The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten

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Not too long ago, Seiko made a series of classic Kinetic divers with strong design influences from the world famous Rolex Submariner diverโ€™s watch. These were fondly remembered as the โ€œSKJ" Kinetic Sports divers and they remain the only homage copies of the Submariner with the Kinetic movement.

There were also only three generations of this style of Kinetic divers and they were marketed internationally as generic models, i.e. not belonging to any particular Seiko sub-range such as the Sportura, Arctura, Coutura, etc.

These models sat unnoticed in the midst of the many obscure Kinetic models that shared the same movement. Unlike the international sub-ranges like the Velatura, Premier and Sportura, Seiko didnโ€™t spend on advertising the SKJ Kinetic divers. To the Seiko company, theyโ€™re just a few of their countless generic models โ€“ if you happen to like them, buy them!

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1st Generation (5M23-6B50)

Seiko first debut of the Kinetic divers was probably in 1994 or 1995 with their SHF-series 5M23 models. These had a water resistance of 150m and were named the โ€œSports 150" series. The 5M23 caliber was equipped with the early problematic capacitors and offered a maximum power reserve of just 3 days. The SHF-series had the familiar dial and hands layout which was carried forward to the SMY-series Kinetic divers.

Firstly, Iโ€™d like to state that the SHF-series Kinetics and its successors are not ISO certified diversโ€™ watches. They are merely water resistant sports watches that resemble diverโ€™s watches. For an in-depth explanation on water resistance, you may want to read my previous blog entry.

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SHF045P1_thumb[1]SHF047P1_thumb[2]SHF048P1_thumb[1]

The first Kinetic divers. From left to right: SHF045P, SHF047P and the gold toned SHF048P.

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Right from the beginning, these divers were designed with the Jubilee bracelet in mind. No other bracelet options (e.g Oyster-style) were available. The SHF-series had Hardlex mineral glass and were equipped with 120-click, unidirectional rotating bezels.

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Some real world photos of the 1st generation SHF-series divers:

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shf047p_49 shf047p_47 (Medium)

Above: The early SHF047P 150m Kinetic diver. Pics courtesy of PMWC and Easternwatch.ย 

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I have not seen better other photos of the 5M23-6B50 models other than the above from the โ€˜net nor have I encountered anyone in the SCWF owning such models. Perhaps the SHF-series Kinetics didnโ€™t generate much interest compared to its successor, the SKJ Kinetic divers or they werenโ€™t made in sufficient quantities.

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2nd Generation (5M43-0A40/0B30)

Towards the end of the decade Seiko upgraded the 5M23-6B50 models with a higher water resistant rating of 200m. These were the more famous โ€œSports 200m" Kinetic models or simply known as the โ€œSKJ" Kinetic divers, with a new and improved 5M43 caliber with a longer power reserve of 1 week.

The SKJ-series were lesser known as the 5M43-0A40 models but they were more proved to be more popular amongst Seiko Kinetic diver collectors. Seiko added four more models for the 5M43 Kinetics and including two titanium versions. The dial and hands were carried over from the previous generation and like the SHF-series, were fitted with solid linked Jubilee bracelets.

The new SKJ models had improvements over their predecessors. Apart from the newer movement, the 2nd generation Kinetic diversย  were also upgraded with Sapphlex glass, which is actually a mineral glass base with a sapphire laminate in the top layer.

I donโ€™t know why Seiko had since discontinued making Sapphlex crystals as they provide the best of both worlds โ€“ a more scratch resistant surface with less brittle characteristics. Maybe it was costlier to make compared to a 100% sapphire glass. These days you get either normal Hardlex or sapphire from Seiko.

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SKJ001P1_thumb[1]SKJ003P1_thumb[1]SKJ004P1_thumb[1]

SKJ031P1_thumb[5]SKJ137P1_thumb[1]

The 5M43-0A40 parade. Clockwise from top: SKJ001P, SKJ003P, SKJ004P, SKJ0137P (with silver bezel insert) and the all-blue SKJ031P

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The SKJ-series divers also had a minor change to the bezel insert โ€“ Seiko thankfully added a useful lumed bezel pip at the 12 oโ€™clock marker, which was absent in the earlier SHF-series models.

The SKJ137P was perhaps the odd one out. Itโ€™s the only model to have a silver colored bezel insert and a red second hand. On top of that, its dial has a very interesting emerald green color. In my opinion, the SKJ137P is the rarest model Iโ€™ve seen in pictures and in real life, Iโ€™ve seen and handled two SKJ137Ps.

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SKJ045P1_thumb[1]SKJ048P1_thumb[1]

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The only titanium (5M43-0B30) models in the three generations: SKJ045P (left) and SKJ048P (right)

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Two titanium models, the SK045P and SK048P were also injected into the SKJ lineup, making a total of seven variants for the SKJ-series. The titanium models were probably made in smaller numbers and they are more valuable to collectors than the stainless steel ones. Due to the scarcity of the titanium versions, they fetch a higher value in the used market.

Some years ago Iโ€™ve had the opportunity to take photographs of the rare SKJ045P prior to shipping it to a buyer from USA. He saw a photo of the watch that I posted in the SCWF forum following a visit to the store that had it and contacted me immediately to buy it on his behalf. ๐Ÿ™‚

Here are some nice pictures of SKJ-series Kinetics below.

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SKJ045p_0954 (Medium) IMG_0937_resized (Medium)

Two photos of the very rare SKJ045P titanium Kinetic diver taken before I shipped it to its buyerย 

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Stefan's Kinetics (Medium)

A nice collection of 5M-series Kinetic divers. Clockwise from top left: SKJ001P, SKJ014P, SMY003P and SKJ031P.ย  The SKJ001P and SKJ031P were fitted with Seiko Oyster and President bracelets respectively. Photo courtesy of Stefan Molle

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SKJ001Pq SKJ031P-N SKJ003P SKJ004P

Chronograph.com used to have a few SKJ Kinetics for sale at one time. From left to right: SKJ001P, SKJ031P on a black aftermarket NATO strap and SKJ003P. Bottom: the gold toned SKJ004P

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3nd Generation (5M63-0A10)

In the early 2000s, Seiko introduced their latest and current 5M63 Kinetic caliber to replace the 5M43. The new 5M63 movement promised a more efficient power generation unit and an even much longer power reserve โ€“ 6 months versus the 5M43โ€™s 1-week reserve.

More importantly, with the 5M-caliber, Seiko solved the infamous problem with their earlier Kinetic watches by replacing their leakage-prone capacitor with the rechargeable lithium ion (LiOn) cell. Seiko also provided replacement LiOn cells for the last batches of their 5M4x watches to watch dealers and end users upon request.

This spelled good news for owners of the 5M43-series owners (including the SKJ divers) as the LiOn cells were totally compatible with the older 5M4x calibers. It is not uncommon forย  used SKJ divers for sale to have been upgraded with the LiOn cells. Click here for my past article regarding Seiko Kinetics.

Seiko introduced only three models for its 5M63 Kinetics โ€“ the SMY001P, SMY003P and the SMY005P. Titanium models or gold toned models were completely dropped from the third generation lineup.

My best guess is that the company felt that they went overboard with too many variations with their former SKJ-series and perhaps the black SKJ001P and SKJ003P models outsold their siblings. Maybe their titanium models were too expensive and didnโ€™t sell that well.

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smy001p_kinetic 4046

Borrowed photos of the SMY001P (left) and SMY003P (right). I havenโ€™t found a photo of the blue SMY005P so far.

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Aesthetics-wise, the SMY series were identical to the SKJ-series but with the following differences:

  • Dial text no longer says โ€œSports 200" but โ€œKinetic Water Resist 200m"
  • A very plain and bland polished caseback instead of having the โ€œwave logo" as with its predecessors

The SMY-series divers could have carried forward the famous Seiko wave logo that adorns the casebacks of their ancestors but sadly, they come with plain vanilla casebacks. Thereโ€™s nothing to admire from the rear save for the mandatory caseback and reference numbers and the usual Seiko text markings. I suspect Seiko chose the plain caseback to cut production costs.

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SMY00x caseback

The 3rd generation SMY Kinetic divers dispensed with the wave logo on the casebacks. Pic courtesy of Timefactors.com

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Thankfully, the SMY-series Kinetics still adopted the hybrid Sapphlex crystal from the previous SKJ-series and are fitted with the same high quality, solid linked Jubilee bracelet.

I guess am fortunate to own probably the last NOS (New Old Stock) SMY003Pย  in Malaysia and Iโ€™m happy to say that itโ€™s one of my favorite watches. ๐Ÿ™‚

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SMY003P_resized (Medium) IMG_3641_resized (Medium)

Photos of my very own SMY003P. No, Iโ€™m not selling this one for sure! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Will there be a 4th generation?

Thatโ€™s a good question. I donโ€™t suppose there will be any. If it serves as an indication the SMY-series were already discontinued and you donโ€™t see fresh stocks of these watches in the stores, whether online or brick-and-mortar.

If itโ€™s one thing I know about Seiko, theyโ€™re largely in the profit making business and they make watches mostly for the masses, not for the very selective individuals like enthusiasts like us.

While itโ€™s also true that Seiko also makes very high end, fine timepieces sold through their Grand Seiko and Credor lines but sales of watches from those lines constitute a small percentage of their total earnings.

If a particular range or variant didnโ€™t fare well in sales, the company would cease production of that model, whether you really adore the watch or not. Which probably explains why the evergreen SKX007 mechanical diver is still in production today since 1996 while some exotic designs like the Sky Professional analog digitals only ran a rather brief two-year product life span. And Iโ€™m not talking about limited edition Seikos either.

Although the Kinetic 5M63 caliber has been around since the early 2000s, Iโ€™m not sure what Seikoโ€™s marketing division plans to develop new Kinetic divers based on the day/date 5M63.

It appears that the Japanese watch manufacturer lately preferred to concentrate on pushing their date-only 5M62 Kinetic divers, such as the SKA293P โ€œBig Boss", SKA369P โ€œBig Freakinโ€™ Kinetic (BFK) and their latest SKA383P ISO-rated 200m divers.

So far I have not seen any new Seiko diver models based on the 5M63 Kinetic since the SMY-series Kinetics and the SMY089P Black Knight (also discontinued). Perhaps Seikoโ€™s recent market research showed a consumersโ€™ preference for date-only watches in non-automatic divers? Hmmโ€ฆ..

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SKA293P1 (Medium) SKA369P1a (Medium) SKA385P1

Above: The SKA293P โ€œBig Boss", SKA369P โ€œBFK" and the yellow SKA385P 5M62 date-only Kinetic divers. All pics from Chronograph.com

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So if you missed the opportunity to own a brand new piece of a model that had been discontinued, youโ€™re largely out of luck. That doesnโ€™t mean that finding one is impossible โ€“ itโ€™s just itโ€™s a lot harder to source it. There could be a few lying unsold in some obscure watch store somewhere in the world, waiting for the right buyer to give them a good home. ๐Ÿ™‚

If you donโ€™t mind buying a pre-owned SHF/SKJ/SMY Kinetic diver, you may come across a For Sale (FS) ad in one of the well known international watch trading forums such as Watch-U-Seek, Poor Manโ€™s Watch Forum and of course, the Seiko & Citizen Trading Forum.

You can also place a WTB (Want To Buy) advertisement for a specific Kinetic model that youโ€™re after. Hopefully someone will answer your ad with a very good offer. Of course, thereโ€™s also a possibility that these model come up on eBay from time to time. Keep monitoring the auction sites and remember, perseverance pays off handsomely in the end! ๐Ÿ™‚

Did you enjoy this post? Why not leave a comment below and continue the conversation, or subscribe to my feed and get articles like this delivered automatically to your feed reader.

Comments

Nice work, Quartzimodo, you did it again! Just as my thoughts begin to crystallize on watches I really like, I look in here and see more or less what I was thinking spelt out already, complete with pics. Youโ€™re doing my research for me!

I really like these older kinetic โ€˜diversโ€™ and actually think Iโ€™d get more enjoyment from a complete set than from one new MarineMaster 300! Perhaps Iโ€™m just being daft, but thereโ€™s one for every occasion, dressy or not, sunny or rain, work or play etcโ€ฆ.

I t h i n k Badern still has a NOS (with upgrade) SKJ004P1 (black/gold) which went unsold a few months backโ€ฆ I will certainly be emailing him in the new year and hope to kickstart the set with that one! (I know I can mention that to you in here as no one will see! LOL!)โ€ฆ

Keep up the good work, mate, really enjoyable read!

regards,
Peter

Thanks again, Peter. I originally wanted to do a brief writeup on the SKJ Kinetics alone and realized that thereโ€™s a history behind these little known models so Iโ€™d better assemble the complete story.

I enjoy my SMY003P because it has a classic Submariner look to it and itโ€™s my only Kinetic with a day calendar too. Check with Badern if he still owns the SKJ004P (he may have sold at least one in the past).

If youโ€™re interested in the SKJ137P with the very deep green dial, let me know as itโ€™s looking for a decent home for years. ๐Ÿ˜‰

cheers,
Q.

very nice writeup zami. you are the seiko expert ๐Ÿ™‚

Thanks Dima! ๐Ÿ™‚

Seiko expert? Hardly. Iโ€™m still on the learning curve, my friend. ๐Ÿ™‚

Excellent write-up! Very well written and so informative.
Keep up the good work.

