Among Seiko’s diver watches, the SKX007 and the SKX009 are probably the most popular in 2023.
Their design and functions are exactly what every professional diver needs.
Despite having loads of features, these two Seiko watches have amazingly affordable prices which make them crowd favorites.
Because of their many similarities, they’re often compared to one another.
What makes the Seiko SKX009 different from the Seiko SKX007?
Which of them is better in terms of functionality, durability, and reliability?
Here’s a short guide that will help you determine which is more suitable to your preference.
The Seiko SKX007 Watch
The Seiko SKX007 is built to fulfill a diver’s needs for a watch that can last underwater while maintaining reliability and functionality.
The large typeface, highly visible markers, easy-to-grip bezel, luminescent hands, and simplistic design – the SKX007’s no-nonsense style makes it a practical choice for professional users is the brother watch to the SKX007J.
The Seiko SKX007 has a glaring similarity to the Rolex Submariner.
If not for the lack of the cyclops window, you’ll easily mistake this model for a Rolex original.
Pros:
- Affordable diver watch
- Legible watch face
- Strong lume brightness
- High water resistance rating
- A sporty and versatile look
Cons:
- No seconds hacking or manual winding
- Awkward crown position
- A bit thick and heavy
The Seiko SKX009 Watch
The Seiko SKX009 has almost everything the SKX007 has.
If not for the bezel and the dial color, you’ll mistake the Seiko SKX009 for an SKX007.
The slight difference in color combination is what makes the SKX009 a more coveted watch compared to the SKX007.
Unlike the plain black color of the SKX007’s dial and bezel, the
SKX009 model is available in a blue-red ‘Pepsi’ color combination which is popularly known as the Pepsi bezel which is a cheaper version of the Rolex Pepsi design for a mere fraction of the price tag.
The Pepsi bezel was popularized by Rolex through one of their GMT-Master II variants that have become particularly scarce to find with Authorised dealers.
Pros:
- The Pepsi bezel is a sure eye-catcher
- Inexpensive diver watch
- Legible watch face
- Strong lume brightness
- High water resistance rating
Cons:
- No seconds hacking or manual winding
- Awkward crown position
- A bit thick and heavy
Comparing the Seiko SKX009 vs SKX007 Dive watches
Here’s a comparison between the two famous Seiko diver models and how they compare to both competing watches.
So which model to you love?
Below we list the few distinctions between each other.
Case
The SKX007 and the SKX009 both have brushed, stainless steel cases measuring 42mm wide.
They also have the same thickness of 13mm, which is a frame that befits its purpose and features.
The dial is covered in a scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal.
This is sturdier than other dial crystals in the sense that it won’t break or shatter when you accidentally drop the watch.
Crown
The crown is located around the 4 o’clock position, which many may find unusual.
This is a signature element of the SKX models that sets them apart from other watches with a similar look.
Bezel
Both the SKX007 and the SKX009 have a 120-click, unidirectional rotating bezel made of stainless steel.
The bezel has large serrated cuts to make it easier for you to grip, even with gloves on.
You’ll find a luminous triangular pip on the 12 o’clock position on both watches.
There are also Arabic numeral and index minute markers in 10-minute increments.
The most notable difference between the SKX007 and the SKX009 is the latter’s Pepsi bezel.
The SKX007 has a plain black bezel similar to that of the Submariner, while the SKX009 has a red-blue color combination like the one found on the Rolex GMT-Master Pepsi variant.
Dial
The SKX007 has a black dial with white hour and minute markers.
On the other hand, the SKX009 has a blue dial that complements the color of the bezel.
Both Seiko diver watches have a combination of circular, triangular, and elliptical hour markers, all covered with luminescent material to ensure visibility even underwater.
The rectangular hands of both models have a triangular shape at the pointers for more precise time-telling.
The minute, hour, and even second hands are all filled with luminescent material.
On the 3 o’clock position, you’ll find the day-date window in white background and black text, making it instantly visible at first glance.
Movement
The SKX007 and the SKX009 run on a 21-jewel, Seiko 7s26 automatic movement with a day-date complication.
This is a basic automatic movement produced by Seiko, so don’t expect the availability of advanced features like seconds hacking on the watch.
Both Seiko models feature a 40-hour power reserve.
This means the watch can last for almost two days, eliminating the need for a watch winder.
Strap
Both the SKX007 and the SKX009 are equipped with stainless steel straps.
The deployment clasps have safety locks to ensure the watches stay in place even when you’re moving underwater.
Water Resistance
These two models won’t be called diver watches if they don’t have high water resistance ratings.
Both the SKX007 and the SKX009 are water-resistant up to 200 meters.
Price
The SKX007 is priced at $360, while the SKX009 can be purchased for $385.
Like the other features of the timepieces, the price of the two Seiko diver watches doesn’t differ that much.
My Final Thoughts On Seiko Watches
The SKX007 and the SKX009 belong to Seiko’s affordable diver watch collection.
For less than $500, you’ll get sporty accessories that look like Rolex creations.
This doesn’t mean they’re simply cheap copies not worth trying.
These Seiko watches are very reliable, durable, trendy, and functional – features that are hard to find, especially on the lower price range.
If you want a more subtle but sporty accessory, the SKX007 is a suitable choice.
But if you’re looking for a trendy timepiece to wear on any occasion, the SKX009 Is your best option.
