When Seiko released the updated 5 Sports line, many considered it an unworthy replacement for the iconic SKX007 and SKX009 divers. While the Seiko 5 Sports line lacks the features and water resistance of a dive watch, Seiko has used the line to express more creativity. One example is the Sonar that I reviewed. Another is the Seiko 5 SRPE83 Brian May Limited Edition, which I recently acquired from Random Rob.
The Brian May Seiko is designed in collaboration with the famed Queen Guitarist with styling cues inspired by his Red Special guitar. Despite being a large quantity LE of 9000 units, prices have held strong on the secondary market. This is likely because the watch appeals to both watch collectors and rock music fans.
Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83 First Impressions
The watch arrived in an exclusive box modeled after a guitar case and came with a commemorative coin, as you would receive if you purchased a Red Special guitar. The dial is a lot more attractive in person than expected, due to the deep red color.
Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83 Details
On the dial is where Seiko applies the Red Special inspiration to the Brian May edition watch. A deep red, vertically brushed finish evokes the mahogany wood grain visible on the actual guitar. The red then fades to black towards the bottom of the dial, giving a partial fumé effect.
The left side also features a curved black section like the real thing, with the white hour markers taking the place of the guitar's top hat adjustment knobs.
A dark red chapter ring with white markings surrounds the dial. The aluminum bezel insert is simple, with black anodization over silver markings.
It has the typical imprecise bezel feel of an entry-level Seiko, but this does allow some play to line up the 12-hour marker.
The case finishing is attractive, but it was built at a cost. The top surface of the lugs is brushed, with polished curved sides to the case. The crown is also unsigned and does not screw down.
The hands are standard 5 Sports items, finished in silver. The watch can display the date, as well of the day of the week in English or Spanish.
Wearing the Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83
As with most Seikos, compact lugs and a well-thought-out case shape make the 5KX wear much better than its 42.5mm width might indicate. The wide bezel also visually shrinks the watch, as the dial is a bit smaller. The guitar motif and additional text on the dial don't detract from legibility, as the hands and hour markers remain white-filled.
Night-time legibility is also quite good, thanks to Seiko’s green Lumibrite. Prospex models tend to have a thicker (and thus brighter) application, but this lume is still quite good.
Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83 Strap and Replacement Straps
Seiko offers a variety of straps for its "5KX" watches. The Brian May edition comes with a basic black nylon pass-through strap. It's comfortable and matches the casual, rock star nature of the watch.
The 22mm lug width allows many StrapHabit straps to fit it. The red and gray Deployant Sailcloth complements the dial, so I've been wearing it on that.
Here is a list of some more straps that would look great with this watch. At the end of the article, you'll also find photos of some of my favorite combinations. You can also view our Guide to Choosing a Watch Strap.
-Deployant Rubber
-Ridge Rubber
-Tropical Rubber
-Premium Sailcloth
-Smooth Rubber
-Rubber and Sailcloth Hybrid Straps
-Vented Rubber
-Slim Ridge Rubber
-Waffle Rubber
-Elastic
Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83 Movement
Seiko's 4R36 movement powers SPRE83 and many other Seiko 5 and Prospex models. It features automatic winding, as well as hand winding and hacking (stop seconds) function.
One of the requirements of being a Seiko 5 is a caseback that displays the movement. While some watch enthusiasts don't prefer this with a movement this industrial looking, it will be enjoyable for guitar collectors and music fans. Brian May's signature is also printed on the crystal, adding to their appeal.
Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83 Conclusion
Although I would love to see the SKX diving watch return, I appreciate that Seiko has been having fun with the 5KX line. I'm not going diving, a timing bezel is functional, and there are so many fun options on this platform for seasoned collectors.
Watches like the Brian May Red Special LE are also a great way to bring new people into the hobby with a quality mechanical watch that will provide more long-term value than just a connection to their favorite guitar player.
Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83 Specifications
Name: Seiko 5 Sports
Reference Number: SRE83
MSRP: $550
Diameter: 42.5mm
Height: 46mm
Thickness: 13.4mm
Lug Width: 22mm
Movement: 4R36
Power Reserve: 41 hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Hardlex
Crown: Push-pull
Bezel: Unidirectional, 120 clicks
Strap: Nylon pass-through
Shop Other Straps for the Seiko 5 Sports Brian May Limited Edition SRPE83
Deployant FKM Rubber
Deployant Sailcloth
