Prepare to be amazed by a hidden gem in the world of affordable timepieces! This Seiko x TicTac collaboration is a little-known marvel, offering a stunning design reminiscent of the iconic Rolex Explorer.
In 2019, TicTac, a Japanese watch retailer, joined forces with Seiko to commemorate its 35th anniversary. The result? A special edition watch that seamlessly merges Seiko's Alpinist with a dash of Rolex Explorer I magic. Imagine a blend of cathedral hands and a minimalist dial, with hour numerals at 12 and 6 o'clock—a vintage enthusiast's dream!
But here's the catch: this beauty was a limited edition exclusive to Japan, making it a rare find. The original model, SZSB006, is a favorite among Seiko enthusiasts, but the three additional 35th-anniversary models remain relatively unknown.
And this is where it gets intriguing. The Seiko x TicTac watch has another variation, taking cues from the modern Rolex Explorer I. It boasts metallic hour markers and numerals, presented in a unique font, on a sunburst dial available in navy blue, silver, or a captivating green-blue with a gilded seconds hand.
Fast forward to 2024, and TicTac's 40th anniversary brought a vintage-inspired revival. The SZSB032 was a striking contrast to its predecessor, featuring a creamy white dial, black accents, and the Alpinist handset in matte black.
Then, in 2025, the collaboration took an unexpected turn. Two new references, SZSB036 and SZSB035, were stealthily released, paying homage to the 2019 models with their blue-green and silver dials, respectively. The only twist? These new versions come with steel bracelets instead of leather straps.
Now, let's delve into what makes this Seiko x TicTac anniversary model stand out. It's a rare opportunity to see the Alpinist cathedral hands outside their usual collection, and when paired with a clean dial, it exudes classic elegance.
The real allure lies in its resemblance to the Explorer. Seiko's designers masterfully combined their mountaineering watch with Rolex's iconic model, creating a unique homage. While there are many Explorer-inspired watches, Seiko's distinct design language sets it apart.
The 40mm stainless steel case echoes the modern Explorer's dimensions, but a smaller size would truly capture the vintage essence. The only drawback? The entry-level 4R35 movement, which, despite its quirky design, has a modest power reserve.
As for availability, the Seiko x TicTac anniversary collection is exclusively sold in Japan. However, it's not impossible to get your hands on one. The original references are readily available on the resale market, and the silver and green-blue dials, reminiscent of the modern Explorer, are still available from TicTac.
TicTac now offers global shipping through Worldshopping, making it accessible to international buyers. Despite the additional shipping costs, the exchange rate makes it an attractive purchase.
At ¥55,000 (approximately $347), this Seiko x TicTac collaboration is an incredible value for a watch of such beauty and craftsmanship. It's a must-have for Seiko enthusiasts and anyone seeking an affordable, stylish timepiece.
But wait, there's more! The controversy lies in the movement. Some argue that Seiko should have opted for the more robust 6R35 movement, found in the Alpinist collection, which boasts a superior power reserve. What's your take? Is the current movement a deal-breaker, or does the watch's design and affordability outweigh this minor detail? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