/Stefan

Thanks for the comments, Stefan. I hope you donโ€™t mind if I borrowed your pic, as you have the best photos of SKJโ€™s around. ๐Ÿ™‚

Thanks!

Youโ€™re free to use any pictures on my site.

mollewatch.webgain.se

Hi Quartzimodo,

Great write up of an often overlooked series of watches. You know i love the SKJs. Almost had the whole series once LOL! Was only lacking the blue on blue (SKJ031). But now i have sold 2 off (yup, even the SKJ004) and left the SKJ 001 and SKJ 003.

Keep up the good work bro! What about an article on lume of Seikos/Citizens? Also how different models have different quality lumes eg SKX009 vs Monster.

Take care bro,

Badern

Hi Badern,

Thanks for leaving the nice comments. Your SKJ003P is probably the only one Iโ€™ve seen with an aftermarket date magnifier, which makes it very unique.

I would say the SKJ001P and 003P should suffice but your Kinetic collection has grown again. lol. ๐Ÿ™‚

Sure, Iโ€™ve thought about writing about lume comparisons of Seiko and Citizen but that will take some research first. Thanks for the reminder though!

cheers,

Quartzimodo

Hey there, I was teh american who just โ€œhad to haveโ€ the titanium SKJ you help me get. I have since sold the watch, but miss it anyhow. Thanks again. MS

Thanks for a great write-up of these watches, it helped me identify a Seiko that Iโ€™ve had for a nearly 15 years..the SKJ045P.

Unfortunately the numbered bezel insert fell out whilst diving recently, and Seiko UK are unable to provide a replacement. If you have any idea of where I could locate a replacement insert I would be most grateful !

Hi Pnut,

Yes, that was your SKJ045P watch that I featured in the post. Iโ€™m knew that you sold it but I guess we all go through our phases in watch collecting.

Hope all is well with you, Matt. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo.

Hi Delvis,

Wow, you must be lucky to own that uber rare SKJ045P. In my life I only saw one in the wild and it eventually was owned by โ€œPnutโ€ who posted above you.

I may be able to source the bezel for your watch (if itโ€™s still available) but not the insert. Seiko never sells inserts separately โ€“ they come together with the bezel whether you like it or not ๐Ÿ™ Contact me via the blog form if you wish to order one.

Are you certain that youโ€™ve had your watch for 15 years? That would be 1993 and the SKJ-series Kinetics werenโ€™t made until the late 90s.

Let me know your six-digit serial number imprinted on your watch caseback, that should tell the exact age of your SKJ045P.

Quartzimodo.

Thanks for that, the watch serial number is 780580, and thinking back it may have been later that I bought itโ€ฆmaybe 1996 or โ€™97..from a Seiko dealer in Gibraltar.

Unfortunately the bracelet hasnโ€™t stood the test of time, so Iโ€™ve now got it on a leather strap.

If you can let me know the cost of a bezel replacement Iโ€™d definitely be interested as Seiko UK only have a blue/gold replacement available which I donโ€™t think would be suitable.

Many thanks !

Hi Delvis,

Based on your serial numbers, your watch was made in Aug 1997, which is about the right era for the 5M43 caliber. A leather strap would look nice on your watch, Iโ€™m sure. ๐Ÿ™‚

Iโ€™ll find out if the SKJ045P replacement bezel is still available from Seiko Japan.

Stay tuned for my PM.

Quartzimodo

Hi

I have 5m23-6b73 purchased sometime in 1990. I was not using for few months and found that now its not keeping time. I found out from web that it has some type of capacitor battery. Where can I get that replacement kit? Can I change it at home?

Hi Mjbad2,

Since youโ€™re located in Canada, I would suggest that you take your watch to your Seiko authorized repair center here:

Odyssey Time Inc.
60 Prince Andrew Place, Toronto,Ontario,M3C 2H4, Canada
Tel:+1-647-288-2222

If you prefer changing the old capacitor to the new rechargeable cell yourself, you can buy it from Chronograph.com. The procedure to replace a capacitor is slightly different than primary (disposable) cells.

Be sure to read this article first!

Quartzimodo Admin.

hey great history of the skjโ€™sโ€ฆ
thank god i stumbled upon this site cos im about to purchase a skj031p fetching a price of MYR 800 brand new. would this be a good buy? what should i look out for before purchasing?
this will be my 1st seiko and i want it to be a good buy.
pls do email me asap as i am about to view the watch in 2 weeks time. thanks

ps: do u know any seller of these skjโ€™s here in malaysia? would like to hunt for a better bargain. thanks again

Hi James,

RM800 is considered a bargain as the stainless steel SKJ models have a MRSP of RM1.3K and the street price (discounted) is usually RM900 onwards. The watch is considered super-rare nowadays, so grab it before someone else does. ๐Ÿ˜‰

The SKJ031P is probably at least eight years old โ€“ sooner or later youโ€™ll want to have its rechargeable lithium ion cell replaced. If the dealer has a Seiko Kinetic Energy Supplier unit, have the watch charged for at least 30 minutes before taking it home. Otherwise, youโ€™ll have to endure an arm-breaking exercise to get it to 100% charge. -)

Hope this helps.

Quartzimodo Admin.

thank u so much q admin. iโ€™m purchasing it via a forum, this dealerโ€™s grandad had a shop in melaka, now recently inherited all the seikoโ€™s. so i dont think dealer has the ke supplier unit. btw, are u from msia? email me then get me into these seiko madnessโ€ฆ

Hi James,

Some authorized Seiko dealers that provide watch repair services may have the Kinetic charger โ€“ you may want to hunt around for one. Yes, Iโ€™m from Malaysia and used to live in Melaka in the mid 70s. Please use my contact form if you have any further questions to ask. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,

Quartzimodo.

Hey Q, itโ€™s me again. I think this is the 3rd question Iโ€™ve asked in the past few days. Ainโ€™t the internet great!

Came across this & wondered what you thought.

i16.ebayimg.com/04/i/001/2c/69/ad51_1.JPG
i6.ebayimg.com/02/i/001/2c/69/bf73_1.JPG
i22.ebayimg.com/02/i/001/2c/69/df33_1.JPG

Thanks again!

Hi Tucker,

Thatโ€™s the very recognizable SKA013P Kinetic sports watch. I have one these beauties. Check out my past review of this watch here. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo Admin.

I have a 2nd gen w/pepsi dialโ€ฆyou are not kidding about sapphlexโ€ฆI have a bunch of watches and only seiko sapphlex and citizen sapphire will not scratch no matter what abuse I subject them to.

THe only regret is that I also bought a 2nd gen black dial and I quickly sold it again because at the time I thought it redundant.

I have beat the living tar out of my pepsi diver over the years and despite my abuse it has only shown a little paint wear on the bezel. I should upgrade that capacitor but I just donโ€™t want to disturb the gasket!!! Itโ€™s been a beautiful, toughโ€“toughest Iโ€™ve ownedโ€“watch for 13 or so years and I canโ€™t bring myself to have it cracked open!

gr8 blog here on an under appreciated watch

Hi Don,

Thanks for sharing the interesting comments. It is a common fallacy that sapphire glass (and Sapphlex) is totally immune to scratches โ€“ theyโ€™re not. Sapphire crystals have a much higher resistance to scratches but theyโ€™re unfortunately not 100% scratch-proof. A stainless steel penknife or a paper cutter blade usually wonโ€™t leave a mark on sapphire, but a very rough surfaced concrete pillar may scratch sapphire if you accidentally scraped your watch on it.

The bezel insert can be replaced, but you have to order the bezel as a whole unit. Seiko does not sell inserts as a separate replacement part. IMO, there is no compelling need to upgrade the original capacitor to the 6-month power reserve, lithium ion cell if you wear your Kinetic often enough. Your gaskets will deteriorate in time and sooner or later youโ€™ll need to replace them if your watch is subjected to water daily.

Thirteen years of ownership is pretty impressive!. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

Hi bro,

Just read this article again (and droooled again lol)
as a fellow WIS was asking me about the SKJ and SMY series.
The 1st thought came to mind was this excellent article of yours. I have already recommended him to read this article.
The SKJs brings back memories of my crazy days of having โ€˜multiplesโ€™!! LOL!

Take care
Bad

Hi Bad,

Well, if itโ€™s any consolation you have taken the path towards collecting Seiko Tuna divers exclusively which draws my admiration. ๐Ÿ˜‰ The SKJ and SMY-series Kinetic divers are destined to become classics in their own right. The newer designs from Seiko have taken a different turn โ€“ it appears that Seiko is turning towards the younger generation market.

all the best,

Quartzimodo.

I am having withdrawal symptoms for my Seiko SKJ004P (Gold Tone/Black Dial). I bought one in 2002 and it was giving me great service. Two years ago, I picked up a Rolex Oyster perpetual to replace it and put my Seiko in cold storage in my brotherโ€™s house in the U.S.. Two years later, I am in India and my beloved watch is half a world away! I am going to be back in the States next month and hope to be re-united with my long lost friend. Hope the battery/capacitor isnโ€™t dead because of it being in cold storage for such a long time.

Thanks for this nice article. I have a SKJ003P and would like to have a Solid Oyster bracelet for it, do you know if the bracelets for the SKX007 series will fit the kinetic ?
Thanks.

Hi, Roland!

Good to hear from you again and I see youโ€™re actively posting on SCWF. ๐Ÿ™‚

Excellent question. While both the SKJ-series Kinetics and the SKX007 diver have 22mm lugs, the end links from your Oyster bracelet at least in theory, may not fit nicely into your SKJ003P.
This is because the SKJโ€™s lugs are longer than those of the SKX007. You may have to swap the Oysterโ€™s end links with the SKJโ€™s end links to achieve the perfect fit.

Let me know how it goes! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo.

Where can I buy a Oyster bracelet for my SKJ004P (at least one that will fit)? The gold plating on my two-tone bracelet has partly abraded away so I need to replace it.

Hi Varadaraj,

Seikoโ€™s gold plated bracelets are unfortunately not known for their longevity. I suppose corrosion is somewhat accelerated in hot and humid climates and especially by skin sweat.

Youโ€™ll have to contact the nearest authorized Seiko dealer who can order one for you. Seiko has only one customer service center in India, which is listed here. You can try emailing them first. Be sure to quote Part Number 43M5LZ as itโ€™s the model for the two-toned Jubilee bracelet. Although this bracelet is no longer made by Seiko Japan, but thereโ€™s a possibility that remaining stocks still exist.

Hope this helps and good luck!

Quartzimodo

Update on Oyster on SKJ003P. I bought a super oyster from Yobokies and tryed to fit it to the watch. The end links were indeed to high, they touched the bezel so it would not turn.
I did not like it. So I modifified the end links from the original jubilee bracelet. I brushed the center and made the hole for the first link rectangular. Here is the result :
www.triadot.com/watch/oyst_0.jpg

Hi Roland,

Thatโ€™s a very nice outcome of your modification! ๐Ÿ™‚

I had anticipated the end links would be the only problem as the SKJ/SMY Kinetic divers have longer lugs than the classic SKX divers, which Yobokiesโ€™ replacement Oysters were intended for. Kudos to your efforts and I should think your perseverance paid off handsomely.

That said, Stefan Molle had also experimented with the Seiko President and Oyster bracelets for his SKJ divers with considerable success.

cheers,
Quartzimodo

I have a Seiko 5M43-0B30 SKJ048P which I purchased new directly from Seiko UK in about 1995. I always has been a reliable and accurate timekeeper except when in 2001 it developed a problem holding the charge. I sent it to Seiko and they replaced the capacitor and serviced it. Now (Oct 2009) it has developed the same problem. Can I still get it repaired? Any idea how much this might cost? It seems too good a watch to discard.

Hi Robin,

Iโ€™m not sure whether the Seiko repair center replaced your original, factory fitted capacitor with one of the same or upgraded your watch with the TC-920 rechargeable lithium ion cell. Eight years have passed since your first capacitor replacement and the storage cell โ€“ whether it was a capacitor or a rechargeable cell, has most likely reached the end of its lifespan.

When a Kinetic watch can no longer store a sufficient charge, three possibilities exist: the storage cell is unable to store electricity due to age or that your watchโ€™s charging mechanism has developed a fault. Or both. I would recommend that you present your watch to the Seiko repair center and have it recharged using the facilityโ€™s Kinetic watch charger. It may take an hour or slightly longer to get the watch to a full charge.

When the charging process is done, press the power reserve button and check the state of power charge. If it doesnโ€™t show a full charge (indicated by the second hand swinging to the 30 second mark or a 180 degree swing), then your internal storage cell is at fault. If indicates a full charge, your watchโ€™s charging mechanism may be the culprit and an inspection and a service will be in order.

I do not know how much Seiko UK charges for repairs but I can imagine it could be a bit costly. In Malaysia repair fees are a lot cheaper due to our lower wage structure. Your gold plated SKJ048P is a fine watch โ€“ try to preserve it if you can. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,

Quartzimodo

Hi. Canโ€™t believe i just stumbled across this site! I bought my SKJ045P from Oman in 1998 and it cost me then ยฃ180!! At the time it retailed in the UK for ยฃ500. I just thought it was a really nice watch, but i never realised just how durable it would be. 14 years in the military and it has only been serviced once. Two years ago when the kinetic movement seized up. Seiko UK replaced the capacitor and gave it a full service. Unfortunately they could not fit an original SS crown so i had to settle for the gold colour one. Doesnโ€™t notice that much if iโ€™m honest. However the titanium strap is completely shot. Pins bent and cracked and all the links are stretched and worn. Could i get hold of a new strap from you and what would be the cost? I love the watch and donโ€™t really want to part with it, however i am not paying the UK price for a new Titanium strapโ€ฆยฃ180! Therefore i may have to settle for a SS type ๐Ÿ™ As a last resort i will sell on Ebayโ€ฆJust how rare is this watch and what do you think it is worth please?

