The faithful Willard: best bezel I've ever felt on a Seiko, shame about the dreaded X
The original
The Willard re-creation of the 1970 6105, the Apocalypse Now watch. Mr Jun found one never worn, sticker still on, the Zaratsu flawless. Later, in a twerp trade, it came to me. Block-ended hands where the 051 has little arrows. A ridiculous 4,350 on release, I think in 2019; Mr Jun paid £2,850. 45 mm, 13 thick, 49 lug to lug, 19 mm lugs, which is a bit ridiculous. Zaratsu everywhere, even around the bezel ring, which really pops.
The X of destruction
The horrendous X on the dial, the dreaded X. But that bezel. Lacquered, not ceramic, and the best bezel I've ever felt on a Seiko. It just feels so good. Horseshoe on the back, only etched, and it lacks the big bevel around the crystal. I'd have liked it. Factory silicone: dust magnet, very comfortable, metal keeper, get rid of it. Lume is fantastic. Massive but slim, the most comfortable of the three. Mine runs about plus seven. Bit disappointing.
Verdict
Properness cannot be overstated. 033 original, 051 reinterpreted, absolutely proper. One of the three finest Seiko divers. None higher.
