Seiko’s 5th generation core diver, the SKX was the follow up to the 7002 model, and was introduced in a crossover period in 1996. In fact, the very last 7002 transitional divers of that era even share their 200m depth rating and smaller crystal diameter with their successor. The shift was fairly seamless for most, and the SKX became an instant icon for value driven customers looking to acquire a near bulletproof “tool” beater with an established pedigree. For nearly 23 years, the SKX in its numerous variants served as the doorway across the threshold of mechanical watches for thousands of budding enthusiasts, and remains one of the most popular dive watches ever created. So ubiquitous is this Seiko classic, an entire cottage industry of modding components exists to service the individualized whims of its ever growing community of owners. For me though, nothing beats a hard to find original, and this SKXA55 is exactly that. First available in 2003, the 7S26-02K0 or “Orange Bullet” as it’s come to be known wasn’t particularly well received. It was sold alongside a “Black Bullet” counterpart, and by 2007 both were were phased out. As is often the case, these short lived models develop something of a cult following, and availability generally dries up. Fast forward to today, and getting a “Bullet” in either color is a game of patience and persistence. How it wasn’t wildly successful from the outset is hard to fathom. Since the 6106-7107 (also available on the previous page), orange dialed divers have been a cornerstone of Seiko culture, and in my opinion, the “Bullet” got everything right. The layout is a bright example of balance and coordination. The dial is a pale flat orange that’s easy on the eyes, and its framed by a steeply set chapter in white and cornflower blue. The nickname stems from the shape of the hour markers as each is an outlined luminous plot resembling a small caliber firearm cartridge. The hour and minute hands are shared with the standard SKX, but the sweep is the same polished “lollipop” found on its predecessors, the 7002 and 6309. This example from November of ‘04 is textbook. The case is unpolished with crisp factory finishes, and the bezel insert shows only minor signs of wear. It’s completely original aside from a replacement mineral crystal, and post service, the self winding 7S26 is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with an updated “Tropic” style strap for a comfortable and fitting finish, and we’re sure it will make its way to the top of your rotation faster than a speeding…

CNS Black “Tropic Sport” Style Strap

Serviced 12/29/21

Diameter- 42mm

Lugs- 22mm