Awesome write up and cracking photoโ€™s too.

Reagrds Lee.

Hi Lee,

Watches are unfortunately heavily taxed in Europe and the UK, thatโ€™s why your SKJ045P cost 500 quid over there. Thereโ€™s no tax on watches in Malaysia and Singapore and Seiko watch enthusiasts in your part of the world prefer to buy online from web store and eBay merchants from SE Asia. Itโ€™s possible to find the replacement bracelet for your SKJ045P on condition that Seiko Japan still has some left. If I visit the Seiko parts center in the future, Iโ€™ll inquire whether they have your titanium bracelet.

It may be inadvisable for you to substitute a stainless steel bracelet because the titanium surface on your watch lugs is rather soft and easily scratched. Should efforts in finding a replacement bracelet draw a blank, you might want to use a custom leather strap that covers the gap between the lug ends and the watch case.

Titanium SKJ Kinetics divers are very rare. Depending on the condition and demand, you might be able to sell it between USD200 to USD300.

Hope this helps. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

โ€ฆโ€ฆ.Some other info you may require: 5M43-0B30

serial number (under the โ€˜waveโ€™) is: 633752

Thanks again

Lee.

Lee, based on your serial number your watch was made in March 1996, which makes it one of the earliest batches of the SKJ045P. Iโ€™m rather surprised because I didnโ€™t think Seiko made them that far back. Usually Kinetics from the mid 90s are marked โ€œA.G.S.โ€ on the dial, rather than โ€œKineticโ€.
The ones similar to yours, that Iโ€™ve seen in real life were dated 1998 or later.

regards,
Quartzimodo.

Quartzimodoโ€ฆMany thanks for your info. I would very much appreciate you finding out about the titanium bracelet. I donโ€™t really want to fit a SS or leather type. If they do have one then please email me and let me know how much. I do have a paypal account if that makes things easier?
Email: [email protected]

The watch itself is in very good condition considering its age. There are no scratches on the glass and only a couple of very tiny dents to the side of the titanium surface. The watch does need a professional clean but the internals are A1 condition. The movement makes the typical kinetic sound and is very smooth. Functions all work. The rotating bezel is showing signs of age where the black has worn away close to the glass. Other than that it is in fine working condition. I could email you a photo or two if you want?

Let me know asap regards the bracelet

great website!

Kind reagrds, Lee.
Kind regards

Lee.

Iโ€™m rather surprised because I didnโ€™t think Seiko made them that far back. Usually Kinetics from the mid 90s are marked โ€œA.G.S." on the dial, rather than โ€œKinetic".
The ones similar to yours, that Iโ€™ve seen in real life were dated 1998 or later.

Hi Quartzimodo,

My Kinetic Sports 200 follows your description of the 2nd Gen.
But has the Serial number 588214 Caliber is 5m43-0A40
So my Seiko must be from August 1995.

I can send you some pics if you contact me via E-Mail.

Are you sure about the production dates of 1stGen.
and 2nd Genaration?

Greetings from Germany, Oli

Hi, placed a new picture online of my SKJ003P on solid oyster.
Just thought is was time for an update.
www.triadot.com/watch/oyst_0.jpg

Hi Roland,

Thanks for the update! Youโ€™re one of the best known members in SCWF who collects quartz, Eco Drive and Kinetic watches exclusively. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo.

If anyone is interested I have a 1997 Titanium Sports 200 SKJ048P for sale (Blue and Gold).

Wow what a mine of info on the divers kinetics! I bought my SKJ 100P what seems a lifetime ago and have worn it almost every day since. Had to have the inevitable Li-ion upgrade last year but apart from that itโ€™s been bullet proof.

Sadly a couple of weeks ago the S/S bracelet fell apart, so I bought what I thought was a direct replacement 22mm Jubilee bracelet on-line, only to find that the pins that locate in the watch body on the original bracelet are smaller in diameter than the new ones.

All was not lost as the replacement does fit my 7N36 Divers watch, but have you any idea where I can locate a S/S bracelet that will fit my much loved SKJ!

Hope you can help and thanks again for a great article.

Ron

Hi Ron,

Your SKJ100P takes the gold toned bracelet, code number 44E1-JZ. This bracelet is specific to your watch model and not all 22mm bracelets would flush fit on your watch. You can try ordering a replacement bracelet from your nearest Seiko service center. Alternatively, you could post a question to Mr Lee Wee Wah, who runs the Chronograph.com online watch store. He might be able to source one for you. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers
Quartzimodo

This article got me hooked on the 2nd Gen SKJ 5M43 divers โ€“ thanks Q! My fab four are pictured here:

flic.kr/p/8FBJ2V

Regards

subdave
David

Hi David,

Yes, I saw your Fab Four on Flickr and I must complement you for keeping them in absolutely pristine condition! ๐Ÿ™‚ There arenโ€™t many SKJ-series Sports 200 collectors that I know about โ€“ the other one being Stefan Molle from Sweden.

Quartzimodo

I own an 5M23-6B50, and have worn it every day since I bought it in 1994.
It was the first thing I bought using my new Visa card, and I purchased it from the Navy, Army and Airforce store in Herford Germany, where I was based (British Army).
Since then I have replaced the mineral glass and upgraded the capacitor (in reality they are only rechargeable batteries).
My Dad is a watchmaker and he wears a Seiko, so I thought if its good enough for him, itโ€™s good enough for me.

Below is an photo I just took of it on my desk โ€“

imgur.com/JJUg9

regards

Matt

Hi Matt,

Thanks for sharing the photo of your SHF047P. If you have replaced its original capacitor after 16 years of owning the watch, that is quite an achievement in itself! The earlier capacitors were prone to premature leakage and thatโ€™s why Seiko switched to rechargeable lithium ion cells later. I donโ€™t know why Seiko didnโ€™t strive to find a better capacitor design because lithium ion cells have a rather short finite lifespan. Maybe they were banking on the higher charge holding capacity the lithium ion cells offer as a selling point.

Your dad really knows his stuff. My best regards to him for his wisdom in the fascinating world of horology! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quarzimodo

Hi Q,
You may or may not remember our correspondence just over a year ago (itโ€™s still on this site) re my SKJ048.(Oct 25/26 2009). I have been overseas for most of the past year and unable to send my watch anywhere for repairs with a positive guarantee that Iโ€™d get it back.
Anyway, back in UK at beginning of September and I sent my watch off to Kinetic Repairs UK (www.kinetic-repairs.co.uk/) who did a fine job of updating the electronics, lubricating the moving parts, ultrasonically cleaning it, testing the water resistance and guaranteeing it for a year โ€“ all done in a turnaround of a week and for a total cost, including postage, of 65 GBPs. Itโ€™s keeping excellent time again and maintaing a full charge at all times. A good job, well done and a recommendation from me.
Keep it ticking!!and thanks for your advice in the first place.
Robin B

Hi Robin,

Great to hear from you again. ๐Ÿ™‚ Itโ€™s good to know that you sent your SKJ048P diver to a professionals who specialize in Kinetics. Iโ€™d say that 68 quid is a fair rate to pay (in the UK), considering that itโ€™s not just a simple capacitor/rechargeable cell replacement but a total overhaul job. Thanks for sharing your recommendations, hope that other readers in the UK will come to know of Kinetic Repairs UK.

Wear your watch in good health! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] on the wrist. Own a collectible! Read this excellent article to learn more about the SKJ Divers: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten Reply With Quote ยซ Previous Thread | Next Thread [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] a Kinetic! Or do I? You can solve the power charge issue by being a one watch man. I got my SKJ Kinetic (article post by Quartzimodo Admin, quartzimodo.com/) going on 10 years ago overseas in Hong Kong. [โ€ฆ]

I have bought two of the 2nd generation recently. I first bought an SKJ003P in excellent condition. I had the capacitor overhaul done professionally. Then, I got a decent condition SKJ001 from badern that had a bad capacitor (he told me about it prior to sale). I replaced the capacitor myself for $16. I also have an SMY001 on its way, but without a bezel insert. I ordered a complete bezel to install once I get it.

These watches are EXTREMELY well made and I count them as some of the best watches I have ever owned, and I have owned them all from Rolex to Omega to IWC to TAG.

Absolutely love htem, and this article was of great help to me. Thank you.

Hi Peter,

Badern is a good friend of mine and he takes care of his watches, past and present very well. Heโ€™s an honest seller and never exaggerates the description of the watches that heโ€™s sold. Itโ€™s too bad that Seiko doesnโ€™t sell bezel inserts separately and one has to buy the complete bezel, which isnโ€™t exactly cheap.

Youโ€™re one of the very few watch enthusiasts that appreciate the SKJ (and subsequently, the SMY) series Kinetic sports divers. Coming from someone who owns high end Swiss marques like Rolex, Omega and IWC your expertise in watch ownership is remarkable. ๐Ÿ™‚ Both were well constructed but discontinued by Seiko. None of these models were made in automatic or quartz versions, which makes them extra special and unique. ๐Ÿ™‚

Iโ€™m lucky to own at least one of these watches โ€“ the Pepsi bezeled SMY003P, with the updated 5M63 movement. Itโ€™s a rock solid watch and both the SKJ and SMY Kinetics were one of the few and last Seiko watches to use the Sapphlex crystal, which is basically a Hardlex glass with a sapphire top laminate.

Enjoy your SKJ001P in good health! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] Bracelet looks full length and new (? replacement?), though it matches photos of original watch: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten. 42mm, runs well, though I never wore it enough to test the full strength of the kinetic [โ€ฆ]

I just picked up an SMY001 and can now offer another difference between them and the SKJ series. The SKJ has an applied โ€œSEIKOโ€ logo on the dial, whereas the SMY has it printed. I like the logo on the SKJ better, but the overall layout of text better on the SMY series dial.

Hi Peter,

Actually both the SKJ and SMY series Kinetics have the Seiko logo in the form of an applied, three dimensional, slightly chromed decal. I own the Pepsi bezeled SMY003P myself (with a rare English/Arabic day calendar) and can vouch for this. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,
Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] like to ID them and save them for reference. This link should help with the ID and reference: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten โ€”โ€”โ€”โ€”โ€”โ€”โ€“ โ€ฆoOmega 300m Chrono โ€ฆ [โ€ฆ]

I came across this great page in search of info on my Seiko Kinetic 5M43-0A29โ€ฆ.From the sounds of it, I was not the only one with the same problem of it not holding a charge. Years ago I was told it would cost about $100 to repair and that I would have to send into Seiko, so I just put it in my watch drawer. Is this now something a watch repair shop can do without having to send to Seiko??? I have just purchased a new Seiko diver and would like to get the Kinetic fixed to give to my sonโ€ฆwill it still cost $100 to repair??? I would hate to put it back away because it was a great watch.

Hi Rodney,

Skilled labor is rather expensive in your country and itโ€™s understandable that many people resort to DIY jobs whenever they can. Why not check out Kinetic Repairs? Theyโ€™re currently having a promotion for their services; for just USD65 not only they will upgrade the old capacitor (I assume your 5M43 still has the original capacitor), theyโ€™ll also overhaul and clean your watch. Just ship your watch to them and theyโ€™ll take care of everything. Not a bad deal, IMO. ๐Ÿ™‚

Note that I am not in any way affiliated with the Kinetic Repair company.

hope this helps,
Quartzimodo

HELP! searching for SHF014 want to buy. some one stole mine and i refuse to own any other thank you. 612-250-4762 peter b

Hi Peter b,

Sorry to hear that youโ€™ve lost your SHF014P. It wonโ€™t be easy to find a replacement as such watches are hard to come by. Seiko may have manufactured the SHF014P in limited numbers and thereโ€™s the challenge to find someone willing to part with his.

good luck with your search! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

Hi, Iโ€™ve been given a Seiko Kinetic Titanium, Case No 5M43-0B30, serial no 723815. YOM 1997. From your article I think it is a SKJ045P, only a little more lived in than your fine examples. The titanium bracelet has been trashed, especially the end pieces. Are you aware of anywhere I can acquire a replacement? (I note your comments to Lee from 2009). Thank you. Simon M-H.

Hi Simon,

Thereโ€™s a reason that I own titanium Seiko watches to an absolute minimum. Although titanium alloy metal is tougher than stainless steel, the surface of the titanium used in Seiko watches are rather fragile and scratches very easily. Scuffs and scratches are not easy to refinish compared to stainless steel. That said, Seiko does have a range of titanium coated with their proprietary DiaShield coating (similar to Citizenโ€™s Duratect process) but DiaShield coated models are confined to expensive, Seiko models for the local Japanese market.

The bracelet for the SKJ045P has the reference code 4400-JZ and is a discontinued item. Itโ€™s a long shot, but you may want to contact the Seiko service center in your country. Should Seiko Japan still have leftover bracelets, your service center should be able to order one for you.

