The Seiko SKX007 and the SKX173 are two of the most popular watches in Seikos history. The 7S26-type movement is a workhorse for many watch enthusiasts, but there are differences between these models that make them worth considering when picking out your next timepiece.
The "skx175" is the new model of the Seiko SKX007. It has the same features as its predecessor, but with a few changes that make it better.
In This Article...
Seiko SKX007 vs. SKX173: Similar, But Not the Same
The Seiko SKX007 is a legendary diving watch. It follows in the footsteps of the first Rolex Submariner while providing a far more inexpensive alternative.
Seiko, however, didn't stop there. They also produced the SKX009 Pepsi, and they now offer a few additional variations that are interesting.
One of them is the SKX173, which is somewhat too close to the SKX007 in design. But there are a few significant variations.
Let's look at it.
The Difference Between The SKX007 & SKX173
The original is the SKX007, while the SKX173 is exclusive to the US market. Similar to the Pepsi bezels on the SKX009 and SKX175, there are some design differences between the watches this time as well.
- Quality Japanese Automatic movement; Functions without a battery;...
- Hardlex crystal
- Case diameter: 42 mm
- Stainless-steel case; Black dial; Date-and-day functions
- Water resistant to 660 feet (200 M): suitable for recreational...
- Case Size: 43 mm
- Automatic self-winding diver's watch featuring gear-edge...
- Black dial with day/date window and luminous hands and indices
- Hardlex dial window
- Synthetic band with buckle closure
Differences in the dials between the SKX007 and SKX173
The dial features on these two timepieces are where they diverge the most.
Both the SKC173 and the SKX007 feature a bezel and dial that are both black with white markings that are illuminated by Seiko's trademark lume. The hour marks, however, are obviously significantly different.
The SKX007 has circular hour markers, oblong markings at 6 and 9 o'clock, and a triangle at 12 o'clock, giving it the traditional SKX appearance. In my perspective, it gives the watch a softer, more casual appearance.
On the other side, the SKX173 features much more clearly defined, sharply edged rectangles that show the lume. Additionally, it is simpler to see the 12 o'clock marker since it is long, thin, and split.
The Hands
Hour and minute hands are the same size and form on both watches, however the lume on the SKX173 is more noticeable.
The greatest change, nevertheless, may be seen on the second hand. The traditional SKX second hand, which is a long, thin hand with a black base end and a lumed circle on the rear, is present on the SKX007 watch.
The second hand on the SKX173 is made entirely of metal up to the point, but the lumed circle is located right behind the point. This makes nighttime reading more simpler and more precise.
Written work
The last thing to note is Written work on the dial. It’s a small difference, but an important one for imported watches.
The SKX173 must display its nation of origin since it is solely for the US market. Because of this, the word "Malaysia" can be seen next to the hour marker at six o'clock.
The automatic movement is denoted by the other lettering, "7S26," while the other marks are peculiar to Seiko and are often seen on dial versions.
discontinued SKX173 (Early 2018)
Several comments on watch forums claim that Seiko no longer manufactures the SKX173. Therefore, they will become ever more difficult to get and maybe more valuable in the future.
That explains why I have not been able to locate them in many watch stores and why I have only been able to locate them more readily on Ebay.
Features Of The SKX Models In General
The Case
Both the SKX007 and SKX173 have 42mm brushed steel casings. In line with other Seiko dive watches, the crown is located at 4 o'clock. This is excellent for "not in the way" while diving. Also included is a useful crown-guard.
The unidirectional bezel has minute markings that are easily readable when diving and is clearly defined. It also helps that the primary zero marking is a lumed triangle.
The Available Straps
For the SKXs, there are primarily two strap choices. It is available with a rubber dive strap alternative, which is much more useful for diving or aquatic usage. If you want to wear it more casually in town, you might perhaps choose the more upscale Jubilee steel bracelet.
200-meter water resistance and dive-ready
The SKX watches have a 200m water resistance rating, making them dive-ready. Naturally, you can't reduce them to 200 meters—not that you would). However, it is made to be used for diving. This sets it apart from numerous timepieces in a significant way.
A Movement Automatic
Seiko's workhorse automatic movement is the 7s26. Even if it lacks extras like chopping or winding, it is a deadly movement that will last for years. When fully charged, it has a power reserve of 40 hours. Therefore, unless you store it away often, you may not need to purchase a winder.
Which One Suits You Best?
It all depends on which dial you like most. If you ask me, the SKX173 is more eye-catching and contemporary. However, it is not my watch in the end. Finding the SKX173 is not always simple; you may need to visit various Ebay dealers (Amazon does not seem to stock it).
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