Following the success of the 62MAS, the first real attempt at a dive watch worthy of the classification, Seiko would go on to build a legacy as a diver focused brand willing to set, meet, and surpass whatever milestones were dropped in the water in front of them. This approach was bound to ensure that history was made and icons were created. The 6105 is certainly much of both. Though the mention likely brings to mind the 8110/9 worn by Capt. Willard in the Kubrick film ‘Apocalypse Now,’ the former 8000/9 is viewed by many as the better 6105. I’d be hard pressed to choose a side in this fight, but the first to admit the 8000 certainly has it’s merits. Where the latter is housed in a massive, and at times, cumbersome asymmetrical case, the earlier variant calls a bold but sleek “C” shaped tonneau home. A full 4mm narrower, its a perfect 41mm. The bezel shares a similar height and coin edge appearance that offers a strong profile, but we’ll give this win to the “Willard” for the click bearing action over a friction ring. The large 6.5mm “SEIKO” crown is a carry over from the 62MAS, but has been repositioned to 4 o’clock, and sits in a snug recess that keeps it well protected, and comfortable on the wrist. Unlike the 8110, however, the 8000 crown has no lock mechanism. In the end, our recommendation is to choose both, starting with this example from March of 1970. The textured matte black dial is framed by a bold silver minute track, and the hours are deep rectangular frames brimming with luminous. The original luminous material is present throughout, and has developed an even smoky gray patina. The polished hour and minute hands have mostly kept their original mirror finish, and the “stoplight” sweep nearly touches the chapter. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction with just enough friction to firmly stay in place once set. The insert is phenomenal and shows very little visible wear or paint loss. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement mineral crystal, and post service, the hacking 6105B is keeping near perfect time. The deep factory finishes and corners are super sharp, and the case back is free from marring. We’ve paired it with an Uncle Seiko “Chocolate Bar” strap for a vintage feel with a modern fit and finish. An historic Seiko diver “grail” thats bound to be a favorite on any roster.

Uncle Seiko “Chocolate Bar” Black Composite Rubber

Serviced 11/16/22

Diameter- 41mm

Lugs- 19mm