Best of luck! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

I just bought new old stock a SKJ076 titanium kinetic. Although not a real diverโ€™s watch it could pass, although only 10 bar depth tested. I tell those that are curious that it means an alarm goes off on Saturday nights after Iโ€™ve been to the 10th bar. Hereโ€™s the question: Can the installation of the lithium ion battery substantially increase the duration of charge over the original capacitor or in order to do that does the movement have to be of a more recent vintage in order to take advantage of the upgraded?

Hi Chris,

Historically, all 5M4x Kinetics were fitted with capacitors but when Seiko introduced the replacement 5M6x calibers circa 2001, Seiko did offer free lithium ion battery upgrades for some markets. If I remember correctly this free upgrade was offered to owners of the last batch of 5M4x Kinetic models. Although the 5M63 (with day/date) is somewhat more efficient in the power generation section, older 5M43 Kinetic watches can still use rechargeable LiOn batteries.

Seiko never produced a minor update to the 5M43; the movement only had the first version โ€“ the 5M43A and there was no such thing as a โ€œ5M43Bโ€. To answer your question, yes โ€“ a switch to the much higher capacity LiOn battery will substantially increase your watchโ€™s charge to 6 months. If you wear your SKJ076P Kinetic on a daily basis this should be of no problem โ€“ a week or twoโ€™s wear on your wrist will fully charge the battery. In any case, Seiko service centers and some dealers that perform LiOn rechargeable battery replacement services have the special YT-04 Kinetic Energy Supplier (charger). Itโ€™s usually a standard procedure to use the Energy Supplier to fully charge the battery before handing the watch to you.

BTW, thatโ€™s a good joke wrt to the meaning of โ€œ10 Barsโ€ for absolute watch noobs. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

I bought my SKJ045P in 1996 i Gibraltar like another person in here. My bracelet is starting to be worn out and I wondered if it still is possible to get a new original one?

Hi Rapptor,

Itโ€™s a long shot but you might be able to place an order for the SKJ045Pโ€™s titanium bracelet at the nearest Seiko service center in your country or region. Just quote them the part number 4400-JZ. Good luck with your hunt! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

hello,
I have in my possession a seiko SKJ001P of 1995 that the capacitor has been changed recently, it works, however, perfectly, I found him a bracelet-like oyster, do you know an address to get one ?? thank you very much for this excellent site on the watch seiko kinetic sports 200.

Jakez

Hi Jakez,

Your question is rather vague but I am assuming that youโ€™re looking for a replacement stainless steel bracelet, original to the watch and not some third party bracelet. If youโ€™re looking for the original bracelet, contact Seiko France at [email protected] and quote the part number 43M5-JZ.
If they donโ€™t have stock of this bracelet, they can place an order from Seiko Japan. So far I have not seen other kinds of bracelets (not leather straps) fitted to the SKJ001P as this watch has quite a big gap between the end links and the watch head. A non-original SKJ bracelet may not fit nicely on your watch.

good luck! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] are getting very difficult to find. there was a good review of these divers i found on the net. quartzimodo.com/the-skj-kinetic-divers-gone-but-not-forgotten/ Reply With [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] are getting very difficult to find. there was a good review of these divers i found on the net. quartzimodo.com/the-skj-kinetic-divers-gone-but-not-forgotten/ Reply With [โ€ฆ]

Hi, Iโ€™ve been given a Seiko Kinetic Titanium sports 200,The No on the Case is5M43-0B30,i like the watch very much and i gave it to my son, unfortunately the Bezel fall and the bezel spring ring been lost, iโ€™m wondering if you can recommend me where i can buy it and what is the serial part number.
The Seiko service at my country (Israel) do not have it and i prefer to order it via the net, Thx for your support, Nir

Shalom Nir,

Sorry to hear about your malfunctioning bezel. This sometimes happens to watches due to wear and tear and age. I assume that your model is the gray dialed SKJ045P (not the other gold-toned SKJ048P) model. If so, the part number for the bezel is 86312025. Although your local Seiko service center doesnโ€™t have it (bear in mind that Seiko service centers donโ€™t stock everything!), they can place an order with Seiko Japan. Depending on their policy, your Seiko service center may ask you for a deposit while they process your order. It may take a few months for the bezel to arrive, assuming that it is still available in Japan.

hope this helps,
Quartzimodo

Shalom and Hi,

Thank you for your prompt reply, iโ€™ll try to order the bezel based on the above part No. and will keep you update.

[โ€ฆ] inclued original bracelet. Here is a good article regarding the collectability of these divers. The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten Reply With [โ€ฆ]

Good day Zami,

I enjoyed reading your review of the Seiko Kinetic diver lines a great deal. Seiko really racked-up the various models for each caliber, which was a dream come true to the collector & enthusiast alike at any level, having a virtual smorgasbord of Cuisine ala Kinetic.

Thanks Stratman for such a well done informative review and indepth study as only you know how to do, and if only our 2 friends โ€œTom & Dickโ€ could have seen a few of these in Poseidons war chest, who knows what they would have thought next! LOL

Cheers-
Jimmy

Hi Jimmy,

Thank you for the compliment. ๐Ÿ™‚ Youโ€™ve probably noticed that Seikoโ€™s contemporary designs have radically changed over the years to cater to the new breed of watch buyers. Their marketing strategies have also taken a turn from the good old days. A good example is the beloved SBBN007 โ€œTuna Canโ€ being discontinued only to be โ€œreplacedโ€ with the SBBN015, which I think is grossly overpriced because someone in the marketing division decided that the โ€œMarineMasterโ€ logo and the factory fitted stainless steel bracelet is worth almost 3x the price of the original SBBN007.

Donโ€™t you wish that Seiko maintains the old prices of their watches and their old design philosophies? There are no more SKJ/SMY Kinetic sports watches produced and the SMY001P/003P models are now considered one of Seikoโ€™s best horological legacies. There are no more SKX031K โ€œSubmarinersโ€ and the popular Prospex โ€œTi Samuraiโ€ divers are also history.

Last time I heard, Tom and Dick are still interned at an undisclosed Supermax prison. Apparently Homeland Security felt that breaking into a USMC veteranโ€™s home to rob him of his prized watches is an act of terrorism. ๐Ÿ˜‰

all the best to you and your mum!
Quartzimodo

the article you made was amazing. Iโ€™m thankful for it. Iโ€™m actually considering of buying a NOS SKJ137P1 from a local on-line store, here in Indonesia. I just wondering if the watch was originally assembled in Japan โ€“ not in China nor Malaysia. For my consideration, that would be an added value to the collector

Hi gunkaholic87,

All SKJ-series Kinetic watches, including the SKJ137P model are assembled in Singapore. While there are no Japan-made versions made, the 5M43 Kinetic movement itself is fully imported from Japan. From a collectorโ€™s standpoint, a Seiko watch holds a bit more value only if there are two identical models manufactured at different locations, e.g. the SKX007J diverโ€™s watch (Japan) and the SKX007K (China).

The only 100% Japan made Seikos are generally the high end Seiko models sold exclusively to the Japanese market and certain models, like the 6R20 caliber Premier automatics and the discontinued 9T82 Kinetic chronograph models for the export (non-Japan) market.

hope this answers your question,
Quartzimodo

Hi
This site is a great find well done on the excellent info! I am a Seiko watch
Fan and have 5 various types, a 200m kinetic sports divers I had for my 40th birthday (14 yrs ago!) it has stopped holding charge so have just ordered a new capacitor to fix (I hope) I may eBay it and try to obtain a modern sportura world time ion chrono (SNJ011P1) I think.. Also own a rather old 7A38 chrono which might get sold to finance the new watch itโ€™s not perfect and hasnโ€™t run for a few years but may be worth something, the other Seiko is a LCD memo diary with keypad and that is going for sale too! My daily wearer at the moment is sportura chrono HO 24 SNJ 019P1 quite nice but prefer the black ion version, so if anyone fancies a trade?.. Ha haa

I bought a 5m43 OA40 SN588843 in Phnom Penh in 1995. Cost 200us. It Is exactly like the watch in the picture at the top of this page.
It is a wonderful watch and back to itโ€™s very best after a trip to kinetic watch repairs in the uk. What a service. New ion battery installed and a full service and clean. My watch is scratch free and has the original metal strap which is in brilliants condition. I love this watch and wear it everyday. I donโ€™t think twice jumping into the pool on holidays either as the waterproofing is amazing. On top of all that it keeps perfect time.

I have to say your article is very comprehensive. I just have a question mark over the timings. Mine is a 200m watch and for sure I bought it in 1995. Also I thought I bought mine just as they came out or very close to their launch as the guy in Phnom Penh was at pains to point out to me that the watches were the very latest from Seiko. Can you shed some light. Feel free to ask me any questions.

David

Hi David,

Not many people own the SKJ-series Kinetic Sports 200 and those who did, had ones that were made between 1995 and 2000. Since you purchased yours in 1995 then you must have gotten the earliest batch. It is quite possible that Seiko practiced overlapping production, which meant that the earlier 5M23-series SHF Kinetic Sports 150m models trickled as the (then) new 5M43-series SKJ-series Kinetics were introduced.

If you take your watch for a swim often, have the rubber O-ring seals checked frequently and replaced if necessary (they donโ€™t cost much). Chlorine in swimming pools can make the seals brittle sooner. Also, take care never to push the power reserve button when your watch is wet or submerged in water. Very few Seiko diverโ€™s watches are designed for underwater push button operation; most are not.

Wear your watch in good health! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] rare, and in this near mint cond, a little more rare! I need to get $200. shipped. Thanks. The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten Attached Images ย  ย  ย  ย  Reply With [โ€ฆ]

Hi! Thanks for your post! I have one that looks different than the ones you have photos for. Mine is a 5M63 (I think) and it has โ€œautomatic diverโ€™s 200โ€ printed on it. It is silver, with a silver bezel, and black face. I bought it in New Orleans with no user manual, and had no idea what I had. I paid too much for it; but I really like it. I wondered when it was made, and how much it was worth today. Iโ€™ll try to upload a picture later.
Thanks!!
Mike

Hi Mike,

Thanks for chirping in. I donโ€™t think your Seiko has the 5M63 (or any 5M-series movement for that matter) since you mentioned โ€œAutomaticโ€ print on the dial. This is because Kinetics are of an entirely different movement technology than automatics. Have a look at the behavior of your watchโ€™s second hand โ€“ if does NOT tick in one second intervals, then it is definitely a mechanical or automatic watch. Also, a 5M63 Kinetic watch should have an additional pusher just above the main crown for the power reserve indicator.

cheers,
Quartzimodo

SEIKO SKJ045P 5M43-0B30 Kinetic Titanium Sports 200M
I like this model. If anyone have so let me know pls.

I admit to being a total โ€œSKJ-holicโ€ having been a vintage Rolex/Omega/universal geneve collector for years.
All the mechanicals have been sold, but never the SKJโ€™s.
I currently have 6, and am looking for the SKJ031P to complete the set.
โ€œDagazโ€ is now selling either black or pepsi bezel inserts for the SKJโ€™s based on a bezel I sent him, see the www.10watches.com site.
My titanium SKJ045P has some minor dings/scratches.
Anyone with advice of its re-polishing using wet/dry paper etc.

Although over the years I have owned large number of varied vintage Rolex/omegaโ€™s/polerouters/breitlings etc, I have become a total โ€œskj-holicโ€.
My current count is 7 (2 of SKJ004P)including the two titanium models 048P/045P.
I am looking for the last, the blue 031P to complete the collection.
Bezel inserts are now available from 10watches.com and are based on the insert from my 045P.
I have found the best method to polish the titaniums to be patience and wet/dry paper and finally a good metal polish.
Anyone have the 031P they wish to sell.?
Regards

I have a SMY003P which i purchased in dec 2003 and have only worn on a couple of occasions in 2004. It is boxed with all its original documents etc. Would you be interested in it?

In the spsace of 7 days, i have managed to obtain in superb condition the following:
1, uber rare SKJ0137P silver bezel insert and jade dial.
2, the blue bezel/blue dial SKJ031P.
My collection is now complete.!!!!

Originally Posted By amhosib
In the spsace of 7 days, i have managed to obtain in superb condition the following:
1, uber rare SKJ0137P silver bezel insert and jade dial.
2, the blue bezel/blue dial SKJ031P.
My collection is now complete.!!!!

Hi amhosib,

Congratulations on finding the elusive SKJ031P and the SKJ013P Kinetic Sports 200s. ๐Ÿ™‚ There arenโ€™t many people that I know who really appreciate these models.

If I may gently suggest, you might want to get the Seiko YT-02A charger since you now own lots of Kinetics. It is the only practical way of getting all of your SKJs fully charged at all times.

cheers,
Quartzimodo

Gโ€™day Quartzimodo,

Top marks for an oustanding review. You really have done your homework with excellent results. I cannot thank you enough for the information you have provided me here.

I wear an SKJ045P ever day and have worn it since my purchase about 6 years ago. It has been the best watch I have ever owned and I am still very proud to place it on my wrist every morning.

Thank you again and hopefully I can continue to wear my SKJ045P for another 6 yearsโ€ฆ

Cheers

Gโ€™day Bruce,

Congratulations on owning a rare but solid timepiece in the SKJ045P. Itโ€™s a cracker of a watch but very few people appreciate it. Seiko made only one other titanium model, the blue and gold SKJ048P, which is a bit cheesy looking.

