Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe Seiko SKX173 is a North American-market relative of the SKX007, not a wholly different watch. The most noticeable differences are its rectangular hour markers and the position of the luminous dot on the seconds hand. Both models are associated with Seiko’s 7S26 automatic movement; the SKX173 is now described as discontinued, so anyone considering one should assess the individual watch rather than assume current availability or value.
What is the difference between the SKX007 and the SKX173?
The SKX173 is identified as a North American-market model closely related to the SKX007. Side by side, the dial and seconds hand provide the clearest visual clues:
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
SEIKO SRPF03 Automatic Dive Watch for Men - Prospex Special Edition | $440.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Casio Men's MDV106-1AV 200M Black Dive Watch (MDV106-1A) | $68.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
SEIKO SRPL51 Automatic Diver Watch Men's Prospex - Blue | $476.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| Detail | SKX173 | SKX007 |
|---|---|---|
| Hour markers | Rectangular, hard-edged markers; the 12 o’clock marker is narrow and divided. | Round markers, according to I Know Watches. |
| Seconds-hand lume | The luminous dot sits close to the tip. | The luminous dot is toward the opposite end of the hand. |
| Dial text | Examples are noted with “Malaysia” dial text and a 7S26 movement marking. | Not stated in the cited comparison. |
These are useful identification details, but they do not by themselves establish that a particular used watch is genuine or unmodified. Dial and hand parts can be changed, so check the whole watch and its condition rather than relying on one feature. The comparison comes from I Know Watches’ SKX173 comparison.
SKX173 movement and case specifications
The Seiko Guy reference guide lists the following specifications for the SKX173. Treat these as reference-guide model data, not as current specifications from a Seiko product page.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute#1 Best Overall
- WATER-RESISTANT: these water-resistant men's dive watches are ISO scuba-approved to depths of 200 meters
- AUTOMATIC: these self-winding, automatic men's watches are powered by your movement, with a power reserve of 41 hours
- STAINLESS STEEL: features a durable 43.8mm stainless steel watch case and bracelet.
- LUMIBRITE DISPLAY: this men's automatic watch features a highly-legible display with LumiBrite hands and markers
- 4R35 CALIBER: equipped with the reliable caliber 4R35 automatic movement, this accurate men's watch keeps precise time
| Specification | SKX173 listing |
|---|---|
| Case codes | 7S26-0029 and 7S26-0028 |
| Movement | 7S26 automatic caliber |
| Year listed | 1996 |
| Case | Stainless steel, 43 mm |
| Crystal | Hardlex |
| Crown | Screw-down |
| Jewels | 21 |
| Power reserve | 41 hours |
| Frequency | 21,600 vibrations per hour |
These figures are listed by The Seiko Guy’s SKX173 reference guide. Case-back markings can help identify the caliber and case code, but should be read alongside the dial and other details.
How to check the 7S26 instructions
Seiko’s customer-service site provides an English instruction manual titled “Instruction of 7S26 (Automatic Divers) : English.” Seiko advises owners to check the case back for the caliber code, which helps confirm which instructions apply.
Seiko Watch Corporation says: “Seiko will gradually discontinue attaching paper instruction manuals to its products as part of a paperless operation starting February 2024.” This statement concerns the company’s manuals generally, not the SKX173’s production history. Find the manual and guidance on Seiko’s instruction page.
Rank #2
- Stainless Steel case with Black Resin Band
- Black Dial with date window at 3 O'clock
- Luminous markers and hour hands; sweep second hand
- Anti-reverse bezel
- Water-resistant to 200 M (660 feet)
Buying a discontinued SKX173
I Know Watches describes the SKX173 as discontinued and says it has historically been easier to encounter on eBay than in watch shops. That is not a live inventory check, and it does not establish a current price or confirm any individual listing. Treat examples as pre-owned or collectible watches and evaluate the specific piece.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- Compare the dial markers and seconds-hand lume position with documented SKX173 examples.
- Check the case-back codes and movement marking; Seiko’s support page says the caliber code is on the case back.
- Ask whether the dial, hands, movement, or other parts have been replaced, and request clear photos of the watch and its markings.
- Assess condition and service history independently. The reference specifications do not establish the present condition of a particular watch.
Modern alternatives: appearance or dive specification?
There is no basis here to call either modern option an official SKX173 successor. They offer different reasons to consider them, depending on whether the priority is styling or dive capability.
Seiko 5 Sports SKX line: familiar look
Spring & Dial describes the Seiko 5 Sports SKX line as retaining the SKX007’s look while offering 100 m water resistance and a push-pull crown. That makes it a look-oriented alternative, not a like-for-like replacement for a screw-down-crown dive watch.
Rank #3
- STAINLESS STEEL CASE built to endure with style, making this watch your perfect daily companion
- AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT for seamless precision in every tick of this watch
- SCRATCH-RESISTANT CRYSTAL to maintain a pristine look even with daily wear and tear on your watch
- LUMINESCENT HANDS for effortless readability in low-light conditions, ensuring you never miss a moment with this watch
- WATER RESISTANT DESIGN ensuring your watch is ready for any adventure, rain or shine
Turtle: higher stated dive rating
For a 200 m ISO-rated diving alternative, Spring & Dial points to the Turtle. A resemblance or water-resistance figure alone does not establish ISO diver certification; check the exact model’s specifications and certification before relying on it for diving. Spring & Dial also reports that the SKX007 was discontinued in 2019.
See Spring & Dial’s discussion of the SKX007 and alternatives for that comparison.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
