The Seiko SKX is a legend. For decades, it was the undisputed king of affordable, no-nonsense dive watches, beloved for its rugged reliability and iconic tool-watch aesthetic. Its discontinuation left a void in the hearts of watch enthusiasts everywhere. But the spirit of the SKX is very much alive. The quest for a worthy successor has spurred a wave of fantastic alternatives that capture that same essence of adventure-ready capability and value.
Today’s market is filled with options that honor the SKX’s legacy, often offering even more modern features and refined designs. Whether you seek a direct replacement from Seiko’s own lineup, incredible value from other Japanese brands, or a step up into Swiss engineering, there is a perfect watch waiting for you. This roundup is your guide to finding the ideal SKX alternative to strap on your wrist for your next adventure.
Top Seiko SKX Replacement Watches
- Seiko Prospex Samurai Stainless Steel Automatic Dive Watch
- Orient Men’s Automatic Sport Watch with Stainless Steel Strap
- Orient Kamasu/Mako III Men’s Automatic Diver’s Watch
- Certina DS Action Diver Black Dial Automatic Men’s Watch
- Orient Sports Mako 2 & Ray 2 Automatic Waterproof Watch
- Invicta Men’s Pro Diver Coin-Edge Automatic Watch
- SEIKO SRPE93 Automatic Dive Watch for Men – Prospex
- ORIENT Men’s Kamasu Stainless Steel Japanese-Automatic
- Citizen Men’s Promaster Dive Automatic Silver Stainless Steel
- Seiko 5 Sports SRPD51K1 Automatic Dive Watch
Seiko Prospex Samurai Stainless Steel Automatic Dive Watch
For those who want to stay within the Seiko family but desire a more aggressive and modern design, the Prospex Samurai is a fantastic choice. Its name comes from the sharp, angular case design that resembles a samurai sword, giving it a distinct and bold personality. This watch carries the Prospex designation, meaning it meets Seiko’s higher standards for professional sports timepieces.
It features a robust stainless steel case rated for 200 meters of water resistance, a reliable Seiko automatic movement, and a hardlex crystal. The strong lume and unidirectional bezel make it a highly capable tool watch for both underwater and everyday use.
Orient Men’s Automatic Sport Watch with Stainless Steel Strap
Orient, as part of the Seiko Epson group, offers incredible value and quality, making it a top contender for an SKX replacement. This model features a classic and versatile dive watch design with a 41.5mm case that wears comfortably on the wrist. It is powered by the Orient Cal. F6922 automatic movement, which includes handy features like hand-winding and hacking seconds.
With 200 meters of water resistance, it is suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports. The stainless steel bracelet and clean dial design make it a watch that can easily transition from a weekend adventure to a professional setting.
Orient Kamasu/Mako III Men’s Automatic Diver’s Watch
The Orient Kamasu, often called the Mako III, is widely regarded as one of the best-value dive watches on the market. It builds upon the success of its predecessors with a significant upgrade: a sapphire crystal. This makes the watch far more resistant to scratches than models with mineral glass, a feature rarely found at this price point.
Its sporty aesthetic is complemented by a reliable Japanese automatic movement and solid 200-meter water resistance. The Kamasu comes in a variety of attractive dial colors, including this striking pine green, offering both performance and style.
Certina DS Action Diver Black Dial Automatic Men’s Watch
If you’re looking to step up into Swiss-made territory, the Certina DS Action Diver is an excellent option. Certina is a brand with a strong heritage in dive watches and is part of the Swatch Group alongside Omega and Longines. The “DS” (Double Security) concept provides enhanced shock resistance and water resistance, making it an incredibly robust timepiece.
This model features a Powermatic 80 movement, which offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve, meaning it will keep running through an entire weekend off the wrist. Its build quality, finishing, and classic design offer a significant upgrade for those wanting a premium alternative.
Orient Sports Mako 2 & Ray 2 Automatic Waterproof Watch
The Orient Mako II and Ray II are direct spiritual successors to the SKX, offering a similar size and tool-watch ethos. Renowned for their excellence and reliability, these watches are a cornerstone of the affordable automatic watch world. They combine high-precision Japanese automatic movements with a modern, functional design that is both robust and proportionate.
With 200 meters of water resistance, a screw-down crown, and a secure stainless steel bracelet, this watch is built for adventure. It perfectly represents the tradition and innovation that Orient is known for.
Invicta Men’s Pro Diver Coin-Edge Automatic Watch
The Invicta Pro Diver is a legendary budget-friendly option that has introduced many to the world of automatic watches. Its 40mm case diameter is very close to the classic SKX dimensions, making it a comfortable wear for most wrists. A key feature is its use of the reliable and widely respected Seiko NH35A automatic movement, which ensures accurate timekeeping and easy servicing.
The design includes a coin-edge bezel, a black dial with luminous markers, and a solid stainless steel case with an exhibition case back. It delivers exceptional value for its price, providing core dive watch features without a significant investment.
SEIKO SRPE93 Automatic Dive Watch for Men – Prospex
This model from the Seiko Prospex “King Turtle” collection is a modern interpretation of Seiko’s classic dive watches. It features a distinctive, cushion-shaped case that is very comfortable to wear despite its larger presence. As part of the Prospex line, it is ISO certified for scuba diving to 200 meters, meeting professional standards.
It is powered by a Seiko automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve and is paired with a comfortable silicone strap. The watch also boasts Seiko’s excellent LumiBrite on the hands and markers for superior low-light visibility.