Poor worldwide sales of the titanium SKJ series models may have caused Seiko to carry forward only selected stainless steel models into their successor SMY-series Kinetics with the updated 5M62 movement.

Fair dinkum, mate? Youโ€™ve got a collectible and rare Seiko there on your wrist. Sโ€™truth and Iโ€™d get one myself if I could find another like it at the local retailers.

Wear your SKJ045P in good health! ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,
Quartzimodo

Cher Quartzimodo,
Je tiens ร  vous remercier pour tous les renseignements et informations concernant les Seiko Kinetics, je les ai trouvรฉs trรจs utiles dans le choix de ma derniรจre acquisition, ร  savoir une SKJ045P or 5M43-0A40.
Cordialement,

Yours truly,Pseikopath โ€ฆ

Salut Jean Pierre,

Merci pour les commentaires et jโ€™espรจre que vous trouverez jouissance รฉternelle de porter votre titane Seiko Kinetic SKJ045P montre. Ce modรจle est assez difficile ร  trouver ces jours-ci que Seiko fait les en petites quantitรฉs.

acclamations,
Quartzimodo

Hello, Iโ€™m impressed by the level of detailโ€ฆ and a bit surprised to find as many people sharing interest in these watches. Iโ€™ve been trying to find some information and aproximate value on a 5M43 OA18 T 2 (Stainless and Gold . I wore the watch daily for several years; but, itโ€™s been sitting for several years since my wife bought me a new โ€˜favoriteโ€™ watch. Any ideas on a value? It works great and keeps perfect time. Thanks!

Hi John,

Actually when it comes to Seiko identification, we use the caliber/caseback type (found on the rear watchโ€™s caseback) and not the dial code. While the caliber remains the same, the caseback code and dial codes are almost always different. Seiko can make dozens of different variations based on a single caseback type. Therefore, I need the caseback code to identify your Seiko Kinetic to its exact type.

cheers,
Quartzimodo

hi all, I inherited my grandads watch which i put in the loft and forgot about. Iโ€™ve just stumbled across it now and googled it and hey presto! I ended up here. Its a SKJ004p1. black and gold face. Im not really a watch collector or anything so thought Iโ€™d ask for some info on it. (more out of curiosity than anything else) the serial no is 558136 and according to the guarantee certificate it was bought in 2004 at โ€œactive watch (hk) limitedโ€. Its barely been out of the box (im not a big fan of gold) so is pretty much in pristine condition on the outside. It seems to tick twice every two seconds so im guessing the inside is a different matter however. Any info anyone has on this would be much appreciated.

I havent decided whether to keep it or sell it to someone who appreciates it more.

Hi northernmonkey,

Wow, your granddad sure has good taste! The gold plated SKJ004P is a very nice watch and is also a rare bird. Your granddad bought a NOS piece (or โ€œNew Old Stockโ€) because Seiko had long stopped making this model by 2004, at the time this watch was purchased. The original production date of your watch is May 1995.

A rarely worn Kinetic watch will slowly deplete its charge over a few months (for those fitted with a lithium ion rechargeable cell) if not actively worn, therefore when the second hand ticks in two-second increments, it means it needs charging ASAP. If you donโ€™t like the factory fitted, blingy gold plated Jubilee bracelet you can always substitute it with a brown leather strap. Brown is probably the most matching color for a gold colored watch and complements gold color nicely.

Why not wear it for a few months and see if you like it? ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

Hey thanks for that info. You would never guess its 17years old!! I would probably like to keep the watch as original as possible so will leave it as it is for now. I contemplated wearing it for a bit but due to my job and 2 young daughters it would probably get beaten up pretty quickly. I know its a shame to leave it lying in a box somewhere instead of enjoying it but I really dont want to get it all scratched up if I decide to sell it on. Although thereโ€™s always the chance i wake up one day and decide i like wearing gold. I assumed it was slightly rare as i cant find one for sale anywhere, Iโ€™m not even sure how much the thing is worth to be honest.

Hi northernmonkey,

OK, I understand your concerns in keeping that SKJ004P Sports 200 as pristine as possible. Try to find an unused watch box and store the watch in it, preferably with a few pieces of desiccated silica gel in the watch box to absorb moisture in the air. I would propose that you wear this watch on formal occasions and take it off whenever youโ€™re doing something that can risk scratching the watch, e.g. working on a car engine where thereโ€™s metal parts everywhere that can scrape the watch.

As for the value of your watch, one that has its outer gold plating worn off (revealing its bare steel surface underneath) with some scratches on its Sapphlex crystal usually go for USD110 on the used market. A well kept, pristine SKJ004P would easily be double of that and maxing out around USD300.

Quartzimodo

Hello Quartzimodo, Iโ€™ve just bought (for unbelievable 70โ‚ฌ) a SHF047P (5M23-6B50), SN 478XXX from someone who got it in 1995 and weared it only a few times. Then he recognized that he is no โ€œwatch-wearerโ€ he put it away, forgot it and found it again when he moved into another house. He sold it through a newspaper-ad. The watch is near mint, has still the blue plastic on its back and started immediatly as I shook it. If You are intersted, Iโ€™ll make some Photos for You, but it may take some time.

Hi Werner,

Congratulations on finding a mint condition SHF047P for just 70 Euros! You can post a picture of it if you wish, using TinyPic.com to host the image and I can update this page with the photo and giving you credit for it. ๐Ÿ™‚ Your watch is from July 1994 for certain. Itโ€™s very rare to find one in like new condition and wear it in good health. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] but demand a premium price depending on the condition. Here is a nice writeup on the SKJ kenetics: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten Reply With [โ€ฆ]

That was a very interesting write up. I came across it after searching for a replacement capacitor for my Seiko Kinetic. I still have the original battery in the watch and have worn it every day since I bought it in Germany to replace my very heavy Rolex Sea Dweller.
I was very pleased to read about the uber rare titanium version. this I think is my everyday watch.
The model says 5M43 0B30 Titanium( in red) Sports 200,serial no 503772, still same bracelet โ€“ I am a very hands on engineer and if it is worth a lot I might retire it from combat.
If you can advise me on the battery model and whether it is a DIY job to change I would appreciate it very much

Hi asgard,

OMG. I hope you wonโ€™t think me of being rude for not replying, but I am really, terribly sorry for not checking whether my reply appeared in the comment section. ๐Ÿ™ Iโ€™m sure I did reply months ago but my comments to you are not showing up in my blog for some odd reason.

Anyway, Seiko no longer sells replacement capacitors although some online battery sellers may still stock on them. Early 5M43 based watches were fitted with capacitors while later models were upgraded to the Maxell TC-920S rechargeable lithium ion cell. Seiko makes available the replacement LiOn cell kit with the part code 30235MZ, which is available from several Internet based dealers.

Reto Castellazzi, who runs the popular Poor Manโ€™s Watch Forum published an easy DIY guide on how to replace a Kinetic watch battery. Although he described the Maxell TC-920S as a โ€œcapacitorโ€, technically this is incorrect, as a capacitors and rechargeable batteries are not of the same chemistry.

Once again, I humbly apologize for any inconvenience caused to you.

best regards,
Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] the job & replacement caseback gasket. There is a good article from Quartzimodo about these Seiko kinetic divers you might find interesting. Attached Images ย  SKX781 โ€“ 6309-7040 (6105 Mod) โ€“ [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] โ€“ is it the same as a SKJ003P? As you've seen yes it is an SKJ diver, a nice model from 97. You might find this article interesting, but unfortunately you can't get alternative bracelets for it as it has different shaped lugs to [โ€ฆ]

Iโ€™ve got a Seiko Titanium, 5M43-0B30, Serial No. 723821 โ€“ It looks like the SKJ045P you have on the article.

Iโ€™ve had the watch for about at least a decade (I think) and although the watch face, body, bezel etc are all in excellent condition, the strap seems to have loosened, and stretched a little, with a couple of links having some deformation.

Not sure how best to describe the strap, but it is a mix of solid links, and formed half circles. From left to right across the strap the layout is solid-formed-solid-formed-solid

Where would the best place to get get a replacement strap for this watch (obviously still titanium) and what options are available in the solid link type โ€“ I think you refer to them as Oyster type on your article.

Any help you could offer would be appreciated.

Many thanks,

Justin

Hi Justin,

I apologize for the late reply. The bracelets that are fitted to the discontinued SKJ and SMY-series sports Kinetics are actually the Rolex Jubilee type with solid links and not Oyster. You can find Jubilee-styled bracelets fitted to some SKX007K watches but theyโ€™re not exactly the same model as the one for the SKJ-series watches. Seiko never made any titanium Oyster bracelets but only in stainless steel form โ€“ not any that I know of.

I presume that youโ€™re from the U.K, from your computerโ€™s IP address. If so, you can place an order with your local Seiko UK service center and quote P/N: 4400-LZ for a replacement bracelet. Iโ€™m not sure what the procedure is like to order a replacement bracelet for Seiko UK; therefore get in touch with them either via email or calling them personally. For instance, if they donโ€™t allow end users to directly buy replacement parts from them, you may have to place an order through an appointed Seiko dealer.

hope this helps! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

Hi Quarti,

Thanks for coming back to me.

I contacted Seiko UK, and they confirmed that the strap has been discontinued, and basically there is nothing they can do for me!? So, theyโ€™re returning the watch.

Now at a bit of a loss what to do, as I would have liked to keep the watch as original as possible, and therefore do not want to put a different aftermarket strap on it (although looking into this, titanium divers watch straps are also hard to find!)

Iโ€™m contemplating selling the watch, on ebay, but not sure what reserve to set it at? Does anyone have any suggestions?

Hi Justin,

I donโ€™t know if Seiko UK had actually contacted Seiko Japan for the braceletโ€™s availability. Although the bracelet itself has been out of production, itโ€™s possible that old stock ones are available in the Seiko parts warehouse in Japan or lying around in some Seiko service centerโ€™s store room in another country. The problem is that Seiko service centers do not have a centralized parts database nor do they communicate with one another if they run out of certain parts.

For example, if Iโ€™m trying to get a replacement part for one of my watches and Seiko Malaysia doesnโ€™t have it, the company will not seek help from the Seiko service centers in Thailand or Singapore. For that matter, I doubt if Seiko UK will liaise with Seiko France or Germany either.

Hereโ€™s what you can do:

1. Post a Want To Buy (WTB) ad for a used bracelet of the same type on the Seiko & Citizen Trading Post.
2. Contact Seiko Japan directly through this electronic form and request for the bracelet.

Failing that, you might want to explore sporty carbon fiber straps for your watch. For example, I didnโ€™t like the factory titanium bracelet for my Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster Tough 4ร—4 and the first thing that I did was to replace the bracelet with a nice chequered pattern, carbon fiber strap. If your watch carries sentimental value to you, why not give it a new lease of life and look for the right strap instead? You might grow to like it! ๐Ÿ™‚

If youโ€™re still adamant on selling off your watch, hereโ€™s what someone sold his SKJ045P for. And that is with the original bracelet intact, therefore expect a lower price if youโ€™re selling only the watch head.

Quartzimodo

Hi Quartzimodo,

I have a 5M43-0A40 SKJ001P model and I would like to sell it. Could you please tell me what the function of the smaller tone is? I would like to explain it to the potencial buyers in case they ask. Thank you for help in advance.

Hugo

Hi Spadsafo,

Iโ€™m not sure what you mean by โ€œsmaller toneโ€. If youโ€™re referring to the small push button above the main crown, thatโ€™s the watchโ€™s power reserve indication system. You push it once and the sweep second hand will swing forwards. The estimated capacitor or rechargeable battery reserve will be indicated by how far the second hand swings. If it travels 180 degrees forward (or 30 seconds) it means that the power reserve is between 75-100% full.

You can find the instruction manual explaining how to read the watchโ€™s remaining charge in this PDF manual.

Quartzimodo.

Great site!!!!! Iโ€™ve owned a two tone skj since 1995 and just recently bought another three. Iโ€™m hooked! These are great watches and I wouldnโ€™t be without mine. Iโ€™m just waiting on my two tone titanium to arrive. Iโ€™m looking to collect the full set. I also own a few other seiko automatics including a 1977 bellmatic. Glad to see others that are interested in these great watches. Was a joy to find this site. Cheers.

Hi John,

Thanks for your comments. I apologize for the late reply as Iโ€™ve been away. As you already know, Seiko made only two versions of the titanium SKJ Sports 200 models: the SKJ045P and the gold accented, SKJ048P that youโ€™re anticipating. If you plan on owning the entire range of the Sports 200 Kinetics, Iโ€™d strongly suggest that you buy the Seiko YT-04A Kinetic Energy Supplier (AC charger) to keep all of their capacitors (or LiOn batteries) charged at all times.

The titanium models came with a high price tag and they werenโ€™t that popular. Consequently their final successor โ€“ the SMY-series Kinetic 200m sports models, Seiko dispensed with the titanium versions and reduced the number of models to only two: the SMY001P (black dial) and the SMY003P (deep blue, Pepsi colored bezel). The SKJ/SMY Sports 200m models are very nice looking and eye-catching timepieces and one of the very few Seiko models that were fitted with the hybrid Sapphlex (Sapphire/Hardlex) crystal. The solid linked, Jubilee-styled bracelet was top notch and itโ€™s a pity Seiko doesnโ€™t make anymore of these watches.

cheers,
Quartzimodo

Hi again. Hope you can shed some light on this question. Iโ€™m looking at two Pepsi skj divers. However one has a black face and one has a blue face. I know the Smy comes with a blue face as my son has one, but both the watches Iโ€™m looking at are sports 200 models. Thanks for any help you can give me. Cheers John.

