The Popular Quirky Nicknames of Various Seiko Models

Seiko Tuna Mods

One of the endearing things about the Seiko mod part culture is the unofficial nicknames fans of the brand have given the watches. This came from the company’s tendency to use reference numbers rather than actual names. Though they might have named certain units, like the Alpinist and the Cocktail Time, many models are still identified with just numbers. 

Some of the more popular names of these watches include the Tuna, Samurai, Ripley, Starfish, and Ashtray. None of these names were ever officially given by the company. Like the Seiko mod part industry, these came from loving enthusiasts who appreciate the brand. 

To help you understand how some of these nicknames came about, we have broken down some of the models they represent. With no further ado, here they are:

The Tuna (or Tuna Can)

This refers to the range of Seiko dive watches known for their unique case design. They all come with a protective outer layer, which necessitates attaching the straps to the bottom of the case. They’re given this name because they bear similar dimensions to a can of tuna. Though many are divided on its looks, this range is incredibly versatile and reliable. 

The Samurai

This particular name confuses everyone, as it bears no resemblance to anything related to Samurai. The hands do not look like katanas and it does not resemble samurai armor in any way. Even the designers of the watch are stumped about its origins, but the name remains. It is one of the most popular and affordable dive watches in the company’s catalog. 

The Ripley

This watch with a design straight out of sci-fi was so named because Ripley (played by Sigourney Weaver) was seen wearing it in the 1986 film, “Aliens.” This model is prized among collectors because it was a collaboration between the manufacturers and the famous automobile designer, Giorgetto Giugiaro. The beauty of this watch is that it is still available today at reasonable prices. 

The Starfish

Well-known for its steel bezels and rider tabs, this diver’s watch is reminiscent of popular models from Breitling and TAG Heuer. This version, however, exaggerates these features in traditional Seiko fashion. The name supposedly comes from the pointed tabs, which vaguely resemble a starfish if you squint hard enough. 

The Ashtray

The Ashtray gets its name from its bezel. While some find this name an insult to the watch’s actual beauty and cool 80s vibe, many understand that this was a reliable diver’s model. Powered by quartz and encased in titanium, this unit is beloved by many divers worldwide.

The Shogun

Like the Samurai, this nickname is lost on many. Many fans attribute it to some unique design elements they claim are distinctly Japanese, while others call it the Shogun to honor its superiority as a dive watch. If you are unaware, a shogun is a name referring to military leaders in feudal Japan. Just one glance at this watch shows that it is a premium dive watch from the beloved brand. 

Final thoughts

These are some of the quirky and unique nicknames given to the Seiko watches. Other models, such as the Arnie, Sea Urchin, Landshark, Spork, Bond, Bottle Cap, Big Boy, and so on have persisted and endured. It seems that nicknaming these watches has become somewhat of a tradition among Seiko enthusiasts that will continue so long as the brand continues to produce new models. 

If you’re interested in Seiko mod parts for your Turtle, Speedy, Willard, UFO, or any other watch, check out our selection at Crystaltimes USA. We provide cases, casebacks, bezels, bezel inserts, crowns, and various other mod parts for the discerning Seiko enthusiast. We also ship anywhere in the USA.

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