Seiko 5 Sports SBSA299 - The Compact Evolution of the Legendary SKX

The Icon Resized for the Modern Wrist

This model represents the contemporary reinterpretation of the SKX series, maintaining its sporty DNA in a more versatile 38 mm format. A watch that honours Seiko's diving heritage while adapting to current size preferences.

Proven Mechanical Movement

Calibre 4R36 Automatic

• Seiko's workhorse movement with millions of units tested
• 24 jewels for smoothness and durability
• Frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour
• 41-hour power reserve
• Bidirectional automatic winding with manual winding option
• Second hand stop for precise synchronisation

Refined Sporty Design

Deep Navy Blue Dial

• Navy colour evoking the depths of the ocean
• Exceptional readability with high contrast
• Applied dimensional hour markers
• Matte finish reduces glare

Superior LumiBrite Luminescence

• Seiko luminescent hands and hour markers
• Intense, long-lasting glow in the dark
• Instant readability in any condition
• Distinctive luminous dot on the bezel

Robust construction

Component Specification Advantage

Case 316L stainless steel Marine resistance

Size 38 mm diameter Perfect versatility

Thickness 12.1 mm Presence without excess

Hardlex crystal Hardened Impact resistance

Crown 4 o'clock protected Wrist comfort

Solid screw-down case back Total water resistance

Everyday functionality

Practical features:

• Day and date: Large window at 3 o'clock with quick change
• 100 m water resistance: Carefree swimming and snorkelling
• Anti-magnetic protection: Resists everyday magnetic fields
• Oyster bracelet: Solid links with secure clasp

SKX heritage in a modern format

What does it retain from the original SKX?

• Indestructible tool watch spirit
• Balanced proportions
• Legendary mechanical reliability
• Affordable price

What has been improved?

• More portable size (38 vs 42 mm)
• Updated movement with stop seconds
• Crown at 4 o'clock for greater comfort
• Improved finishes

Market positioning

Direct competition:

• Orient Kamasu (larger, similar price)
• Citizen NY0040 (quartz, less prestigious)
• Tissot Seastar (more expensive, less character)

Seiko 5 Sports advantage:

• 60-year heritage
• Global parts and service
• Modifiability (MOD compatibility)
• Massive community of enthusiasts

Versatility of use

Perfect for

• Everyday: Comfortable size for the office
• Water sports: 100m water resistance
• Travel: Automatic, no batteries, robust
• First mechanical watch: Reliable and affordable

Long-term value

Why it's a smart purchase

1. In-house movement (not outsourced)
2. Decades of reliability
3. Timeless design that never goes out of style
4. More desirable modern size than larger originals
5. Perfect base for future modifications

Details That Make the Difference

• Generously applied lume (not stingy like Swiss entry-level)
• Bracelet with micro-adjustments for perfect comfort
• Firmly screwed-down crown (not decorative)
• Tight tolerances without being delicate

The SBSA299 is the Seiko 5 Sports that proves that ‘smaller’ does not mean ‘less capable’. It is the modern heir to the Japanese tool watch, now in a size that works just as well with a suit as it does with a wetsuit.