Hi John,

As far as I know, Seiko made only ONE version for the 5M43-0A10 (Kinetic Sports 200) with the red/blue Pepsi bezel: the SKJ003P (the replacement SMY003P was modeled after the SKJ003P). There never was a black dialed model with a Pepsi bezel, unless the original owner had replaced the bezel with a Pepsi colored one; OR it was originally an SKJ003P with the dial changed to that of the black SKJ001P. If the watch is pre-owned, this is not really surprising. All the bezel insert colors are interchangeable with one another and some people like to mod their watches to give them a unique look. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,
Quartzimodo.

Thanks a lot for this article, very interesting and to-the-point overview!

BTW, in case you want to include some real-life pictures of an SHF045P, there is currently one for sale in the german uhrforum: uhrforum.de/seltene-seiko-shf045p-kinetic-sports-150-in-schwarz-t118491

If you want, I can contact the seller for you via forum PM to ask him if itโ€™s OK to share his photos.

The offer linked above was also how I found this article and your site in general, as I was searching for some informations on this particular watch.
After reading here, I think the best choice would be to go for a SKJ model and upgrade to the Li-Ion battery. ๐Ÿ™‚

Best,

flo

Hello flo,

Thanks for the comments and for the offer to contact the seller of the SHF045P. ๐Ÿ™‚

Itโ€™s quite all right, thereโ€™s no need for additional photos because it would make the page load even more slowly. I donโ€™t want to overload my blog pages with too many images unless itโ€™s absolutely necessary and as you can see, the SHF045P isnโ€™t that much cosmetically different than its direct successor, the SKJ045P. All these watches share the same Jubilee-design bracelets, right up to the final SMY-series 200m models.

Some SKJ Kinetic 200m watches were already pre-installed with lithium ion rechargeable cells and thereโ€™s a good chance of getting one with the LiOn instead of the old capacitor. I would advise to change to a new LiOn cell only when itโ€™s impossible to get the power reserve indicator to swing even to the 20-second mark after several attempts to recharge it to the max, using the Kinetic Energy Supplier charger. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,
Quartzimodo

Hi again all, Ok so iโ€™ve decided to sell my SKJ004P1 (Black/Gold). Been looking at various forums and sites. If anyone is interested or would like some pictures let me know. Its in excellent condition save for a few light scratches on the bracelet. Comes with original box and certificate. Currently not working as its sat in the box for years so will need charged or upgraded

Thanks

I own a 1st generation Sports 200 (stainless & gold) with movement # 5M43-OB40. Have any idea what a fair market value?

[โ€ฆ] smooth lines that I find emblematic of Seiko divers. Great review of this watch can be read here: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten There is some minimal wear but overall this watch is in excellent condition. The Pictures should [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] smooth lines that I find emblematic of Seiko divers. Great review of this watch can be read here: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten There is some minimal wear but overall this watch is in excellent condition. The Pictures should [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] scratch on underside near lug. Original box and warranty card. Link to watch review and details:The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten $200 Paypaled and shipped CONUS. No trades. Referrals available from my last sales upon request. [โ€ฆ]

Hi Quartzimodo
Brilliant site and review! I own a SKJ 5M43 which I bought in February 1996. It had a black dial and bezel which I stopped for the Pepsi bezel (kept the black bezel). The capacitors were replaced too and the strap became over stretched and was replaced with something similar (Seiko strap, probably their newer range). The back case is scratched (not very deep) but I was advised that polishing it would make the Wave and lettering a faint! What should I do โ€“ leave the scratches as-is or polish it?

Iโ€™m so glad I stumbled on your website! I never knew that a watch I bought as a daily used Rolex Sub (which I own) would someday be a collectorโ€™s watch!! Compared to my Rolex, I prefer the Seiko Diverโ€™s Kinetic to the Rolex for its better accuracy, more comfortable feel and itโ€™s day display! The luminosity is also much better โ€“ brighter and longer lasting!

The Seiko Diverโ€™s Kinetic will always remain an accidental prized collection and I will never part with it! Hopefully someday I can pass it to my son to wear (and in turn he would pass it on to his children as an heirloom!)

Keep up your great and informative blog!

Best Regards
Dennis
Singapore

The Kinetic diver is alive and well in 2014 with a new 5M85 movement(as is my 5m43):

www.watchesbysjx.com/2014/03/baselworld-2014-presenting-seiko.html

Hi uys,
Thanks for the heads up. Itโ€™s been well over a decade since the 5M6x Kinetic movement was made and Seiko has finally updated this long-running Kinetic caliber with the 5M8x series. The GMT feature is not new the 5M85 caliber; Seiko first used the 5M45 Kinetic GMT for the limited edition Prospex โ€œPipinโ€ diverโ€™s model in the late 1990s and added the 5M65 caliber for the SUNxxxP Kinetic GMT models towards the late 2000s.
Iโ€™ve yet to investigate the internal differences between the now discontinued, 5M62 and the 5M82 Kinetics. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

Both this and kinetic articles are great, thanks for your TIME (lol).

I have about twenty+ watches in my collection and my favorite (by far) is my SKJ045P. Caseback: 5M43-0B30 AO sn: 5D5494, face: Movโ€™t JAPAN 5M43-0B70 T 2. Card that came with watch has 28 July 2004. I were this one by far the most of all my watches. Can still get the full charge (30 sec) out of it after a day and great time keeper with no service done at all. Assume this is a LI-ion cell? And does that date sound right?

Thanks

Hi MJK,

Sorry for the late reply as I just got to sitting down to answer a bagful of questions from my readers. ๐Ÿ™‚
The SKJ045P is a rare titanium cased Kinetic Sports 200 which Seiko released sometime from the middle and towards the late 1990s. Only two versions of this model were made from titanium โ€“ the SKJ045P and the gold plated, SKJ048P. Both watches were likely to have been fitted with the Matsushita/Panasonic capacitor instead of the Maxell TC-920S high capacity, lithium ion rechargeable cell. Thereโ€™s no way to determine whether your Seiko is still using its original capacitor unless you open up the caseback and inspect the rechargeable capacitor (or lithium ion cell).
A serial number for your particular model beginning with โ€œ5Dโ€ points out that the date of manufacture is December 1995. Since the warranty card states the watch was purchased on July 2004, it means that the timepiece sat unsold for about 8 years and 7 months before someone finally bought it. ๐Ÿ™‚ The SKJ-series Kinetics were long discontinued by the year 2004, trust me on this.
Donโ€™t worry about the internal Kinetic Energy Storage Unit (KESU), as Seiko likes to call it. As long as it can maintain a full charge for nearly a week off the wrist, thereโ€™s no need to have the KESU replaced. Youโ€™ll know itโ€™s TIME to replace the capacitor (or LiOn cell) when you notice its energy reserve dropping rapidly within a span of 3-4 days on the wrist.

I like to use the automotive lead acid battery in a car as an analogy. Most car owners donโ€™t change their battery until they notice difficulties in starting (in warm weather) and their headlamps going dim when the motor is idling. It would be a waste of money to replace a car battery every six to nine months, unless something is really wrong with it (like a defective battery). So go ahead and enjoy your SKJ045P in good health โ€“ never mind if itโ€™s using a capacitor or the rechargeable lithium ion cell. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] Diver โ€” 5M43 Kinetic movement. background info on this model and others in the series here: quartzimodo.com/the-skj-kinetโ€ฆnot-forgotten/ hard to come by and not often seen for sale. I have a few and I am letting go of the 2 tone and [โ€ฆ]

[โ€ฆ] this: The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten ~ Overly Enthusiastic Watch Noob ~ My current collection: [โ€ฆ]

Hi,
I am very impressed with your answers which you had given on this page. I am owner of Seiko Kinetic Sports 200 watch with serial no.543736 & 5M43-0A 40. I want to know its manufacturing date and its approximately current price. Please respond. Iโ€™m eagerly waiting.
Thanx.

Hi Ajay,

Your Seiko 5M43-0A40 Kinetic is definitely from April 1995. It cannot be from 2005 because by then, Seiko had already stopped making your exact model and had also upgraded the old 5M43 caliber to the 5M63 model by the year 2002.

I am sorry I cannot tell you offhand what your watch is worth. Please Google or search eBay for using the keywords โ€œ5M43-0A40โ€, โ€œSKJ001Pโ€ or โ€œSKJ003Pโ€ for the latest market prices. Good luck! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

[โ€ฆ] about these Seiko Kinetics, put up by another forum buddy, StratMan II, aka Quartzimodo, aka Zami: The SKJ Kinetic Divers: Gone but not forgotten In any case, here is another 2005 Seiko Kinetic Diver, another "Pepsi" SKJ003, on it's [โ€ฆ]

I have a 5M63 OA10 that was purchased new. Had to replace the bezel ring and and had it serviced once. Great watch. Extremely accurate and more handsome than the Rolex product. Have a spare band should original one fail.

Hi Alan,

Thatโ€™s great news to know there are quite a few Seiko SKJ/SMY 200m Kinetic watch enthusiasts out there! ๐Ÿ™‚ Itโ€™s a good idea to keep a spare bracelet with you; although itโ€™s highly improbable youโ€™d need to replace it soon. Seiko seldom makes lots of replacement bands for models that arenโ€™t as popular and when their supplies run out, youโ€™ll have to make do with a third party type bracelet.

By and large, quartz regulated watches tend to keep accurate time when theyโ€™re regularly worn on the wrist. I donโ€™t wear my Kinetics as often as I would like to (as I have nearly 90 timepieces in my collection) and they were frequently run down when not worn for months. I will have to replace all of their lithium ion cells soon as they arenโ€™t keeping a decent charge any longer.

Wear your SMY001/003/005 watch in good health! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

Thanks Quartzimodo. I have a 5M43-0A50 Kinetic. Your clear explanation of the type of movement clarify the year which my Seiko is made.

Thanks Quartzimodo, i found my grandfathers watch recently and was looking everywhere to find out what it was, its an SHF048P but with french / english days, big surprise.

Hi Nathan,

Youโ€™re very welcome. Keep that vintage SHF048P with the gold accents. The English/French day-of-week calendar makes it even rarer still! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

i definitely will.

Hi Quartzimodo,

I really enjoyed your write up on the Seiko SKJ Divers watches, all the more so because it appears I have that rare one, the SKJ045P (Titanium Grey 200m Kinetic).
I bought the timepiece new, many years ago on a holiday to the Canary Island of Tenerife and until today, have wondered why I never saw any for sale on ebay etc. I have several other watches but have always drifted back to my Seiko Titanium โ€œSKJโ€ โ€“ perhaps because it is a rather good likeness of a 1960s Rolex Submariner apart from the day / date window. I had planned to buy a watch โ€œbornโ€ the same year as me but a 1965 Rolex was starting at $11k ! So I make do with my Seiko. I have had the watch serviced once and they charged me for replacing the capacitor which I was not happy about at the time!

Kind Regards
Joe

Hi Joe,

Thanks for commenting and sharing your thoughts on the SKJ045P Kinetic Sports 200. ๐Ÿ™‚

It is a rare bird and was probably considered to be on the expensive side when it was first marketed.

I think the service center actually did you a favor by replacing the capacitor. ๐Ÿ™‚ That is, if they found the original one to have started to leak and/or losing its capability to hold a decent reserve power. If you discovered that your watch shows at least a 75% reserve power for more than two months in storage then they must have upgraded the original capacitor to the Maxell TC-920S rechargeable lithium ion cell.

Be aware that rechargeable lithium ion cells will not last forever; at some point in time it will need to be replaced again. The titanium surfaces of the watch โ€“ especially the watch band is very susceptible to scuffing, therefore take care not to accidentally scrape your watch against hard surfaces. Unlike brushed stainless steel, brushed titanium is very difficult to buff to its original (unscratched) condition.

The Kinetic Sports 200 series still remain attractive looking timepieces to this day. Seiko no longer makes watches that resemble the Rolex Sub; probably due to litigation threats from the Rolex company. Even Orient has ceased to make their popular Rolex-like model 2ER0001B, which resembles the Submariner more than the SKJ045P does. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo

Hi all,

Iโ€™m now looking for a Seiko SKJ045 is it possible to get one?

I am seeking this seiko skj045p the one that you reviewed.
If anyone want to pass it on. Please let me know.

[email protected]

On the dial of my SEIKO Diver SKJ169P1, kaliber 5M43 (0C90) didnโ€™t stand โ€œSportsโ€. Dial text โ€œKinetic Water Resist 200mโ€ like the 3rd generation with kaliber 5M63.

photo of the dail:
medium.com/@JensV/repariert-statt-neu-gekauft-4e5f6bb7a324#.2rt5por6h

It seems like Seiko change the text during the production of the 2nd generation.

My watch got a new clock work these days โ€“ I hope it will be work 20 years again.

