The Seiko SNJ series of solar analog/digital dive watches got their start back in the early 1980s. This function-packed shrouded dive watch appeared on the wrist of Arnold Schwarzenegger himself in several iconic 80’s action films. Even if you’re not totally shredded, those with all wrist sizes will find it easy to appreciate the SNJ series of ana-digi divers.
They’re surprisingly comfortable on the wrist, boast the convenience of a quartz movement, solar charging, and a bunch of digital features that are sure to be useful throughout your day. Don’t be put off by the size of the 47.8mm sheathed case. Sure, it’s on the larger side, but the lug design and relatively short 50.5mm lug-to-lug distance make the watch much more wearable than the measurements imply.
A 200m water-resistant stainless steel case is surrounded by Seiko’s signature shroud, which is rendered in impact-resistant plastic. It protects the unidirectional dive-style bezel that you can use for timing a dive or other activity. On the left side of the case, two screw-down pushers handle the digital controls, while another crown on the right handles time-setting duties.
The unique look of the watch features a dive-inspired design with an analog hour, minute, and second display, while a small digital screen adds additional functionality. Bold, lume-filled indices and a set of wide hands make the watch supremely legible at a glance. The dial is protected by a durable Hardlex crystal.
Inside the watch, Seiko’s H851 movement keeps track of time. The movement is powered by light and requires just a bit of exposure to run for months. To conserve power, the watch will stop displaying the time when it hasn’t been exposed to light but jumps back to life as soon as it does.
At the top of the dial, you’ll find the digital screen which is capable of displaying 12- or 24-hour time, day/date, an additional time zone, stopwatch, or alarm.