Seiko’s H558-5000, or “Arnie” as it’s more commonly referred to, is one of the few quartz pieces we actively pursue. Introduced in 1982, it was the first ever diver to have an analog and digital display with a chronograph and an alarm. It is a beast of a watch at nearly 46mm including the shroud, and so it seems fitting that it would eventually become synonymous with it’s biggest fan, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Arnie, with a fairly well documented collection of great watches already, rode out most of the 80’s with his favorite Seiko strapped to his wrist. It even saw significant screen time in the movies “Predator” and “Commando.” Considered by collectors to be a fringe member of the “Tuna” family of Seiko divers, an honest, fully working example can be a bit hard to come by these days as they were often worn hard by those for whom it was designed. The shroud is plastic and can become brittle with age, and moisture intrusion or a dead battery left sitting can destroy the movement. But, for those willing to be patient, a great example is certainly worth waiting for. This example from March of ‘84 is just that. The dial is a textured matte black and the hour markers are a clean bright white. It’s framed by a stacked depth meter and minute chapter, and the hour and minute hands have mostly retained their bright polished finish. The digital display is crisp, and all functions are operating correctly, including the alarm, hourly chime, and the incandescent backlight. The bezel clicks smoothly in either direction, and though the insert shows considerable wear, its fairly even and the markings are clearly legible. The original shroud is secured to the case with the original screws and collars, and I’ve carefully repaired developing cracks with an epoxy resin rather than replace it with an aftermarket part. The crown and case back screw down tightly, and the case is crisp and unpolished. It’s completely original, including the beveled hardlex which I carefully hand polished to remove most scratches. We’ve paired it with a replacement Seiko Z-22 flat vent strap for a fit and finish very close to the original. As setting this watch is somewhat involved, we’ve added a link to the instruction manual below. All of the electronic components were carefully disassembled and cleaned and the analog portion was cleaned and fully serviced, along with installing a fresh battery. A fantastic example of an historic Seiko diver, it’s sure to become a fast favorite in any rotation.

Setting Instructions: https://www.manualslib.com/manual/620725/Seiko-H558.html

Seiko Z-22 Flat Vent Black Composite Rubber

Serviced10/18/22

Diameter- 46mm

Lugs-22mm