With the recent reissue of the Seiko “Arnie,” a renewed interest in the original has also gained footing. Though always popular with collectors, Arnie’s shrouded beast from ‘Predator’ and ‘Commando’ has become a hot commodity that’s risen sharply in value and fallen off in availability. As much as I enjoy the H558 model, there is still another to consider. Often referred to as the “Baby Arnie,” the H556-5029 is just as capable, equally appealing, and lacking in almost zero ways compared to its much bigger brother. For some, that alone may be an attractive feature. At 39mm, its a full 7mm smaller in diameter, and its case shape, contouring, and lighter weight make it a dream on the wrist. It is functionally identical featuring an analog display with hacking seconds, large luminous plots, and instead of a depth meter, the chapter is marked in tachymetric scaling. Digitally, it offers day and date, alarm with hourly chime, second or local time zone, 1/100th sec. chronograph, and a push button incandescent back light. This example from May of ‘83 is one of the cleanest I’ve encountered. The dial and display are perfect, and the concave bezel insert is flawless. Rather than a “click” style, the bezel is a friction design that can be rotated smoothly in either direction and uses a gasket to hold it in place once set. The crown and case back are both screw down, and each close securely for protection of the internal components. It is completely original right down to the hardlex crystal that bears only a couple of small, light blemishes. The case is unpolished and all of the factory finishes are still crisp and sharply defined. It comes attached to the original “H” link bracelet with PVD hinges, though some moderate, but even wear is visible on the finish of the lower links. The movement has been serviced, and a fresh battery installed. A much leaner, but equally capable companion to the “Arnie,” it’s a great opportunity to join the ranks, and at a fraction of the price. 

Original Seiko Tapered “H” Link with PVD Hinge Stainless Steel Bracelet

Serviced 1/16/22

Diameter- 39mm

Lugs- 20mm