Seiko’s 5 Sports line has been a go-to collection for affordable, reliable, and well-designed automatic watches for decades. In 2022, Seiko expanded the beloved lineup with a feature enthusiasts have long awaited—a mechanical GMT complication. The Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK001 and its sibling, the SSK003, marked this long-anticipated update, combining classic Seiko design language with global travel utility. But is the Seiko 5 Sports GMT a good watch? Let’s dive deep into both models, explore their pros and cons, compare them to similar watches, and help you decide if they deserve a spot in your collection.
Table of Contents
Overview: Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK001 and SSK003
The SSK001 features a bold black dial with a black and gray 24-hour bezel insert. Its sibling, the SSK003, sports a stunning blue dial with a matching blue and black bezel. Both watches are housed in a 42.5mm stainless steel case that echoes the iconic SKX007 diver case, measuring 13.6mm thick and with a lug-to-lug of 46mm—making them wearable on most wrists without looking oversized.
Inside beats Seiko’s in-house 4R34 movement, a reliable automatic caliber that offers hacking, hand-winding, and of course, the all-new GMT complication. With a power reserve of 41 hours and 21,600 vibrations per hour, it’s both a dependable and practical movement for daily use or travel.
Seiko Sports GMT 5 Release Date and Price
The Seiko 5 Sports GMT series was officially released in July 2022. With an MSRP of around $475 USD, the SSK001 and SSK003 offer one of the most affordable mechanical GMT options in the market today. Many consider this price point extremely competitive, given the overall build quality and heritage backing the Seiko name.
Design & Build Quality
The watches retain the rugged charm of the SKX series but introduce modern refinements. You get a Hardlex crystal with a date magnifier, a unidirectional 24-hour bezel, and a stainless steel five-link bracelet with a three-fold clasp.
While the crystal isn’t sapphire, the Hardlex is reasonably durable and maintains Seiko’s signature affordability. The 100-meter water resistance isn’t dive-grade but suffices for swimming and everyday wear. The case and bracelet finishing are surprisingly refined at this price level, with brushed surfaces and polished accents.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Case/Band | |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Case Size | – Thickness: 13.6mm – Diameter: 42.5mm – Lug-to-lug: 46.0mm |
| Crystal | Hardlex with lenses |
| LumiBrite | LumiBrite on hands and index(es) |
| Clasp | Three-fold clasp with push button release |
| Distance between lugs | 22mm |
Seiko 5 GMT Automatic Performance
The Seiko 5 GMT automatic experience centers around the independently adjustable GMT hand, which tracks a second time zone via the bezel. It’s a “caller GMT” rather than a “true GMT,” meaning the GMT hand is set independently instead of the local hour hand. While some may see this as a limitation, it works well for most users who need to monitor another time zone.
The 4R34 movement has shown good consistency in real-world performance, typically ranging within +15/-10 seconds per day—acceptable for this class.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movement | Caliber 4R34 |
| Movement Type | Automatic with manual winding |
| Power Reserve | Approx. 41 hours |
| Jewels | 24 |
| Functions | – 24-hour hand (dual time display) – Stop second hand function |
SSK001 vs. SSK003: Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re torn between the SSK001 and SSK003, the choice largely comes down to aesthetics. The SSK001’s black dial is more understated and versatile, while the SSK003’s blue dial offers a vibrant, sportier appeal. Both share identical specs, so your decision boils down to style preference.
Many users on watch forums and Reddit threads debating “What do you guys think of the Seiko 5 GMT?” lean toward the SSK003 for its eye-catching look, while others appreciate the classic and low-profile vibe of the SSK001.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point for a mechanical GMT
- In-house automatic movement with GMT complication
- Classic SKX-inspired design
- Comfortable on most wrists
- Strong brand reputation
Cons:
- Hardlex instead of sapphire crystal
- 100m water resistance (not dive-rated)
- Caller GMT, not traveler GMT
- No screw-down crown
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Other Details | |
| Water Resistance | 10 bar |
| Magnetic Resistance | 4,800 A/m |
| Weight | 161.0g |
| Features | – Rotating bezel (24-hour display) – Three-fold clasp with secure lock – See-through & Screw case back |
What Are Watch Enthusiasts Saying?
The reception of the Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK001 and SSK003 has been overwhelmingly positive in the watch enthusiast community. You’ll find countless reviews on YouTube, Reddit threads, and watch forums praising Seiko for delivering a mechanical GMT complication at such an accessible price.
Many collectors highlight the “fun factor” of the watch—it’s not trying to be a Rolex GMT-Master II; instead, it embraces its own identity with bold colors, rugged build quality, and excellent value. The Seiko GMT has even become a “gateway” piece for new collectors exploring mechanical complications for the first time.
Some recurring feedback from users includes:
- Positive: Smooth bracelet comfort, nostalgic design cues, and reliable GMT function.
- Constructive: Many wish for a sapphire crystal upgrade and a screw-down crown in future iterations.
Real-World Use Case: Who Is This Watch For?
This watch is perfect for:
- ✈️ Travelers and digital nomads needing a second time zone on their wrist.
- 🕒 First-time GMT buyers exploring their first automatic dual-time piece.
- 🎁 Gift shoppers looking for a durable, stylish watch under $500.
