The Seiko Willard: A Timeless Icon of Dive Watches

Introduction

When it comes to iconic dive watches, few timepieces can match the legendary status of the Seiko Willard. First introduced in the 1970s, the Seiko Willard, officially known as the Seiko Prospex Diver SPB077 and SPB079, has captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts and professionals alike with its robust build, distinctive design, and remarkable reliability. Let’s delve into the history, features, and enduring appeal of the Seiko Willard.

A Brief History

The Seiko Willard takes its name from Martin Sheen’s character, Captain Benjamin Willard, in the critically acclaimed film “Apocalypse Now.” However, its connection to the movie is not limited to its name. The watch gained significant exposure when it was worn by Sheen throughout the film, solidifying its status as an iconic timepiece.

Originally released in 1970, the Seiko Willard was part of the Seiko’s Professional Diver’s series. It was developed to meet the needs of saturation divers working in extreme conditions. The first iteration, known as the 6105-8110, was equipped with a cushion-shaped case, a large unidirectional rotating bezel, and a prominent crown guard. This distinctive design quickly made it a favorite among diving enthusiasts.

Features and Design

The Seiko Willard’s enduring appeal lies in its rugged and functional design, coupled with its outstanding performance. The modern reissues, SPB077 and SPB079, faithfully capture the essence of the original model while incorporating some modern updates.

One of the defining features of the Seiko Willard is its robust stainless steel case, which measures 42.7mm in diameter and has a thickness of 13.8mm. This size strikes a perfect balance, making it wearable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The case features a mix of brushed and polished finishes, lending it an elegant yet sporty aesthetic.

The unidirectional rotating bezel, with its clear markings and substantial grip, allows for precise timing of dives. It also features a luminous pip at 12 o’clock, ensuring legibility even in low-light conditions. The screw-down crown, adorned with the Seiko “S” logo, provides excellent water resistance, allowing the Willard to withstand depths of up to 200 meters.

The dial of the Seiko Willard is a nod to the original design, with its matte black background and oversized luminescent hour markers and hands. The high-contrast design ensures exceptional legibility, a crucial feature for divers. The date window is positioned at 3 o’clock and features a magnifying cyclops lens for improved visibility.

Enduring Reliability

Seiko has long been revered for its commitment to precision and reliability, and the Seiko Willard is no exception. Powering the watch is the reliable and accurate Seiko Caliber 6R35 automatic movement. With a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, the movement ensures that the watch keeps accurate time even during periods of inactivity.

The modern reissues of the Seiko Willard also benefit from upgraded materials and technology. The use of sapphire crystal provides improved scratch resistance, while the luminescent material on the markers and hands, known as LumiBrite, offers exceptional brightness and longevity.

Conclusion

For watch enthusiasts and divers alike, the Seiko Willard represents a timeless icon that combines form and function. Its distinctive design, durable construction, and exceptional reliability have earned it a special place in horological history. Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean or simply appreciating its iconic style on land, the Seiko Willard continues to captivate watch enthusiasts around the world, solidifying its status as a true legend in the world of dive watches.

Looking to build one of your own? We recently produced a willard case that takes all SKX007 parts. Check out our new SKX Willard Case!