Hey guys! Are you in the market for a high-quality dive watch with a rich heritage? Then, let's dive deep into the Seiko SLA051 Prospex Uemura/Willard, a timepiece that has captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide. This isn't just any watch; it’s a modern re-interpretation of a classic Seiko diver, famously worn by Japanese adventurer Naomi Uemura. Known for its robust design, exceptional performance, and vintage charm, the SLA051, affectionately nicknamed the "Willard" by fans due to its appearance in the movie Apocalypse Now, is a standout piece in Seiko's Prospex line. In this article, we’ll explore every facet of this iconic watch, from its design and features to its movement and overall value proposition. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your horological journey, understanding the Seiko SLA051 will give you a deeper appreciation for the art of watchmaking and the legacy of Seiko divers. So, stick around as we uncover what makes this watch a true gem in the world of horology.
Design and Features
The Seiko SLA051 Prospex Uemura/Willard is a masterclass in blending vintage aesthetics with modern watchmaking technology. The first thing you'll notice about this watch is its distinctive case shape. The asymmetrical design, with its crown positioned at 4 o'clock, not only adds to the watch's unique look but also enhances wearer comfort. This design, originally conceived to prevent the crown from digging into the wrist during activity, is a hallmark of the Willard and a key element of its enduring appeal. The case is made from Seiko's Ever-Brilliant Steel, a special alloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and brilliant luster. This ensures that your watch will not only look stunning but also stand the test of time, even in harsh conditions. The case measures approximately 42.7mm in diameter, striking a perfect balance between wrist presence and wearability. It’s substantial enough to feel like a proper tool watch, yet not so large as to be cumbersome.
Moving on to the dial, the SLA051 features a deep blue hue that evokes the mysteries of the ocean depths. The color is not just aesthetically pleasing; it also enhances legibility in various lighting conditions. The applied hour markers and hands are generously coated with LumiBrite, Seiko’s proprietary luminous material, ensuring excellent visibility in the dark. This is a crucial feature for a dive watch, where readability underwater is paramount. The sapphire crystal, with its anti-reflective coating, further enhances visibility and provides superior scratch resistance compared to mineral crystal. This is a practical upgrade that ensures the dial remains clear and legible even after years of wear. The unidirectional rotating bezel is another essential feature for a dive watch, allowing the wearer to track elapsed time underwater. The bezel on the SLA051 is made from stainless steel with a blue aluminum insert, complementing the dial color and adding to the watch's overall cohesive design. The bezel action is smooth and precise, with a satisfying click for each increment, instilling confidence in its functionality. The watch is water-resistant to 200 meters (20 bar), making it suitable for recreational diving and other water activities. This level of water resistance is a testament to Seiko’s commitment to producing robust and reliable dive watches.
The Movement
At the heart of the Seiko SLA051 Prospex Uemura/Willard beats the Seiko 8L35 automatic movement. This movement is a workhorse, known for its reliability and accuracy. It is not just any movement; it is a movement that is specially designed and regulated for Seiko’s professional dive watches. The 8L35 is based on the Grand Seiko 9S55 movement, which speaks volumes about its pedigree and quality. While it may not have the same level of finishing as a Grand Seiko movement, the 8L35 is still meticulously assembled and adjusted by hand at Seiko's Shizukuishi Watch Studio in Japan. This level of craftsmanship ensures that the movement performs to the highest standards. The movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), which translates to a smooth sweep of the seconds hand and improved accuracy. It features 26 jewels, which reduce friction and wear, contributing to the movement's longevity. The power reserve is approximately 50 hours, meaning that the watch will keep running for two days even if you take it off your wrist. This is a practical feature for those who rotate between multiple watches.
The accuracy of the 8L35 movement is another key selling point. Seiko rates the movement to run within -10 to +15 seconds per day, but many owners report that their watches perform well within these specifications, often achieving accuracy closer to chronometer standards. This level of accuracy is a testament to Seiko’s engineering prowess and attention to detail. The movement also features a hacking function, which stops the seconds hand when the crown is pulled out. This allows for precise time setting, ensuring that your watch is always synchronized with the correct time. The 8L35 is a non-decorated movement, meaning that it lacks the elaborate finishing seen on some high-end watches. However, this is in line with the utilitarian nature of the Willard. The focus is on performance and reliability, rather than aesthetics. The movement is hidden behind a solid case back, further emphasizing the watch's tool-watch credentials. In summary, the Seiko 8L35 movement is a robust and reliable powerhouse that perfectly complements the SLA051's rugged design and dive-watch pedigree.
Wearing the Seiko SLA051
Wearing the Seiko SLA051 Prospex Uemura/Willard is an experience in itself. The watch has a presence on the wrist that is both substantial and comfortable. Its dimensions – 42.7mm case diameter, 13.2mm thickness, and 46.6mm lug-to-lug – strike a sweet spot for many wrist sizes. It’s large enough to feel like a proper dive watch, yet not so large as to be unwieldy. The asymmetrical case design, with the crown at 4 o'clock, contributes to the watch's comfort. This placement prevents the crown from digging into the wrist, making it ideal for all-day wear. The watch comes with a stainless steel bracelet that is both durable and stylish. The bracelet features a three-fold clasp with a secure lock and a diver extension, allowing you to adjust the fit over a wetsuit. The links are solid, adding to the bracelet's robust feel, and the finishing is excellent, with brushed surfaces that complement the case. The weight of the watch is another factor that contributes to the wearing experience. At around 130 grams on the bracelet, it has a reassuring heft that speaks to its quality and construction. However, it's not so heavy as to be tiring, even after wearing it for extended periods. The blue dial is a joy to behold in various lighting conditions. It transitions from a deep, inky blue in low light to a vibrant, almost iridescent blue in direct sunlight. The LumiBrite on the hands and markers glows brightly in the dark, ensuring excellent legibility at night or underwater. The sapphire crystal, with its anti-reflective coating, provides a clear view of the dial from almost any angle. This is a practical feature that enhances the watch's usability in everyday situations. The watch feels equally at home on a variety of straps, including NATO straps, rubber straps, and leather straps. This versatility allows you to customize the look of your watch to suit your personal style and the occasion. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or heading out for a casual weekend adventure, the SLA051 can adapt to your needs. Overall, wearing the Seiko SLA051 is a rewarding experience. It's a watch that feels well-built, looks stunning, and performs flawlessly. It's a true testament to Seiko's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Market Value and Collectibility
The Seiko SLA051 Prospex Uemura/Willard holds a significant place in the watch market, valued for its blend of heritage, quality, and aesthetics. When it was first released, the SLA051 had a retail price of around $3,000. However, like many Seiko watches, its market value can fluctuate depending on various factors, including availability, condition, and demand. Today, you can often find pre-owned SLA051s listed for sale at prices ranging from $1,800 to $2,500, depending on their condition and whether they come with their original box and papers. The specific listing you mentioned, offering the watch for $1,300, represents a compelling value proposition, assuming the watch is in good condition. Such a price point is below the typical market rate, making it an attractive opportunity for potential buyers looking to add this iconic timepiece to their collection. The collectibility of the SLA051 is another factor to consider. As a re-interpretation of a classic Seiko dive watch with a rich history, the SLA051 appeals to collectors who appreciate vintage-inspired designs and Seiko's legacy of producing high-quality dive watches. Its association with Naomi Uemura and the