ORIENT Men’s Kamasu Stainless Steel Japanese-Automatic
This version of the Orient Kamasu highlights its key technical advantages. The standout feature is the sapphire crystal, which offers superior scratch resistance compared to mineral glass, ensuring the watch face stays looking new for years. It also features a precise 120-click unidirectional bezel for tracking elapsed time underwater.
Powered by a dependable Japanese automatic movement, this watch is all about delivering premium features at an accessible price point. Its combination of a sapphire crystal, solid movement, and 200m water resistance is hard to beat.
Citizen Men’s Promaster Dive Automatic Silver Stainless Steel
Citizen’s Promaster line is their dedicated professional series, and this automatic diver is a formidable tool watch. It carries ISO certification for diving, guaranteeing its performance and reliability under water. The watch features a classic and robust design with a silver-tone stainless steel case and a beautiful gradient blue dial that evokes the deep ocean.
With luminous hands and markers, a day/date complication, and a solid automatic movement, it is both highly functional and visually striking. It stands as a testament to Citizen’s manufacturing prowess and heritage in horology.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPD51K1 Automatic Dive Watch
The Seiko 5 Sports line is the direct, modern successor to the classic SKX in Seiko’s catalog. It carries the same recognizable case shape and dimensions, making it feel instantly familiar. While its water resistance is rated at 100 meters instead of 200, it is more than sufficient for swimming and snorkeling, making it a perfect everyday sports watch.
It retains the durable build, reliable automatic movement with day/date display, and unidirectional bezel that made the SKX famous. With an updated movement that includes hacking and hand-winding, it offers improved functionality for daily wear.
What to Look For in a Seiko SKX Alternative
So, you’re on the hunt for a watch to fill the void left by the discontinued Seiko SKX. I get it. That watch was a legend for a reason: it was tough, affordable, and had a personality all its own. Finding a direct replacement isn’t easy, but there are now some fantastic alternatives that capture that same spirit. Before we get to the list, let’s talk about what made the SKX special and what you should consider when choosing its successor.
First, think about the movement. The SKX used a robust but dated 7S26 automatic movement. It was a workhorse, but it couldn’t be hand-wound or hacked (meaning you couldn’t stop the second hand to set the time perfectly). Many modern alternatives offer upgraded movements with these features, which is a huge quality-of-life improvement. Look for calibers like the Seiko NH35, Miyota 9000 series, or various Sellita and ETA movements. They offer greater convenience while maintaining great reliability.
Next, consider build quality and specs. The SKX was ISO 6425 certified for diving, meaning it was a proper tool watch. While not every alternative has this official certification, many meet or exceed the same specs, like 200 meters of water resistance, a unidirectional bezel, and a solid screw-down crown. Also, look at the case finishing. The SKX had a certain utilitarian charm, but many of its successors offer better brushing, polishing, or more interesting case designs.
Finally, don’t forget the intangibles: value and character. The SKX was a gateway into the world of mechanical watches for many of us. The best alternatives should feel like they offer a lot for your money and have their own unique identity. They shouldn’t just be a copy; they should be a worthy successor that stands on its own. Whether it’s a modern Seiko, a microbrand offering, or a model from another established brand, the right watch for you will balance these factors of movement, build, and soul.
FAQ
Why was the Seiko SKX discontinued?
Seiko stopped production of the SKX series around 2019. The main reason is believed to be a combination of evolving manufacturing standards and a strategic shift within Seiko. The movements and designs were updated across their entire lineup. While the SKX was incredibly popular with enthusiasts, it used an older movement and was eventually replaced by modern collections like the Seiko 5 Sports line, which offer updated features like hand-winding and hacking seconds in a similar style.
What is the closest direct replacement for the Seiko SKX?
If you want the closest thing to a new, direct-from-the-factory SKX, the Seiko 5 Sports SRPD series is your best bet. It looks almost identical and comes in a huge variety of colors and styles. However, it’s important to know the key difference: its water resistance is rated at 100 meters instead of 200, and it lacks ISO dive watch certification. For most people, this is still plenty for swimming and daily wear, but it’s not a true professional dive watch like the original SKX was.
Are there any true ISO-certified dive watches at the SKX’s old price point?
Finding a brand-new, ISO-certified automatic dive watch at the SKX’s original price is very challenging. However, some models come very close. The Citizen Promaster NY008x series is a strong contender, often found at a reasonable price and built as a proper tool watch. Some microbrands also offer watches that meet the ISO standard, but you’ll need to check their specifications carefully, as it’s not a given. The market for true tool watches at that entry-level has definitely shifted.
Should I just buy a used Seiko SKX instead?
This is a great question and a very common path for many. The market for used SKX watches is still very active. The upside is you get the genuine article with all its original charm and specs. The downside is that prices have increased since its discontinuation, and you need to be cautious about the watch’s condition, potential mods, and service history. If having the real deal is important to you, a used SKX is a solid option, but be prepared to do your homework.
What features should I prioritize in a modern alternative?
I would prioritize a modern movement and solid build quality. Look for a movement like the Seiko NH35 or a Miyota 9000 series that allows for hand-winding and hacking. This is a practical upgrade you will appreciate every day. For build, a solid stainless steel case with at least 200 meters of water resistance, a reliable bezel action, and a comfortable bracelet or strap are key. These elements ensure you’re getting a watch that is both a pleasure to use and built to last, making it a worthy addition to your collection as you consider the best Seiko SKX alternatives and replacements for this popular dive watch.