- 📷 Content creators and enthusiasts who want a photogenic, everyday timepiece.
While hardcore divers may prefer ISO-certified models, most casual users will appreciate the 100m water resistance for everyday life—washing hands, rain, and even swimming.
How to Use the GMT Function on the Seiko 5 Sports
- Set the main hour and minute hands to your local time.
- Rotate the bezel to align with the desired second time zone if needed.
- Adjust the GMT hand independently to point to the second time zone’s hour.
The 24-hour scale helps distinguish AM/PM in the second time zone, which is handy when calling relatives overseas or scheduling business calls abroad.
Design Details: A Nod to the SKX Legacy with New Enhancements
Seiko didn’t just add a GMT function and call it a day—they reimagined the spirit of the beloved SKX series in a fresh way.
The new Seiko 5 Sports GMT line includes three distinct dial variants:
- SSK001 (Black dial with red GMT hand)
- SSK003 (Blue dial with red GMT hand)
- SSK005 (Orange dial with black GMT hand)
Each version features a brightly colored GMT hand—red for the black and blue models and black for the orange model—ensuring strong contrast against the dial. To further aid legibility, all GMT hands are coated with Lumibrite, just like the main hour and minute hands and the applied indices. This ensures excellent visibility in low-light or nighttime conditions, a crucial feature for both travelers and adventurers.
Adding to the visual functionality, the two-tone rotating bezel is color-split to indicate day and night hours at a glance—a thoughtful touch for those tracking a second time zone. What makes this even more durable is Seiko’s choice of Hardlex glass for the bezel insert, offering scratch resistance and the tough resilience expected from the 5 Sports range.
The watch also debuts a new five-row bracelet design, echoing the SKX series but with modern flair. The center rows are polished to contrast against the brushed outer rows, creating a dynamic look that’s sporty, yet refined.
These small but impactful design choices elevate the GMT beyond a budget complication—they make it a complete, thoughtful package.
What Could Seiko Improve?
If there’s one thing fans hope for, it’s a Seiko 5 GMT “Pro” version in the future. Here’s what an ideal upgrade might include:
- Sapphire crystal for improved scratch resistance.
- A screw-down crown for better water resistance.
- A slimmer case profile for enhanced wearability.
- A “traveler GMT” version where the local hour hand is independently adjustable.
Even with these wishlist features, the current model remains unmatched at its price point.
Future Outlook: Will Seiko Expand the 5 Sports GMT Line?
Absolutely. Given the commercial success of the SSK001, SSK003, and SSK005 (orange dial), Seiko is expected to release additional GMT colorways and limited editions in the near future. Enthusiasts are speculating about everything from Pepsi bezels to PVD-coated models.
It wouldn’t be surprising if Seiko released a dive-grade GMT or incorporated more refined features over time while keeping the spirit of affordability alive.
Closing Thoughts
The Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK001 and SSK003 strike an outstanding balance between design, utility, and value. For under $500, you’re getting a robust automatic watch with a GMT complication from one of the most respected names in watchmaking.
While it may not be the ultimate tool watch, it’s certainly one of the best in its class—and a true crowd-pleaser for both casual wearers and seasoned collectors.
So if you’re still wondering: “Is the Seiko 5 Sports GMT worth it?” — the answer is a resounding yes.
Comparison with Non-Seiko GMT Watches
When assessing whether the Seiko 5 Sports GMT is a good buy, it’s worth comparing it with competitors outside the Seiko family:
1. Invicta Pro Diver GMT (NH34-powered)
This model recently entered the market as an even more affordable alternative, using the same 4R34 movement. However, it lacks the build finesse and heritage of Seiko. While the Invicta costs less, its quality control and bracelet feel don’t match Seiko’s standards.
2. Citizen Promaster GMT Quartz
A quartz option with superior water resistance and travel-ready features, but lacking the charm and mechanical soul of the Seiko. Also, the design is more tactical than versatile.
3. Orient World Map Revival
An automatic GMT with distinct retro flair, but bulkier and less mainstream in appeal. The Orient doesn’t have the SKX heritage and may not suit everyone’s wrist size.
4. Baltic Aquascaphe GMT (Swiss ETA 2893-2)
A microbrand offering a “true GMT” with premium specs—sapphire crystal, 200m water resistance, and Swiss movement—but comes at over twice the price. Great for collectors, not ideal for value-focused buyers.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Seiko Sports GMT 5?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly mechanical GMT from a reputable brand, the Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK001 and SSK003 deliver outstanding value. They combine Seiko’s signature reliability with modern travel functionality, wrapped in a nostalgic SKX-style case. Are they perfect? No. A screw-down crown, better water resistance, and sapphire crystal would have pushed them closer to tool-watch perfection. However, given the “Seiko Sports GMT 5 price,” they remain an unbeatable entry point into the world of GMT watches. For under $500, you’re getting a robust automatic watch with a GMT complication from one of the most respected names in watchmaking. While it may not be the ultimate tool watch, it’s certainly one of the best in its class—and a true crowd-pleaser for both casual wearers and seasoned collectors. So if you’re still wondering: “Is the Seiko 5 Sports GMT worth it?” — the answer is a resounding yes. If you’re considering your first GMT or want a stylish travel companion that doesn’t break the bank, either the SSK001 or SSK003 is a solid choice.
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