Introducing the Seiko Prospex ‘Kame’: A Dive Watch with a Heart for Turtles
A Watch with a Mission: Saving the Turtles
Seiko’s iconic ‘Turtle’ dive watch, beloved by enthusiasts worldwide, is taking a stand to protect the very creatures it symbolizes. In a heartwarming initiative, Seiko has partnered with the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre (CTRC) in Australia, a dedicated organization rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles.
The ‘Turtle’ Legacy: A Timeless Design
The ‘Turtle’ is more than just a watch; it’s a series of timepieces with a rich history. Starting with the 6306/9 model in 1976, Seiko has consistently delivered on quality and style under the Prospex label since 2016. With various movements and subtle dial adjustments, the ‘Turtle’ has become a beloved companion for watch enthusiasts across generations.
A Limited Edition with a Cause
To support CTRC’s vital work, Seiko has launched the limited-edition Prospex SRPM04K ‘Kame.’ Named after the Japanese word for ‘turtle,’ this watch is inspired by the natural beauty of Fitzroy Island, a sea turtle sanctuary on the Great Barrier Reef. For every sale, Seiko donates a portion to CTRC, ensuring that the organization can continue its crucial mission. Additionally, Seiko will document the recovery journey of a turtle named Kame, sharing updates on their social media channels.
Design Inspired by Nature’s Paradise
The Prospex ‘Kame’ boasts a unique dial texture, resembling an oil painting up close but transforming into a shimmering ocean view from a distance. Its fumé color scheme transitions from vibrant turquoise to deep blue, capturing the essence of a Pacific paradise. The minute hand, in seafoam green, stands out against the unchanged hour hand, seconds hand, and hour markers, all treated with Seiko’s Lumibrite for enhanced visibility.
The dial is protected by a Hardlex crystal and framed by a dark blue ceramic dive bezel insert with a seafoam green 20-minute segment and a lumed pip. The bezel frame, in a gold tone, mimics the shimmering sunlight on the ocean’s surface, adding a touch of elegance.
Functionality Meets Style
Functionally, the Prospex ‘Kame’ is a true diver’s watch, offering 200m water resistance thanks to its screw-down crown and caseback. While the CTRC isn’t explicitly mentioned on the case, each caseback is numbered, signifying its limited edition status of 1,000 pieces.
The watch comes with a brushed steel three-link bracelet and a dark blue rubber dive strap with a steel pin buckle, ensuring versatility and comfort.
Powered by a Reliable Movement
Under the hood, the Prospex ‘Kame’ is driven by the Seiko caliber 4R36, a well-respected automatic movement with a 3Hz beat rate and a 41-hour power reserve. This workhorse movement ensures reliable timekeeping, and the watch can also be hand-wound for added convenience.
A Beautiful Tribute to Nature
Among the many ‘Turtle’ variations released by Seiko, the ‘Kame’ stands out for its stunning aesthetics. It captures the essence of a pristine island paradise, making it a true collector’s item. With its limited edition status and the cause it supports, the ‘Kame’ is a watch that tells a story beyond its timekeeping capabilities.
Availability and Price
The Seiko Prospex SRPM04K ‘Kame’ is exclusively available in Seiko’s Australian and New Zealand markets, priced at A$995 (~$650). Each watch comes with an additional dark blue rubber dive strap with a brushed steel pin buckle, making it a complete package for dive enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Note: All images and specifications are provided by Seiko and Gear Patrol. For more information, visit Seiko’s website and Gear Patrol’s article.