When Shohei Ohtani signed his record $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last December, it marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Japanese superstar. Now, Seiko pays tribute to this historic move with two limited-edition Prospex watches dressed in Dodgers colors.
The first model, SBEJ023, builds on Seiko's Mechanical Divers 1968 Heritage GMT design. The watch features a black dial with a blue rotating bezel, while the GMT hand and logo appear in red – a nod to the Dodgers' signature palette. Ohtani's influence is evident in subtle details: his uniform number 17 is engraved on the crown, and his signature adorns the clasp.
For collectors seeking a different look, the SBEJ025 offers a clean white dial that stands out against its blue accents. Both models carry "SHOHEI OHTANI LIMITED EDITION" on the caseback, along with individual serial numbers.
Seiko's production run reflects the exclusivity of these timepieces. The black SBEJ023 will see 1,700 pieces worldwide, while the white-dialed SBEJ025 is limited to just 500 units. Each watch comes with a price tag of ¥330,000 (approximately $2,200 USD).
The watches will be released on February 7, 2025, though Seiko has already opened reservations through its member-only online platform. Given Ohtani's popularity in both Japan and the United States, these pieces are likely to appeal to watch enthusiasts and baseball fans alike.
Technical specifications include the proven 6R54 automatic movement, a 41-hour power reserve, and water resistance to 200 meters – features that align with Prospex's reputation for durability. The GMT function allows wearers to track time across different zones, useful for following games in both Japan and the US.
Kristin Kaye
Insatiably curious about human expression, she immerses herself in literature, theater, art, and dance. Her academic journey led to degrees in Modern Literature, where she delved into The Furioso, and Historical Sciences with a focus on Contemporary History. Her studies took her to the prestigious Erasmus University Rotterdam, broadening her international perspective.
Her passion for culture isn't confined to personal enjoyment—it spills onto the pages of various publications. There, she explores not only artistic endeavors but also civil rights issues and the myriad ways human culture manifests itself. For her, writing about these topics isn't just a profession; it's an irresistible calling that stems from her deep-seated fascination with the human experience.