Seiko Recraft SNKP27 Review & Complete Guide
Seiko is a watch brand that truly has something for everyone. Affordable tool watches, expensive luxury watches (generally presented under the Grand Seiko brand), dress watches, dive watches, funky vintage-inspired watches, and everything in between.
In this article, we are going to look closer at a watch that is the last-mentioned. Specifically the Seiko Recraft SNKP27. The Recraft collection from Seiko consists of timepieces that, in Seiko’s words ”showcases Seiko’s prestigious heritage of time-changing innovations and visionary introductions with retro style.
The Seiko Recraft SNKP27 is a perfect example of a timepiece that has a perfect balance between retro-inspired design and modern build quality. The SNKP27 is appreciated by those who are looking for a unique, affordable, and well-built timepiece that stands out from the crowd in the world of elegant timepieces, but at the same time is clean, classy, and truly timeless.
Without further ado, in this article, we are reviewing and looking closer at the Seiko Recraft SNKP27.
As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Seiko Recraft SNKP27 case
The watch is presented with a unique and funky case design with a retro-inspired look that may not suit everyone’s taste and style but is nice for those who want something traditional and classic.
It has a cushion-shaped, squared design with great attention to detail. The upper side of the case has a brushed finish and this is contrasted by polished sides. But the sides are not really ”sides”, because the case is designed in a way that the sides are sloped/angled. This makes the case appear slightly larger, but it also creates a clean and refined look as the sloped angles surround the case and thus prevent the case from being square and perhaps a bit boring and too traditional.
The case measures 40mm in diameter, 46mm lug-to-lug, and 12mm in thickness, but keep in mind that because of its cushion shape, the dimensions can be perceived differently on the wrist compared to more classic case shapes.
Positioned at 3 o’clock, it has a crown that sits slightly recessed into the case, keeping it somewhat protected. It’s also good that the crown is slightly recessed into the case as it improves comfort and prevents it from digging into the wrist.
On top of the case, it uses, unsurprisingly, Seiko’s proprietary Hardlex crystal. As a subtle detail, the crystal sits raised above the case about 0.5mm
The SNKP27 has a water resistance of 50 ATM/50 meters, which essentially just means it is splash-proof, but this is not the type of timepiece you’d go swimming with anyway.
Recraft SNKP27 dial
The dial is undoubtedly the star of the show with this watch, and it is also this that stays the truest to its classic and retro-inspired look.
The core design of this watch includes a dark green, an emerald color that is beautifully contrasted by gold accents. Indeed gold and green go very well together.
The dial is divided into two key sections, where the center of the dial has a circular shape with a sunburst finish, meaning it reflects the light beautifully and shifts color and appearance depending on how the light hits it.
To make a distinct contrast between the center of the dial, Seiko has added a black colored frame around it. The outer section of the dial is also slightly raised for additional contrast and depth. Looking at the dial, you’ll notice it has white dots, which you may mistake for luminescent material, but this is not the case. This watch has no luminescence. This can affect the legibility in low-lit conditions, but it’s not a major issue in this type of timepiece.
Positioned at 3 o’clock, the watch has a day and date window with a gold-colored frame. If you’re going to wear this as an everyday or dress watch, the day and date indicator can be convenient and handy.
The outer section of the dial is also emerald-colored with a slight sunburst finish. In addition, it has green printed ”stripes”. On top of the outer section, Seiko has added gold-colored applied rectangular hour markers which stretch all the way to the outer section of the dial. Of course, the hands of the watch are also gold-colored and have a rectangular beveled design as well as a polished finish.
Overall, the dial is really well-executed and has a perfect balance between elegance and class. Lastly, thanks to its design, it ensures that you will never get bored of it. It also stands out from most other watch dials on the market, thus adding to its appeal.
SNKP27 movement
The watch is powered by the Seiko in-hour automatic caliber 7S26. Seiko did not opt for its 4R movement for this watch, and although it is better technically, it was probably a wise decision, because it would likely otherwise be too expensive to be considered exceptional value for money, which this watch is, after all.
The movement has still proven to be a durable workhorse caliber that can continue to tick year after year without any need for maintenance. The movement beats with a frequency of 21600 BPH, has a power reserve of 41 hours, and 21 jewels.
The movement does the job and it does the job well. Watch enthusiasts, in particular, will appreciate that Seiko did not opt for a quartz movement for this watch.
And at this price point, Seiko has been able to offer this watch at a price that makes it great value for money.
If you flip the watch, you’ll notice it is equipped with a see-through case back, allowing you to see the mechanical action. Whilst the movement is not decorated, it’s still nice to be able to see the technical craftsmanship behind it.
Strap
The watch is presented on a brown double-layered calf leather strap with stitching on the borders. The strap has a standard signed tang buckle. For comfort, the strap tapers from 22mm at the lugs to 19m.
The leather strap goes very well together with the classy and elegant appearance of this watch, and it is also very comfortable to wear.
Specifications
- Movement: Seiko in-house automatic caliber 7S26
- Lug width: 22mm
- Frequency: 21600 BPH
- Jewels: 21
- Crystal: Hardlex
- Power reserve: 41 hours
- Diameter: 40mm
- Lug to lug: 46mm
- Thickness: 12mm
- Strap: double-layered brown calf leather featuring border stitching
- Case back: see-through & screw-down
Conclusion
The has a unique and appealing design that is certainly not for everyone. But if you are looking for a funky, retro-inspired classic and elegant timepiece that stands out from the crowd, you’ll likely love it.
Apart from its appealing retro-inspired design, it also offers exceptional value for money. The finishing is superbly high for its price, and the automatic movement is robust and durable.
All in all, the watch is robust and well-built, and Seiko has done a great job in introducing a design that is new and refreshing in a market where many watches look very similar to each other.
The Seiko Recraft SNKP27 is available to order on Amazon.
