Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 Review & Complete Guide
Seiko is mostly known by watch enthusiasts for its sports and dive watches. Not to mention the Seiko 5 collection. But the Seiko brand includes so much more than that. And its other models often fall in the shadow of other watches, at least if you ask watch enthusiasts.
You may think that Seiko is an expert in affordable dive and sports watches, but whilst that is true, Seiko also makes some great elegant dress watches too.
In 2010, the brand presented the Cocktail Time collection. This model collection was developed in collaboration with Shinobu Ishigaki from the Ishinohana Bar.
Originally, Seiko presented three watches that were inspired by his cocktails (hence the name of the collection). These watches proved to become too popular, that in 2016, Seiko found it appropriate to reissue them again. And ever since, their popularity has grown immensely.
Perhaps most importantly, more and more people have understood that Seiko is so much more than the SKX and its sports watches. Its elegant dress watches are also amazing in a number of different ways.
Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 Review
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The SRPB77 is, as mentioned, based on Seiko’s cocktail time collection, which means they are inspired by cocktails in their design. In addition to this, it is part of the Presage collection. What does this mean?
In Seiko’s own words:
”Presage combines a Japanese aesthetic sense with traditional craftsmanship and Seiko’s watchmaking skills in an original collection that offers Japanese beauty, quality and long-lasting performance.”
In other words, these watches are focused on traditional craftsmanship and beautiful classic lines, rather than function before form, although the Presage watches, like most other Seiko watches, are also extremely well-made for their price, too.
Without further ado, in this article, we are reviewing and looking closer at the Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77
Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 case
The watch is presented in a stainless steel case with a diameter of 40.5mm and a thickness of 11.8mm. Normally, dress watches tend to have a diameter of less than 40mm, but keep in mind that ”on-paper” dimensions are a whole lot different from dimensions in practice. The watch doesn’t wear too big by any means, and its thickness allows it to sit very slimmed on the wrist. With that said, it slips under a cuff effortlessly, which of course is a good thing seeing it is a dress watch.
In terms of case design, the lugs are perceived as quite short. They measure 47mm, but the focus on this watch has been put on the dial, and therefore, it makes out most of the length.
The whole case is polished to give it a glamorous and exclusive look. If it would have brushed finishing, it would risk looking too tool-like and sporty, which is obviously not what Seiko is trying to achieve with the SRPB77.
At 3 o’clock, we have a large crown. This is a push-pull and not a screw-down. A screw-down crown is not expected on a dress watch, since its water resistance isn’t as crucial. It does, however, have a water resistance of 50M. This is not actually 50 meters below the surface, but in watch language, it means it can handle water splashes but should not be submerged underwater. Considering the usage areas of dress watches, their water resistance shouldn’t be a huge issue, though.
For the crystal, Seiko has opted for its Hardlex crystal. And if you turn the watch around, you are presented with a nice surprise, which is the see-through case back. This allows you to see the automatic movement beating inside. In my opinion, seen-through case backs on dress watches are always a nice touch, seeing that, unlike tool watches, they don’t need to have a solid case back to ensure their water resistance and durability. And with that said, if you can, why not?
However, with that said, don’t expect the most beautifully finished and decorated movement at this price point. In fact, the movement is not decorated at all. But more on this further on.
Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 dial
The dial of the SRPB77 is definitely the star of the show when it comes to this watch. It has such intricate attention to detail, both small and large, that you simply cannot get bored of it. It’s just so elegantly balanced whilst having enough details and elements to not look boring. Seiko has really done a great job here, and it’s easy to see why this watch is so popular.
The watch has a wonderful silver dial with a textured sunburst effect. Because of the sunburst finish, it radiates the light in an absolutely incredible way that is uncommon to see on watches. With all of the details, this watch creates a complete light show which makes it extremely vibrant.
The watch has beveled blued hour and minutes hands which provide a beautiful contrast against the silver dial. With that said, the legibility of this watch is actually quite good. We really cannot emphasize how good the dial is. It really needs to be experienced to be fully appreciated.
Another beautiful detail of this dial is the applied polished hour markers which are sharp and aggressively faceted which means they reflect the light well.
The dial is extremely clean, but that is because the details and elements that make this watch up do all the talking. The small details are simply so well-finished that they become the highlight of the dial anyways.
Positioned at 3 o’clock, Seiko has placed the date window. Yes, it does affect the symmetry of the dial, and yes, it would look cleaner without it, but it does serve a practical purpose for everyday wear.
Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 movement
The Seiko Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 is equipped with the in.-house Seiko caliber 4R35. This is an automatic and mechanical movement that has both a manual winding function and hacking seconds for more accurate time-setting. The movement beats with a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. The movement has a power reserve of 41 hours and 23 jewels.
The good news about this movement is that it has proven to be a reliable and durable workhorse that can continue to tick for years and need little to no maintenance. This movement incorporates Seiko’s Dia-shock technology device that is used to increase the movement’s resistance to shocks.
As mentioned, the movement is not decorated, but it is still nice to look at. In addition, for this watch, Seiko has also used a rotor in a gold tone. Although it’s not finished to perfection like a Patek Philippe (which costs substantially more), the see-through case back still works as a nice reminder of the lovely piece of craftsmanship that is ticking inside. This is particularly something that a watch nerd will appreciate.
Seiko Presage SRPB77 bracelet
This Seiko Presage cocktail time is presented on a stainless steel ”H” link bracelet with both polished and brushed elements. This is interesting as it is the first part of the watch that has satin-brushed parts.
The bracelet has a twin push button tri-fold clasp closure. In terms of design, the bracelet looks very sleek and elegant. Its design goes very well together with the watch and adds a touch of sporty elegance, whilst keeping it clean. The bracelet tapers slightly from the case to the bracelet for improved comfort and elegance.
The hidden clasp keeps the bracelet refined and looking like a perfect match for a classy watch like this.
Specifications
- Caliber: Seiko 4R35, automatic wind, 21,600 vibrations per hour (6 beats per second)
- Power Reserve: 41 hours
- Jewels: 23
Conclusion
When it comes to the Presage cocktail time range, it receives mostly praise and appreciation. And we can surely understand why. This watch is exceptionally well-finished and has decorations and details out of the ordinary for a watch in its price range. Seiko has truly paid attention to the details, and the result is a classy, refined, and exceptionally elegant classy timepiece that works great for more formal occasions.
In comparison to many other dress watches on the market, it’s evident that the SRPB77 offers incredible value both in terms of finish and quality. If you are looking for a beautiful and classic dress watch, you really cannot go wrong with this one.
The Presage ”Cocktail Time” SRPB77 is available to order on Amazon.
