One of the biggest releases of 2016, at least in terms of response and overall adoration, was without a doubt the Seiko SRP77X “Turtle” series. We were one of the first to discover this revival, which is of course based on the iconic 6309 dive watch produced by Seiko from 1976 to 1988. When the series initially launched, there were four distinct models—the SRP773, 775, 777, and 779. Seiko has since expanded on the collection, releasing a handful of really cool limited edition models. The two most recent additions are the SRPB01K1, a green-dialed Asian market watch limited to 3,500 pieces, and the SRPB11 “Blue Lagoon,” a blue companion limited to 6,000 pieces and available worldwide next month. Both take a more ornate approach to the line than those previously released, but don’t stray too far from its tool-watch DNA.
It’s been about a year since we first reviewed the “Turtle.” To celebrate this upcoming anniversary, we went into our archives and pulled together three articles highlighting this great watch and its history. Enjoy!