Last Updated on February 16, 2021 by swisswatchreview
While there are several models produced as an homage to the legendary Submariner from Rolex, Seiko is a highly popular choice. The SKX031, introduced in 1996, is a classic tribute to the Submariner and its sales have been growing year after year ever since.
In this review, let us take a closer look at the Seiko SKX031 and consider its specs, features and other details to find out why it is so famous around the world.
Seiko SKX031 Review – UPDATED 2021
The Seiko SKX031 is different from other homage watches as it retains a lot of originality of design while giving you the flavor of the Submariner.
Design
As a diver’s watch, the Seiko SKX031 comes with a big dial with a high-contrast display and a rotating bezel. It features bold hands and hour markers that contrast against the black background. They are also coated with lume for better visibility in low-light conditions.
The dial offers a day/date display at the position of 3 o’clock like most modern watches. The dial also displays movement and water resistance rating. The stainless steel casing has a diameter of 39mm and a thickness of 12mm, making it a popular option for men. The crown stands at 3 o’clock and has a screw-down design to avoid any accidental pulling when in water.
The strap of this Seiko is constructed out of thick rubber and has a buckle-style clasp closure. It has a width of 22mm. one can replace the strap if intended.
Movement
The Seiko SKX031 is equipped with a famous 7S26 Workhorse movement that Seiko fans like to have in their watches. It is a 21-jewel movement with a beat rate of 21,600 BPH and gives a smooth 6 ticks per second as compared to 1 tick in standard quartz movement. It offers a power reserve of 43 hours on a full winding and there is no manual hacking.
Crystal
The front of the watch stays protected with a Hardlex crystal glass from Seiko. This glass is generally used in several models. It is made out of a hardened mineral crystal to give an amazing resistance to knocks and scratches.
Water Resistance
The Seiko SKX031 has a water resistance rated at 100m or 10 bar. This rating makes it ideal for swimming, surfing, snorkeling and other water sports.
Pros
- Popular diver design
- 100m water resistance rating
- Day/date display
- Automatic movement
- Smooth 6 ticks per second
- Value for money
Cons
- Markers are not aligned precisely
Seiko SKX031 Specs & Features
Specifications
Model Number – SKX031
Crystal Material – Hardlex
Display Type – Analog
Case Material – Stainless Steel
Case Diameter – 39mm
Case Thickness – 12mm
Movement – 7S26 Automatic
Strap Material – Rubber
Water Resistance Depth – 100 meters
Band Width – 22mm
Features
- Hour and minute hand design matches SKX007 diver watch and not the ‘Mercedes-style’ hand
- Comes in a variety of strap options including a bracelet and a rubber strap
- Easy to read dial and framed index markers matching the calendar window. The second hand is visible in low light and the screw-in crown adds to the look and feel
- Modest thickness makes it easy to wear under long-sleeved shirts
- The bezel is a rotating one with minute numbering
- Rubber band can be replaced with a strap using a tool
Seiko SKX031 Vs SKX007 – How They Compare?
Both the SKX031 and SKX007 are parts of the Seiko diver’s range. They offer exceptional Seiko quality but at a budget-friendly price. While these models often appear to be similar in many respects, there are some key differences between the two.
The case of the SKX007 is 42 mm in diameter while the SKX031 measures 38mm, making it a smaller looking model. The lugs on the SKX007 are 22mm which makes it easy to change the strap. For the SKX031, it is 20mm though you can find a replacement strap for this watch.
In terms of weight, both the watches are almost the same. The biggest possible difference in weight is 11g. And there is a 4mm difference in the size of the case. The SKX031, therefore, suits smaller wrists.
Talking about the dial, there is no notable difference between the two Seiko models. However, the 4mm difference in size means the markers are more crowded, hands smaller and the dial feeling more cramped. Taking a look at the hands, you can feel that the hands of the SKX007 are sharper at the edges and the lume makes it easier to see them in the dark. The SKX031, on the other hand, has a tapered shape throughout. The second hand is also thick with a tapered tip. Both these are well-lumed.
The right choice between the Seiko models comes down to personal preferences. The real difference lies in size. You should pick the SKX031 if you have a small wrist. The classic SKX007 with jubilee band is a better choice for those who have a medium or big wrist.
SKX013 Vs Mini Turtle
Both the Seiko SKX013 and Mini Turtle come from the same line of the brand with dive features and are nearly identical in size. Talking about the difference, the Mini Turtle has a date-only design with externally-mounted cyclops to look more like a Rolex.
At the heart of the Mini Turtle is an automatic-winding 4R35 caliber movement with 41 hours of power reserve and hacking. The SKX013, on the other hand, utilizes a simple 7S26 Workhorse movement. The main difference lies in the visual effect of the dial sizes. The Seiko SKX013 has a smaller dial as compared to Mini Turtle and looks more vintage.
The Seiko SKX031 is an amazing diver’s watch that should appeal to you if you are looking for an automatic model with accuracy. The 100m water-resistance rating should be enough for most active users. Overall, it is a well-constructed watch that offers great value for money.