Jens

Hello Jens,

Thank you for that interesting bit of information! ๐Ÿ™‚

Yes, apparently with the SKJ169P model Seiko used the text โ€œKinetic 200mโ€ on the dial but the company probably didnโ€™t intend to market this watch as the earlier โ€œSports 200โ€ Kinetic series. I guess only the marketing people at Seiko at the time knows why they made the change. The watch case may be similar to that of the SKJ001P/SMY001P but the SKJ169Pโ€™s dial and hands are totally different.

Congratulations on your new Kinetic movement; with proper care your watch should last you for the next 20 years. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo.

[โ€ฆ] condition, especially the Emerald dial SKJ137. More details of this collector's piece in this link The SKJ Kinetic divers: gone but not forgotten $475 by paypal including worldwide EMS post. I have lots of positive feedback so you can buy with [โ€ฆ]

with the second generation skj you forgot or decided not to include the white dial skj167 and skj170 m43-0b20 and m43-0c90 respectively
(i have bought a repair oe for peanuts and made it to work great with low investment relatively)
i am happy with it. it was even tested to be water tight!

HI amnon,

Thanks for your input, much appreciated. At the time when I originally wrote the article, I may have missed the SKJ167P and SKJ170P as I didnโ€™t have photos of both of them. I have to correct you that the SKJ170Pโ€™s caseback code is officially โ€œ5M43-0D20โ€, while the SKJ167P is โ€œ5M43-0C90โ€. Perhaps you have made a typo in your comment or that both casebacks are physically similar that they could have been interchanged somehow. ๐Ÿ™‚

enjoy both Kinetics!
Quartzimodo Admin.

Hi Quartzimodo,
Thanks for the great article. I have had a SKJ001P since 1999. My dad who has since passed away bought me the watch for my 21st birthday. We chose it together and so it means an awful lot to me. It is good to read that other people enjoy these watches as much.
I had the capacitor replaced around 8 years ago but other than that itโ€™s needed no maintenance and I have worn it every day for 18 years!
I am researching new straps as the current one is getting very loose. It seems they are a bit difficult to track down in the UK now! Could you offer any advice?
Thanks,
Paul

Hi Paul MacDonough,

Great to know that your Seiko Kinetic Sports 200 is still running fine after your last capacitor replacement. ๐Ÿ™‚

The SKJ001P uses a 22mm solid linked, stainless steel Jubilee styled band with the model code 43M5-JZ. This bracelet has also been used in identical models like the SKJ003P, SKJ137P, SMY001P and SMY003P therefore any replacement bracelets that are meant for the models I mentioned will be an exact fit.

I found one online seller that advertised the 43M5-JZ replacement band but they donโ€™t have fresh stocks at the time of writing. Hereโ€™s an alternative Jubilee bracelet from an Amazon seller which is advertised to fit the 7s26-0020 diver family but is patterned after the 43M5-JZ.

Although that replacement Jubilee bracelet has the same 22mm lug width and curved end links, I cannot confirm 100% if it will fit nicely on your SKJ001P. Youโ€™ll have to ask the seller if does. ๐Ÿ™‚

cheers,
Quartzimodo Admin

Hi I have a seik6 5m43 oa48 skj001 serial no 860187 in good condition and wanting to sell it, would anyone know where a good place to sell it? I live in the UK thanks.

Hi Michael,

Advertising your watch on eBay will reach the widest audience possible, but if youโ€™re targeting a select target group you might want to try advertising in watch forums such as this one. Note that the Seiko & Citizen Watch Forum trading site requires you to be a member and participate in discussions for at least fifty posts before allowing you to sell your watch on their site.

Seiko Kinetic Sports 200m watches like the SKJ001P are relatively easy to sell in watch forums.

Hope this helps,
Quartzimodo

i found that page just by luck.liked your passion for seiko watches.im one of the lucky owners of 1st gen. seiko kinetic.SHF047P.this specific piece is very rare to find at least in working state,fully functional,good serviced.btw i have never had problems with the capacitor.these watches are being made to be worn.thats why i still have it on my wrist for over 23 years.my opinion is that is a very underrated watch..

Hi Kostas,

Great to know that your Seiko Sports 150 Kinetic is running fine to this day. ๐Ÿ™‚

I find it ironic that Seiko replaced the original capacitor to that of the rechargeable lithium ion cell, citing premature problems with the capacitor. While it is true that some of the early capacitors leaked, at least the ones that did not leak, seem to enjoy a much longer working life than the TC-920S lithium ion cell. Lithium ion batteries, like any other rechargeable batteries have a finite number of charge/discharge cycles and they donโ€™t like to be fully discharged.

Unfortunately the bane of any quartz based (or non-mechanical) watch is that they can be very difficult to repair, and in many cases require the entire movement to be replaced. If Seiko still makes replacement modules for your SHF047P you can continue wearing this watch for virtually a lifetime.

cheers,
Quartzimodo Admin.

im trying to post but after doing it i cant see my comment..

Hi Kostas,

All first time commenters will have their posts held in queue for my approval. This is to prevent spam comments from appearing on this blog site. Believe me, I get flooded with lots of automated spam comments every week. ๐Ÿ™‚

yours sincerely,
Quartzimodo Admin.

Absolutely no prob for me,QModo,im always typing in real time,so no worries.

Hi Quartzimodo,

I own an SHF047P (5M23-6B50) which I bought it when I got my real job after graduating in the 90th. For the last 10 years it has been in the drawer until I read this excellent article.

I changed the capacitor but Iโ€™m not happy with the reserve and want to replace the 5M23 with a better one. Do you know if the 5M23 could be replaced by e.g. the 5M63?

Thanks
Martin

Hi Martin,

Thatโ€™s a really great question. Actually the 5M23 movement CAN use the Maxell TC-920S lithium ion cell, but youโ€™ll need to order the entire clamp and insulator assembly requires upgrading.

You canโ€™t just substitute the lithium ion cell like that using the existing battery clamp and insulator assembly โ€“ that is for the GC920 capacitor. Contact the nearest Seiko service center and request for the Seiko 3023 5MZ upgrade kit, which consists the new lithium ion cell, clamp and insulator assembly kit. Do note that you may need to swing the watch for literally, thousands of times in order to get it fully charged. The short cut is of course, investing in the Seiko YT-02A Kinetic Energy supplier induction charger. ๐Ÿ™‚

Iโ€™m not sure if the 5M23 and the 5M63 are directly interchangeable โ€“ this is something youโ€™ll need to verify with the Seiko service center. Some Seiko repair centers may refuse movement upgrades as they have a policy to exchange a defective movement with the exact caliber, i.e, 5M23โ€“>5M23, 5M43โ€“>5M43, 5M63โ€“>5M63. Doesnโ€™t hurt to ask, but the cost of the movement transplant may be steep.

Bear in mind that if you wish to sell the watch someday, some collectors simply donโ€™t like modified movements in a watch. They insist on the watch being as original as possible. ๐Ÿ™‚

Hope this helps!
Quartzimodo Admin.

Hi Quartzimodo,

I own an SHF047P (5M23-6B50) which I bought it when I got my real job after graduating in the 90th. For the last 10 years, it has been in the drawer until I read this excellent article.

I changed the capacitor but Iโ€™m not happy with the reserve and want to replace the 5M23 with a better one. Do you know if the 5M23 could be replaced by e.g. the 5M63?

Thanks
Martin

Hi
As a SKJ fan i value this page highly very good written!
Owning two 048Ps and Nos137P also Nos 004P and Nos skj 115 the US 003P model.
Wich part number on Seikos Oyster/President bracelets works on these skj cases you mentioned?
Also if anyone know where to find spare links to the 048P titanium bracelet Cousins Uk have discontinued it.
//Regards

Hi SkJwatchi,

I apologize for the late response to your questions. I have never asked the owner of those Kinetics about the โ€œaftermarketโ€ (non factory fitted) Oyster and President stainless steel bands which he used, but I would hazard a guess that the 22mm Seiko 3308-JZ President bracelet, which is found on the SKXA53/55K โ€œBulletโ€ automatic divers will fit. Practically any 22mm Oyster band will fit your SKJ137P Kinetic, like the 48A2-JG for instance. There is a good possibility that Seiko still has stock of the two 22mm bracelets but if the service center says otherwise, you might want to look at the so-called โ€œSuper Oystersโ€ like in this review.

As for the spare links for your titanium SKJ048P watch band, youโ€™ll have to post a WTB (Want to Buy) ad in any watch forum. In my experience very few people collect the SKJ/SMY Kinetic sports watches, with the titanium versions even fewer still. Itโ€™s a long shot, but you might want to inquire with the Seiko UK Service Center if they are able to place an order for the titanium bracelet from Japan.

good luck,
Quartzimodo Admin

Hi Quartzimodo,

I replaced the movement on my SHF047P (5M23-6B50) with an 5M63. Now it has a great reserve. Nearly perfect because I still need a new bezel. So far I only see some for 5M43-0A40 & 5M63-01A0 . Do you know if these fit also to the SHF047P case?

Thanks
Martin

Hi Martin,

As far as I know, the rotating bezels for the SKJ003P and SMY003P are identical (P/N:86311884) but the one for the SHF047P carries a different part number (P/N:86311645). The only difference I can see is that, the bezels for the first generation (SHF series) Kinetic 150m models donโ€™t have the lumed dot at the 12 oโ€™clock position. Itโ€™s just a plain triangle marker.

I have a feeling that Seiko would not spend money making the bezels for the SKJ003P and SMY003Ps mechanically different (remember, they share a common bezel), therefore in theory the Pepsi bezel for the SKJ/SMY 003P will also fit your watch. Itโ€™s best to consult your nearest Seiko service center for further advice, in case the SKJ/SMY rotating bezel has a different bezel groove. Iโ€™d wager that the bezel #86311884 will fit but then you also want to be sure that you are paying for an item that will fit the SHF047P. ๐Ÿ™‚

Good luck!
Quartzimodo

Hi Quartzimodo,

the 86311884 bezel does not fit on SHF047P. The 86311645 bezel is a bout 1mm thinner than the 86311884 bezel.

Cheers
Martin

Hi Martin,

Thank you for the additional information, much appreciated. ๐Ÿ™‚ The first generation SHF-series Sports 150m Kinetics are extremely uncommon and at the time I wrote the article, no one has actually posted an in-depth comparison of the SKJ/SMY series vs the SHF series models in any watch forum. Most of the discussions relating to this line of Kinetics were pertaining to the โ€œSports 200โ€ (SKJ) or the โ€œWater Resist 200mโ€ (SMY), like the SMY003P which I happen to own. Iโ€™ve handled the titanium SKJ045P before and itโ€™s very similar to the third generation SMY001P โ€“ but I have never seen the first generation SHF series model in real life.

To compound matters, Seiko does not give the dimensions or weight of its spare parts and they are identified only by their unique Part Number. Some parts happen to be interchangeable between two different generations of the same model, while others (like the bezel in this case), visually look the same until you try to fit them.

Hope you are able to source the correct bezel! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

Hi Quartzimodo,
I have a 5M23 โ€œTunaโ€ style project incoming and it will need extensive movement work. I am on the fence about replacing the movement and want your opinion; should I look for a 5M23 donor or upgrade to a 5m43? Any discernible difference between the two?
Thanks in advance!
Jay

Hi Jay.

Good question. I am not sure if the 5M43 movement will fit the inside of a 5M23 case as in some real life examples, the dial feet may be positioned differently from one caliber version to another. Assuming that the 5M43 fits nicely, you can use either the old style low capacity capacitor or the high capacity, lithium ion cell. While the 5M43 has been certified to recharge the lithium ion cell, the 5M23 probably had not. You could also look for the much improved 5M63 Kinetic movement if you wish โ€“ again, on the assumption that it will fit your watch case properly.

Why choose a donor 5M23 movement?
โ€“ To preserve the originality of your watch. If you intend to sell your project watch someday, some purists may not like the idea of a non-original caliber to this watch. It says 5M23 on the dial and caseback, but the oscillating rotor says โ€œ5M43โ€ on it. They canโ€™t tell if itโ€™s the factory fitted 5M23 in your watch, but theyโ€™ll know that youโ€™ve plonked a 5M43 movement in there. Itโ€™s like looking for a classic Jaguar XJ-S sports car in an auction, only to find a turbocharged Toyota Supra engine in it. If you donโ€™t mind a non-Jaguar engine in that XJ-S, wellโ€ฆbuy it. ๐Ÿ˜‰

Why choose the 5M43 movement upgrade?
โ€“ You have no plans of selling your project watch.
โ€“ The 5M43 is more suitable for the TC-920S lithium ion rechargeable cell for a much longer power reserve.
โ€“ It doesnโ€™t matter to you that the movement model doesnโ€™t match the caseback and dial movement codes. ๐Ÿ™‚
When in doubt, please consult your nearest Seiko service center if they can certify if the 5M43 and 5M23 are 100% interchangeable (no modifications necessary, if possible).

good luck! ๐Ÿ™‚
Quartzimodo

I bought my SEIKO 5M23-6B50 in 1995 in Germany, I am from Germany.
I am still wearing it, itโ€™s been going none stop for 24 Years.
Itโ€™s still in an excellent condition. Never had anything wrong with it.
I find it quite remarkable.

Kind regards
Klaus

Hi Klaus,

Thatโ€™s very interesting. The 5M2x Kinetic series used the older capacitor technology, which can last for a few decades provided that the capacitor itself doesnโ€™t leak. Since you have been wearing it on your wrist every day for the past 24 years, there is no chance of the capacitor self discharging to zero. You are one of the very lucky owners whose 5M23 Kinetic watch is still running to this day since 1995. ๐Ÿ™‚

At some point in time, you might want to have your watchโ€™s gasket checked for its water resistance capability and its moving parts lubricated.

best regards,
Quartzimodo.

