With the recent reissue of the Seiko “Arnie,” a renewed interest in the original has also gained footing. Though always popular with collectors, Arnies shrouded beast from ‘Predator’ and ‘Commando’ has become a hot commodity that’s risen sharply in value and fallen off in availability. As much as I enjoy the H558 model, Seiko followed it up with a compact counterpart. Often referred to as the “Baby Arnie,” the H556 variants are just as capable, equally appealing, and lacking in almost zero ways compared to their much bigger brother. For some, that alone may be an attractive feature. At 39mm, they’re a full 7mm smaller in diameter, and its case shape, contouring, and lighter weight make it a dream on the wrist. It is functionally identical featuring an analog display with hacking seconds, large luminous plots, and instead of a depth meter, the chapter is marked in tachymetric scaling. Digitally, it offers day and date, alarm with hourly chime, second or local time zone, 1/100th sec. chronograph, and a push button back light. This example from November of ‘84 is a “Silver Wave” variant, which pays homage to Seiko’s long history of diver’s watches. By the 1980’s, it was used as a descriptor of JDM only models that offered screw down crowns and case backs, and that were designed for exceptional water resistance. Available in a mix of three color ways, these H556 Silver Waves are a rare treat, and for us, this model is the standout. The bright yellow dial and display are perfect, and the concave “compass” bezel insert is flawless. Rather than a “click” style, the bezel itself is a friction design that can be rotated smoothly in either direction and uses a gasket to hold it in place once set. The crown and case back are both screw down, and each threads securely for protection of the inner components. It is completely original right down to the hardlex crystal that only bears a couple of very small, light blemishes. The case is unpolished and all of the factory finishes are still crisp and sharply defined. Though originally fitted with a black composite strap, this one arrived on the “H” link stainless steel and PVD bracelet fitted to the export variant. It’s a seamless fit and nearly full length, and we’ve decided to leave it in place. Post service, and with a fresh battery installed, it’s keeping perfect time, and all functions are operable. In incredible condition, this JDM stunner is sure to be a fast favorite on any roster. 

Original Seiko “H” Link with PVD Hinges in Stainless Steel

Serviced 3/24

Diameter- 39.5mm

Lugs- 20mm