating bezel allows for minute-by-minute measurements. The bezel's presence is interesting not only for its functionality, but also because it adds a unique accent to the modern Series 8 design, setting it apart from typical diver's watches with outer bezels.
The case diameter is 42.6mm, which is slightly larger than average for a diver's watch. However, my impression after handling the actual watch is that it feels a bit more compact than the numbers suggest. At 11.7mm thick, it's remarkably thin for a 20 ATM water-resistant watch, creating a sporty yet elegant style.
A dial design incorporating a marine theme.
The newly announced Ref.NB6060-07A, featuring a rubber strap, boasts a refreshing design with a white and blue two-tone color scheme accented with silver. This design incorporates a marine theme and perfectly complements the sporty styling.
The dial features a pattern that fuses the uniquely Japanese Ichimatsu pattern with a design inspired by the city's skyscrapers. The random bumps and grooves that create shadows when light hits them are a signature feature of the Series 8. The inner rotating bezel, which displays the minutes, is blue up to the 15-minute mark, and silver from there onwards. Upon closer inspection, a record-like pattern is applied to the inner bezel, which reduces reflection and ensures visibility while creating a contrast in appearance with the dial.
The indices, hour and minute hands, and date window feature a blue outer ring and a white inner ring, creating a bright and refreshing overall look by minimizing the use of blue. The crowns at the 2 and 3 o'clock positions are both a glossy blue, adding a nice accent.
Newly prepared rubber strap
Furthermore, the standout feature of this model is the rubber strap. The blue color used in the dial design is also incorporated into the strap, highlighting the sporty feel of this timepiece.
What's particularly noteworthy is the back of the rubber strap, which features the same textured pattern as the dial. This subtle detail, visible only to the owner, is quite interesting. Furthermore, I anticipate that it will contribute to improved comfort by preventing stuffiness and enhancing the strap's grip and stability.
Although I only wore them for a short time, the smooth and soft rubber strap felt great against my skin, and combined with the low center of gravity of the head, the balance was excellent when wearing them. I'm curious to see how this strap design will perform when worn for extended periods in hot weather.
This is a conventional model with a bracelet. The Series 8's signature flat, straight, and edgy design is incorporated into the bracelet as well, resulting in a very appealing finish. Automatic movement (cal. 9051). 24 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. Stainless steel case (42.6mm diameter, 11.7mm thickness). 20 ATM water resistance. 198,000 yen (tax included).
A chic finish that would be suitable for business settings.
The newly announced Ref.NB6060-07A features a marine-inspired two-tone color scheme, with a muted blue finish, giving it an overall chic impression. At 11.7mm, the case thickness is relatively easy to incorporate into long-sleeved outfits, and its volume also makes it stand out when paired with short-sleeved outfits.
I also felt that this model, with its chic color scheme, is well-suited for business settings. It would harmonize beautifully with a navy jacket and white shirt, for example. Furthermore, this model boasts two levels of magnetic resistance, meaning it can maintain its performance even when brought within 1cm of magnetic devices such as laptops and smartphones—devices indispensable in business environments. This is another reason why I recommend it for business use.
We encourage you to check out the new Series 8, which is both sporty and chic, at our stores.
