![spb 153 spb 153](https://k8q7r7a2.stackpathcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Seiko-Prospex-Diver-SPB153-Captain-Willard-coolest-Seiko-2020-13.jpg)
Where the strap mounts to the case is more like a cutout in the circular design than it is a formal lug. The shape of the lugs is interesting too. It nestles into the center of the wrist just right, and stays out of the way while moving, all while providing a unique look. The polished finishing adds a smooth touch to the bottom and sides of the case, helping it mesh comfortably with your wrist. While the case looks sharp and broad from above, check it out from the side and you’re in for a surprise. At first, I thought it would get in the way, but some clever case design and contouring keeps it in check. This guard is the most recognizable feature on the vintage 6105-8110 that this watch is modeled after. This hump acts as a crown guard, protecting the crown from bumps and accidental manipulation. What makes the case of the Willard so unique is the asymmetrical case with its large, pronounced hump taking up nearly a quarter of the circumference of the watch. The case is treated to Seiko’s DiaShield hardening, with brushing on the top surface of the watch and a polished surface on the wedge-like case sides. It measures 46.6mm from lug to lug, while clocking in at a reasonable 13.2mm thick. Measuring in at 42.7mm wide, the stainless steel case on the SPD153 “Captain Willard” is narrower than it looks. Let’s dig into the nitty gritty of the watch. Resemblance to this funky fish aside, this modern interpretation of the Willard reminds me not to judge a book by its cover. They’re able to travel up to 16 miles per day, leap out of the water, and like the SPB153, dive to depths up to 200m.
![spb 153 spb 153](https://www.horologii.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/tumblr_pzcstz16Td1tuvwugo6_500.jpg)
The fish gets a bad rap for being an odd shape, but in spite of that, they’re incredibly capable. The oblong shape and humped crown guard reminded me immediately of the humble ocean sunfish (I vote we nickname this one the “sunfish”). Immediately, the case shape jumped out at me.
#SPB 153 PROFESSIONAL#
After a very professional process of “calling dibs”, the watch was in my hands for this review. Fortunately, I’m in the watch journalism business and we had one inbound. Seeing the funky case shape and hearing some positive buzz about the watch only made this yearning worse. The mix of screen time, unique design, and solid feature set made the 6105-8110 a prime candidate for a modern refresh at a more accessible price point than the likes of the SLA033.Īs soon as the new Seiko SPB153 aka “Captain Willard” hit the market, I was dying to get my hands on one. And let’s not forget that awesome “traffic light” seconds hand with its polygonal plot of lume and bright red dot sweeping around the dial. It’s a perfect watch for a military character to wear, as it’s built like a tank and values both function and form. While the dial and bezel are busy, they remain legible and functional. It’s broad, flat, and has a crown guard like no other. The funky case shape is immediately recognizable. The watch was worn on screen by the fictional character Captain Willard, portrayed by Martin Sheen in the cult-classic “ Apocalypse Now”. Seiko’s 6105-8110 “Captain Willard” is one of the most recognizable and sought after vintage Seiko divers.