The Seiko SPB151J and SPB153J are 2020 Prospex interpretations of the 6105 diver associated with Martin Sheen’s Captain Willard in Apocalypse Now. The SPB151J pairs a black dial and bezel with a steel bracelet; the SPB153J is the olive-green version on a silicone strap. They share the same core design and 6R35 automatic movement, but they are modern watches—not exact reproductions of the vintage 6105.
What connects these watches to Apocalypse Now?
The “Captain Willard” nickname comes from the Seiko 6105 worn by Martin Sheen’s character in Apocalypse Now. The SPB151J and SPB153J carry forward that watch’s distinctive asymmetrical diver-case design in a contemporary Prospex package. Hodinkee introduced the pair on April 14, 2020, describing them as a non-limited return of the 6105 design after the limited SLA033. Hodinkee’s 2020 introduction provides the launch context.
“Reissue” is useful shorthand for the design connection, but neither model is an exact vintage reproduction. These are later, modern interpretations with contemporary specifications and finishes.
SPB151J vs. SPB153J: what is different?
| Model | Dial and bezel | Supplied band | Best fit for |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPB151J | Black dial and bezel; the dial is described as matte black in contemporary coverage. | Stainless-steel bracelet | Those who want the black-on-steel look closest to the original’s dark aesthetic. |
| SPB153J | Olive-green dial and bezel; Time+Tide describes the dial as radially brushed. | Silicone strap | Those who prefer a green colorway and silicone rather than a bracelet. |
The color and supplied band are the clearest differences. Contemporary descriptions of the pair are available from Time+Tide and Monochrome Watches. The shared 6105-inspired case shape is the point of both watches; choose between them primarily by whether black with steel or olive green with silicone better suits your preferred style.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- ELEGANT DESIGN: Round stainless steel case with blue rotating bezel, white dial and steel bracelet for a professional and refined look
- GMT function: Automatic movement with GMT function for monitoring two time zones, ideal for international travelers
- TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: Diver watch with water resistance up to 300 m, sapphire crystal and date indicator
- SPECIAL EDITION: Prospex Collection 60th Anniversary commemorative model, representing Seiko excellence in the sports watch industry
- BRACELET: Solid stainless steel bracelet with safety clasp, perfect for everyday wear and sports activities
Movement and specifications
Launch coverage identifies the SPB151J and SPB153J as using Seiko’s 6R35 automatic caliber, with an approximately 70-hour power reserve. Seiko’s UK listing for the SPB153J1 gives the following specifications; they are manufacturer-listed figures for that regional reference, not independent measurements.
| Specification | Seiko UK listing for SPB153J1 |
|---|---|
| Movement | Caliber 6R35; automatic with manual winding; 24 jewels |
| Accuracy | +25 to -15 seconds per day |
| Power reserve | Approximately 70 hours |
| Case | Stainless steel |
| Diameter | 42.7 mm |
| Thickness | 13.2 mm |
| Lug-to-lug | 46.6 mm |
| Crystal | Curved sapphire crystal with inner-surface anti-reflective coating |
| Lug distance | 20 mm |
| Water resistance | 200 m / 660 ft diver’s water resistance |
| Other listed features | Unidirectional rotating bezel, screw-down crown, screw case back, and three-fold clasp with secure lock |
Those dimensions can help screen for fit before trying a watch on: the 46.6 mm lug-to-lug measurement is especially relevant for how far the case extends across the wrist. The official figures above apply to the SPB153J1 listing in the UK; regional references and supplied-band details should be checked against the specific listing when buying. Seiko’s UK SPB153J1 product page is the source for the listed specifications.
Rank #2
- 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
Were the SPB151J and SPB153J limited editions?
Hodinkee’s April 2020 introduction described the SPB151/SPB153 as a non-limited release. That is distinct from the limited SLA033 that preceded them in Seiko’s modern 6105-inspired line. This describes the launch positioning, not present-day stock: current availability was not established in the cited material.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What did they cost at launch?
Prices varied by market and report, so the 2020 figures below are historical launch prices—not current prices or a single universal MSRP.
Rank #3
- KHAKI GREEN DIAL: this rugged sports watch features a khaki green dial patterned to mirror the shape of the bezel’s edge, with Lumibrite dial indicator hands and markers for low light and a magnified day/date calendar
- BLACK BEZEL: this versatile men’s watch features a black ceramic unidirectional bezel with distinctive scalloped edging, for elapsed timing
- AUTOMATIC & MANUAL: SRPE05 automatic watches for men power up with your natural movements, and feature the ability to wind manually, with 41 hours of reserve power
- WATER-RESISTANT: these rugged stainless steel dive watches for men feature a khaki green silicon strap, and are both stylish and robust, following ISO standards for scuba, and are water-resistant to 200 meters
- 4R36 CALIBER: equipped with the reliable 4R36 caliber, these precise men’s wrist watches ensure the most accurate timekeeping
| Model | Monochrome Watches, June 2020 | Time+Tide, Australian launch pricing |
|---|---|---|
| SPB151 | USD 1,300 / EUR 1,350 | AUD 1,995 |
| SPB153 | USD 1,100 / EUR 1,150 | AUD 1,695 |
Monochrome’s June 2020 report gave the US and euro figures and expected availability later that June; Time+Tide’s coverage reported Australian launch prices. Neither set of figures should be used as a current quote.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
Rank #4
- 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
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.
