Opinion: Is the fixed bezel 5KX SRPE51 a worthy replacement for the Seiko SNXS79?
The Seiko SNXS79 is often billed as the $100 alternative to the Rolex Datejust and it’s not difficult to see why with its classic styling and clean design. If you’re late to the party, these are now really difficult to come by as Seiko phases out the 7S26 movement. However, with the recent release of several fixed bezel 5KX models (the SRPE51 in particular), I think we finally have a suitable replacement for the Seiko SNXS79.
Both watches draw inspiration from Seiko divers in their dial design, the SNXS79 from the 62MAS and the SRPE51 from the SKX. Both have applied indices with lume that glow for hours, so legibility in the dark should not be an issue. From pictures, it does seem that both watches share the same grey sunburst dial — a classic colour that goes with a variety of straps. While there are many models in the Seiko 5 line, there hasn’t really been one with a similar grey sunburst dial that’s easily available — until now.
Sizing is where we see the biggest difference. The SNXS79 is more suitable for me with its 37 mm diameter, and while the SRPE51 is larger with a 40 mm diameter and 44 mm lug-to-lug, it should still fit a wide range of wrists.
Another difference would be the “upgraded” 4R36 movement that hacks and hand-winds in the SRPE51. The stock bracelet on the SRPE51 is also of better quality, although it is still constructed of folded links and hollow end-links. Happy to report that drilled lugs are present to facilitate easy strap change as well. Water resistance has also been bumped up to 100 m in the SRPE51.
As you can see, the SRPE51 is very similar to the SNXS79 and has some nice upgrades as well. At $275, the SRPE51 is more than a worthy replacement to the older SNXS79 and makes for a fantastic everyday watch.
