For sale we have a pre-owned Seiko Prospex Black Series, Willard Limited Edition, ref SPB257J1. It was part of the Seiko Heritage collection, realised in 2022. It is a recreation of the 1970 Captain Willard diver watch. It is a limited edition, with 5500 pieces worldwide. 
 
It has been a popular watch since its inception, with the Black Series being inspired by the mysterious world of night diving. The 2022 series was inspired by key moments from Seikos diving heritage – 1965, 1968 and 1970. 
The 1970 Divers modern reinterpretation was names ‘Captain Willard’ by fans of Martin Sheens character, who wore it in the ‘Apocalypse Now’ movie. The original 1970 Diver was worn by Japanese explorer Naomi Uemura, the first man in the world to climb the highest peaks of each of the five continents, wearing a Seiko Diver whilst he did it. 
 
The Orange colouring of the markers and lumibrite is designed for increased visibility in the dark of the sea at night. Orange is the colour of night divers lamps, allowing time to be read clearly. 
 
The watch is accompanied by Seikos first Original Nylon strap for divers, the ‘SEICHU’. It is made in Japan, with a traditional texture, following the intricate design of Kimono belts. It is specifically designed for flexibility and duarability. It also comes with a Seiko Silicone strap. 
 
The Propsex is designed for sports lovers and adventure seekers in the water, sky or land. They are a robust everyday wear, whatever the environment. 
 
It is still under its two-year guarantee. 
 
In our personal opinion, having worn this watch for a couple of weeks, it is a sleek and luxurious take on the original Willard. The use of the orange on the minute hand, second hand and 20 minute count down on the bezel, is eye-catching against the dark case and dial.
 
Full condition report below. Please see the images as these compliment and aid the description provided below.
 
Dial: 
In perfect condition.
 
Hands: 
In perfect condition.
 
Glass: 
In perfect condition, with no marking.
 
Crown: 
The crown is very good, with no obvious marking.
 
Case:
The case is very good, with no obvious marking. 
 
Caseback:
The case back is very good, with no obvious marking. 
 
Strap: 
The straps and buckles are in good original condition.
 
Movement: 
The movement is in good condition and is functioning well. It’s keeping time to +8 seconds a day, with an amplitude of 310 degrees and a beat error of 0.0 m/s.
 
Case dimensions: 
Case width: 42.75mm
Case width with crown: 45.25mm
Case length: 40.25mm
Case length lug to lug: 46mm
Case Depth: 14mm
Lug width: 20mm