These Seiko Peanuts Limited Edition watches channel the simplicity and imagination of their classic inspiration, and welcomes Snoopy into the Seiko family.
The Peanuts series isn't one you'd usually think of when considering watch collabs, but the 55th Anniversary of the Seiko 5 Sports collection has already kicked off with an interesting Ultraseven-themed watch.
You get the feeling there are plenty more unexpected releases in store for us in this Seiko 5 watches celebration. Though, this Peanuts-themed watch is a great starting point.
Overview:
Dial Art/Design Inspiration
One of the surprising joys of this release is the monochrome black-and-white look. It's a perfect homage to the vintage Peanuts comics and comes out crisp on this pair of Seiko watches.
Obviously, black and white are also the colours of the iconic beagle Snoopy, who makes several appearances in this limited edition range. The first watch, the SRPK25, Snoopy is seen with a surfboard on the beach. And, on the case back, he's depicted happily riding a wave. It's characteristic of the laid-back nature of the character, and also of this fun, relaxed design.
The SRPK27's artwork features Snoopy using his black ears as propellers, taking flight across the smooth white dial. On the back, the beagle's best friend Woodstock, is seen parachuting down to safety.
Full comic strips are seen on the inside of the watch's boxes to complete a charming set of vintage artwork. The two models also feature a Snoopy pawprint on the crown for a finishing touch.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPK25
The SRPK25 is the more classic-looking Seiko 5 Sports of the pair, coming with a sporty numbered bezel and, aside from the Snoopy artwork, a minimal dial.
One of the real selling points of this watch is that nylon strap. You don't often see this case and strap combo, but when Seiko pulls it out, it looks great. Again, that monochrome design comes through with a striped white and grey colourway which is very appealing.
There's a convenient day-date window at 3 o'clock, and a calibre 4R36 automatic movement powering the watch. At a 38mm diameter, 12.1mm thickness, and 44.2 lug-to-lug, this watch is also very comfortable. That's enhanced by the fabric strap, too.
The depiction of Snoopy surfing goes well with this unique, yet laid-back design, which makes the SRPK25 a great addition to any watch collector's set.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPK27
The Seiko Peanuts Collaboration SRPK27 blends a sporty dial with a thinner, more refined bezel and leather strap. The result is a somewhat dressy watch, that has a relaxed flair to it.
This leather strap watch features the 'propeller' Snoopy design, with a touch of yellow coming from the co-pilot and small bird, Woodstock. It's a cute artwork, and adds to the character of this vintage comic-inspired timepiece.
Seiko has opted for a numbered dial with an almost hand-drawn type. These are the fun bits of attention to detail we expect from this type of collaboration. There's also a moment of yellow at the edge of the seconds hand, which breaks into this black-and-white themed piece nicely.
The SRPK27 features the same 4R36 automatic movement as its partner, but has a slimmer 36.4mm diameter, 12.5mm thickness, and 44.4mm lug-to-lug.
Final Verdict
The Seiko Peanuts Collaboration wasn't expected, but it has certainly surpassed expectations. Both watches are full of the charm and character of Charles Schulz's original series.
Much like Peanuts comics, these watches are simple and clean. The artwork doesn't take up the whole dial, nor do the watches explode with colour. The vintage look is an excellent pairing with the crisp look of the Seiko 5 Sports, which could encourage more than a few watch enthusiasts to take a look at these automatic watches.
This is a great release for any fan of the Peanuts series, and for any Seiko fan in general.
