SLA019 Deep Forest: the grail, the first of the new generation, and I'd take it over every modern one
Look at it. This is my grail.
Look at it. This is my grail watch. The SLA019, or the SBDX021 in Japan, the Deep Forest. It's a personal thing, but this is the watch I wanted. I wanted the 017, but for me this one is the grail of Marinemasters. Honestly, this is more of a showcase than a review. I don't care about the modern ones. This is my favourite piece.
Basel 2018, 1,968 pieces, gone and dead
It was released at Basel World in 2018, after the discontinuation of the SBDX017, which followed on from the famous SBDX001. So this was the first twerp of the new generation of Marinemasters, limited to 1,968 pieces as part of the commemoration of the Hi-Beat movement anniversary for Seiko. This one is number 1132, so it's a late edition. We all know the early ones go to the Japanese.
I remember when it came out I wanted it so desperately, and I couldn't afford it. They're all gone now. Dead. Something's coming in the future, but these are the ones we wish would live forever. I prefer them to the new ones.
Deep forest, bros
The green. It's said to reflect the lush verdant tones of the ancient cedar trees on Yakushima, the subtropical island at the southern end of the Japanese archipelago. Apparently it's all bollocks. But believe it. I do believe it. I'm not a green fan, but just look at it. Unreal scenario, bro. So verdant and deep with its sunburst dial. Perfection handset. A sight to behold.
Big, long and I quite enjoy it
44.3 mm wide, 50.5 mm lug to lug, 15.4 mm thick and a 20 mm lug spacing, with these ridiculous long lengths that everyone hates but I quite enjoy. They're massive and difficult to size for you spaghetti twaggler stones. For me it's a pleasure. On the wrist it's a bastard, I swear to God.
Prospex X on the crown, the way they used to do it. Drilled lugs. Coin edging. And a ceramic bezel, not like the new ones, all ceramic here, with bezel action that is for the beach.
Verdict
There's one thing that needs improving, something unprotected, but it's a minor defect in a twerp that is very special. The 047 is nice, but this 019 is better. Stay with me, bros.
