The Alpinist dates back to 1959, when Seiko built it for Japanese mountaineers. The SPB121 is the modern version: an emerald sunburst dial, gold-tone markers, an inner rotating compass ring and two crowns. At 39.5 mm with 200 m water resistance, it’s dressy enough for the office and tough enough for the trail.
Who it’s for
People who want a versatile, distinctive everyday watch with a story, and fans of green dials.
Buying tips
- It replaced the much-loved SARB017. Collectors pay more for that discontinued reference. Track both if you’re undecided.
- The 6R35 can run fast or slow out of the box. Ask about timekeeping on used pieces.
- Black, white and limited dials (SPB117, SPB119 and others) share the case. Prices vary by dial.
| Brand | Seiko |
|---|---|
| Reference | SPB121 |
| Case size | 39.5 mm |
| Case material | Stainless steel |
| Movement | Automatic, Seiko 6R35 |
| Power reserve | About 70 hours |
| Water resistance | 200 m |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Production | 2020 – present |
| Typical market price | around $750.00 (estimate; see tracked prices) |
Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121 price history
How we measure: eBay figures are the median of matching US listings after removing accessories, parts and statistical outliers. "Asking" means listed prices; "sold" means completed sales. Retailer prices are spot checks. Prices change constantly; confirm on the retailer's site.
