Seiko has expanded its range of (very) reasonably priced sports watches with the Seiko 5 Sports Field Sports Style GMT (SSK023 and SSK025). Available in black-coated steel or stainless steel, it retains the military-inspired aesthetics of its time-only counterparts, while incorporating an additional hour hand showing a second time zone.
Initial thoughts
The new models evoke a sense of familiarity with their “field” style dial and 24-hour markers, but with a twist. This time, the dials adopt a more utilitarian style, departing from the vintage-inspired aesthetic design found in counterparts such as the SRPG35 and SRPJ85.
The “black on black” SSK025 achieves a great look for this field style of watch. By utilising this monochromatic aesthetic, the orange highlights on the end of the seconds and GMT hands give an extremely satisfying contrast. It’s also great to see the day window has now gone, being simplified down to just the date we see here.
The SSK025
Beyond these cosmetic changes, the new models should be accurately described as dual time zone watches with an independently adjustable 24-hour hand, rather than true GMT watches that feature an adjustable local-time hour hand, as seen in higher-end models from Grand Seiko or Tudor. Although setting the time for a different time zone involves a few additional steps, it represents an acceptable compromise considering its affordability.
The pricing of the new Field Sports Style depends on the colour of the case: the black-coated steel SSK025 is priced at US$400 with a leather strap, while the all-steel SSK023 with its matching bracelet is retailed with an extra US$30. Though pricier than the standard time-only models, the inclusion of a second time zone makes opting for this over the regular production model a straightforward choice for those who need the added functionality.
Now with a second time zone
The SSK023 and SSK025 represent the newest additions to Seiko’s affordable 5 Sports collection, which underwent a complete overhaul in 2019. Afterward, the brand introduced the Field Sports Style sub-line, showcasing distinct military-style watches with a unique bezel-less design. These timepieces include a second set of numerals on the dial, indicating military, or 24 hour, time.
The model is being offered in two variations: one with a resemblance to the Explorer II, characterised by its all-steel configuration and a fixed bezel with engraved numerals on the 24-hour scale in black (SSK023), and a black-coated steel version, with the bezel displaying the hour scale in grey (SSK025).
Both versions showcase a textured black dial adorned with fully lumed and applied numerals, a solitary date window positioned at three o’clock, and the fixed bezel surrounding the domed Hardlex crystal. Additionally, both the seconds hand and the second time zone hand have a orange-coloured tip.
Except for these alterations, the latest Field Street Style maintains the relatively compact case size of its time-only equivalents. The steel case has a diameter of 39.4 mm and a height of 13.6 mm.
Powering the timepieces is the automatic cal. 4R34, discernible beneath the transparent case back. This movement mirrors the one featured in the 5 Sports GMT models, representing a modification of the cal. 4R36 present in the standard Seiko 5 Sports. It substitutes the day display of the cal. 4R36 with a 24-hour hand.
To set up the second time zone, it is necessary to initially adjust the watch to local time with the crown fully out in the second position and then push the crown in to its first position. Subsequently, rotating it clockwise will move the 24-hour hand forward, while turning it counterclockwise will make adjustments to the date.
The SSK025
Key facts and price
Seiko 5 Sports Field Sports Style GMT
Ref. SSK023 (steel)
Ref. SSK025 (black-coated steel)
Diameter: 39.4 mm
Height: 13.6 mm
Material: Steel or black-coated steel
Crystal: Hardlex
Water resistance: 100 m
Movement: Cal. 4R34
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date and second time zone hand
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz)
Power reserve: 41 hours
Strap: Matching bracelet with folding clasp (SSK023) or black NATO leather strap (SSK025)
Limited edition: No
Availability: At Seiko boutiques and select retailers starting January 2024
Price:
SSK025: US$400 (strap)
SSK023: US$430 (bracelet)
For more information, visit Seikowatches.com.
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