Hello, i own an SKJ001 which has a newer lithium ion battery. Still runs perfectly. MOD question: is there a bezel/insert that will fit this watch? For example Iโ€™ve seen photos of SKJโ€™s with glass backs from a Seiko 5. Was wondering if any other available parts may fit the SKJ. Thanks

Hi John,

Seiko made much fewer SKJ-series Kinetic 200m sports watches compared to say, the iconic SKX007K (7S26-0020). The bezel for the SKJ/SMY Kinetics are custom made for this watch design and I doubt if they are interchangeable with those for the 7s26-0020 automatic divers.

As for the pimped up SKJ family watches with the Seiko 5 glass backs, I havenโ€™t seen any in pictorial form. Apparently after some experimenting someone figured out that a display back from a Seiko 5 watch happens to be of the same diameter as the SKJ001P. Note that your watchโ€™s original water resistance will be compromised as the basic Seiko 5 watch has a W.R rating of just 30 meters.

I donโ€™t remember having seen a Seiko or Orient watch with a rear display back that is ISO rated to 200m. Nearly all the examples with glass backs max out at 100m water resistance and these arenโ€™t even diverโ€™s watches.

The 5M43/5M63 Sports 200 Kinetics cater for a niche market, which is why they are very hard to find whether in NOS or used form. A very small market means third party custom parts sellers are not likely to make substitute parts for this watch.

Hope this helps,
Quartzimodo.

Hi Quartzimodo,
You are maybe confined as most people of the world. That gave me the time to surf and find your site. I have been very interested as I own a SEIKO Kinetic watch SPORTS 150 5M23-6B50 n* 492 297 bought in Yurakucho, Tokyo in the 90โ€™s. But Singapore is marked inside the back cover.I still have the SEIKO box and booklet, but nothing about SHF045P as I discovered about this watch reading your comments. My watch is still working, but I have to change capacitor, glass, gaskets of course, oil. The dial is perfect, but the bezel is very scratched. I like very much this watch and want to keep and restore it. As I read you itโ€™s a bit hard to find a new bezel. At least, after restoring Iโ€™ll have a fine old working kinetic watch.
You gave the P/N 86311645 for the Pepsi bezel, but do you know the P/N of the black bezel for the SHF045P?
Iโ€™m French and retired in the south of France. I have been travelling during my active life In Asia like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Japan etcโ€ฆInternet make me think about those faraway countries.
I hope youโ€™re going well.
Best regards,
Philippe

Bonjour Philippe,

Thank you for the very interesting email and yes, we are advised to stay at home and only go out only if it is absolutely necessary. At this time of writing, the only service centers have been allowed to operate are for transportation, i.e., motor cars and commercial vehicles. Repair centers for electronic/electrical items, mobile phones and watches are deemed non-essential services therefore they are to remain shut until further notice. Suffice to say, all watch stores are also closed therefore anyone whose quartz watch battery has run down will be out of luck. ๐Ÿ™‚

You have an SHF045P from September 1994 which is about right for a 5M23 based Sports 150 Kinetic. Iโ€™m not sure whether switching to the Maxell TC-920S rechargeable lithium ion cell is advisable or possible, as the โ€œfeetโ€ of the LiOn cell kit and the Panasonic capacitor kit are different. If itโ€™s possible to upgrade the old capacitor to the higher capacity TC-920S LiOn cell, I have no idea if the 5M23โ€™s output charging current is powerful enough to recharge a TC-920s rechargeable cell, compared to the upgraded 5M43 Kinetic module.

The P/N for the entire black bezel for your model is 86311643. Just like the other Pepsi and the gold accented bezels, your chances of procuring a replacement bezel from Seiko Japan are probably slim to none. Youโ€™re also unlikely to come across third party, aftermarket bezel inserts for any of the SHF series Kinetic watches as the aftermarket parts cottage industry prefers to make inserts for more popular models. By this I mean the 7s26-0020, 6309-70xx, 7002-700x and 6105-8xxx vintage divers.

As with many Seiko quartz and Kinetic watches manufactured from the middle 1990s onwards, it is usual for these timepieces to have been assembled by the Seiko Instruments Inc (SII) manufacturing facility in Singapore. This is why itโ€™s stamped โ€œSingaporeโ€ on the flip side of the watch caseback. The entire Kinetic movement on the other hand, was sourced from Seiko Japan.

When I joined the Seiko & Citizen Watch Forum back in 2003, I came across virtually zero threads on the SHF-series (5M23) Sports 150 Kinetics. I reckon that at the time, enthusiasts of this sports watch tended to own the 5M43 based SKJ series or the more modern, SMY series with the 5M63 Kinetic movement. I guess collectors preferred the 5M43/5M63 versions as they have a 200m water resistance rating, Sapphlex crystal plus the lumed triangle pip on the bezel insert.

I believe the SHF-series Kinetics use normal Hardlex glass (P/N: 290P06HN03) while the 5M63 SMY models are endowed with the Sapphlex version (P/N: 290PX7SN03).

Iโ€™ve been told that next to Seiko Japan, Hong Kongโ€™s Seiko distributor (Thong Sia HK) is the worldโ€™s second larges stockist of Seiko spare parts. Since the SHF045P is definitely NOT a Japanese domestic market model, Thong Sia HK might have one unsold bezel part waiting for a home. Try to contact Thong Sia via this electronic form.

Good luck! ๐Ÿ™‚

Salut,
Quartzimodo Admin.

Hi Q,I read your skj series gone but not forgotten blog with great interest.In it you state the rarity of the skj 137p,I have one dated 06/97 in remarkable conditition for its age!I wonder if you could give me a ball park value as I wish to sell it,but have never seen another one to base its price on! I also own a 04/96 skj048p not as good condition but still reasonable for its age.Thanks in advance,keep up the good work and stay safe.kind regards Roy.

Hi Roy,

Congrats on owning the SKJ137P Sports 200 Kinetic โ€œdiverโ€™s watchโ€. ๐Ÿ™‚

I saw an old classifieds ad for NOS (New Old Stock) for an SKJ137P recently, with and asking price of US$380. A NOS watch usually means one that is โ€œnever wornโ€ and mostly sits nicely in its original box. Since your watch is not exactly a NOS but has been used, you might want to target your asking price between US$230-$300.

Remember that watchโ€™s rarity on its own is not a guarantee of a premium resale price, if no one is remotely interested in it.

Good luck and stay safe! ๐Ÿ™‚

Q.

Hi Q,thank you for replying,you too stay safe.?

Thank you very much for the article โ€“ I am very glad to have come across it and learnt more about my watch ๐Ÿ™‚ I have owned and worn a SKJ0137P (emerald face) from new since the late 90โ€™s. I had the capacitor replaced about 9 years ago and the watch keeps on ticking. Power reserve is still about 1 week if I do not wear it and it runs down. Old faithful indeed ๐Ÿ™‚

Hi Andries,

Congratulations on having your old faithful keeping you company for the past two decades! Capacitors and rechargeable lithium ion cells do not have infinite lifespans and they do degrade over time. In the same way you wouldnโ€™t be expecting your laptopโ€™s battery from 9 years ago to still hold the same amount of charge when it was new.

When you decide to replace your watchโ€™s Seiko SII capacitor (or Maxell TC-920S lithium ion cell), be sure to check with the repairman if he is aware of how long that replacement part has been since itโ€™s manufactured. You donโ€™t want to end up paying for one thatโ€™s already been sitting idle for years and is possibly already going south. Itโ€™s the same thing with car, laptop, smartphone and camera batteries โ€“ you definitely want the freshest battery possible from the factory that made it. ๐Ÿ™‚

A one-week power reserve, if itโ€™s a rechargeable lithium ion cell is already a warning sign that its power cell unit has reached its end of life. From this point onwards, it may degrade further that your SKJ137P will only run for a day before it eventually stops working altogether. You might want to consider replacing the LiOn cell soon.

Force charging your watch, with the special Seiko YT-02A Kinetic Energy Supplier unit can only hasten the charging process of your watch, but will not revive a dying rechargeable cell. I know this from personal experience and frequent use of my Seiko YT-02A charger heats up the entire movement, possibly degrading the chemical composition of the rechargeable cell itself.

cheers,
Quartzimodo.

Great article, read it several times!

FYI, my SKJ048 is on Chrono24 if anyone is interested.

I have had a SKJ003 from new. 3 charge caps, one worn out strap which I replaced with leather. Faults? Itโ€™s not a Rolexโ€ฆ got a Rolex you want to swap for my old Seiko? Naw, Iโ€™ll keep the Seiko.

Simple visual design, no fuss maintenance, easy to view at a glance, time keeping is fantastic for new, let alone after 20 years. It just keeps working!

Not sure if youve noticed the Special edition Number 9 Thailand only 5m83 version of the SKJ001 called the SMY199. Been around for a while now and limted to 2999 units, these are available locally in Thailand and being made recently, are mostly in near new condition. Something to consider if looking for a mint example.

Hi John,

Thanks for the heads up! The SMY199P would probably be the last of the โ€œSports 200mโ€ Kinetics unless there is demand for such models. Except for the latest generation 5M83 caliber movement it should share many parts in common with the older SKJ001P/SMY001P watches. The Seiko โ€œNo 9โ€ would most likely to use the LumiBrite compound thatโ€™s applied to Seiko diverโ€™s watches โ€“ the same grade as the one first appearing on the SKX399K Black Monster. This watchโ€™s lume should outshine even the SMY001Pโ€™s lume.

At slightly over US$1,000 this overpriced watch is clearly targeted at hardcore collectors than at the average watch buyer. The SKJ001P/SMY001P may have had its share of fans but if they retailed for US$1K over 20 years ago, almost no one would have bought them. Seiko Thailand has been known for releasing countless โ€œlimited editionโ€ models since the early 2000s and these are largely seller driven watches. People snap them up not necessarily because they have the hots for the watches, but to make money out of them.

Hey, I only paid about US$185 for my SMY003P back in 2007. Except for two battery changes (I didnโ€™t wear it enough) my watch still looks like new. There are better watches out there for US$1.1k โ€“ both Seiko and non Seiko. ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo Admin.

Hello, I love your very informative page. I have a SKJ004P with a Jubilee bracelet purchased circa 1996 in Hong Kong that I am expecting back from repair at the Wahmah, NJ Seiko repair center in a day or two. I would like to reduce the wear on the bracelet by replacing it with a leather strap similar to the one shown on the SKJ014P on your web page. Any suggestions? Thanks

Hi Michael,

Sounds like youโ€™re in love with the original Jubilee bracelet that came with your SKJ004P Kinetic Sports 200m! ๐Ÿ™‚

If you love the look and feel of stainless steel on your skin, have a look at alternatives from Strapcode right here! They have custom rubber straps with buckles and end links that cover the gap between the watch head and the strap pins. This is important as ordinary leather, silicone or rubber bands usually terminate exactly at where the strap pins are โ€“ leaving an ugly gap.

If you wish to continue wearing stainless steel while giving your present Jubilee band a break that it deserves, why not substitute it for this one? It has the same dimensions as the original 22mm Jubilee on your watch. Not enough gold bling? Try this one instead! ๐Ÿ™‚

Good luck with your choice and do tell me which band youโ€™ve settled on! ๐Ÿ™‚

Quartzimodo Admin

Hi there,
Recently i was lucky enough to find a SMY005 in amazing used condition with no fading or scratches to the rotating bezel.

My question to you is, I donโ€™t know if i need to change the capacitor, what are the signs a capacitor is failing?

Also if i do need to change it, where would i go about find spares?

Thanks again for the awesome information!!

kind regards,
Kingdon

Hi there,
Recently i was lucky enough to find a SMY005 in amazing used condition with no fading or scratches to the rotating bezel.

My question to you is, I donโ€™t know if i need to change the capacitor, what are the signs a capacitor is failing?

Also if i do need to change it, where would i go about find spares?

Thanks again for the awesome information!!

kind regards,
Kingdon

Hi Kingdon,

Iโ€™ve been away from my blog for some time, please excuse my tardiness in replying. ๐Ÿ™

Firstly, a hearty congratulations on finding the elusive shiny blue SMY005! You will know when the rechargeable lithium ion cell (Maxell TC-920S) needs replacement when the power reserve system indicates โ€œ5 secondsโ€ even when the watch has been worn continuously for months. A full power reserve will show the second hand needle swinging to the 30-second arc.

Fortunately, replacement parts for the Seiko 5M series Kinetics are still widely available. You can send your watch to any authorized Seiko watch dealer or service center. Alternatively you can find the TC-920S lithium ion cell on eBay and have it replaced by a watch store that has experience with Seiko Kinetics.

Be sure not to get that beautiful bezel scratched though. In 2023, parts for these long discontinued model are rare as hensโ€™ teeth. Even if you could find a replacement NOS (new old stock) bezel for this watch, you have to purchase the entire bezel unit, even if what you wanted is just the bezel insert. Seiko has never sold bezel inserts separately therefore they have to be bought together with the whole rotating bezel.

Good luck and wear your SMY005 in good health! ๐Ÿ™‚

regards,
Quartzimodo.

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