When it comes to top-quality dive watches that won’t necessarily break the bank, there are not many brands that can go head-to-head with Seiko.
The Japanese watchmaker has been making some of the best dive watches on the market for decades now, and the collection that seems to be going from strength to strength is Seiko PADI.
But what is Seiko PADI, really? How does it differ from other Seiko dive watches? Is it worth the extra dollar?
If you’ve been considered by the cryptically-named collection and want to know more, then read on. We break down everything you need to know about Seiko PADI watches below.
What Is Seiko PADI?
To have a clear understanding of what’s so special about the PADI collection by Seiko, demystifying the abbreviation is the best way to start.
What does PADI stand for?
PADI stands for Professional Association of Diving Instructors.
Founded in 1966, PADI is the world’s largest diver training organization, with over 6,000 dive centers and resorts worldwide.
In other words, PADI is THE authority when it comes to diving education.
PADI & Seiko
So, what does Padi mean on Seiko?
PADI and Seiko have been in partnership since 2016, with the aim of creating a range of dive watches that embody the PADI philosophy of “Explore, Learn and Protect”.
The result is a series of beautiful, high-quality watches that are designed for both recreational and professional divers.
In contrast to some other dive watches by Seiko, all PADI models are tested to ISO 6425 standards, meaning they are fit for use in professional diving environments. The certification is oftentimes overlooked by people when looking for their next dive watch when in reality it’s a key differentiator.
All Seiko PADI models bear the “PADI” logo and the brand’s colors, meaning you can expect many PADI models to come with the so-called “Pepsi bezel”.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we have demystified what Seiko PADI is, it’s time to tackle some of the frequently asked questions regarding the range.
How much do Seiko PADI watches cost?
Prices for Seiko PADI watches start at around $300 and go up to $1,000+. That said, there are a few special edition models that cost a bit more.
Do Seiko PADI watches come with a warranty?
All Seiko PADI watches come with a 3-year warranty.
Is Seiko PADI a good watch?
Absolutely. As far as Seiko dive watches are concerned, there are not many that can match the quality and features on offer from PADI models.
In fact, Seiko’s Padi watches are some of the best value divers on the market in general.
Does Seiko PADI have a battery?
The vast majority of PADI-stamped models are automatic, thus they are powered by a mainspring and don’t require a battery.
The only models in the range that do have batteries are solar-powered.
How do I set my Seiko PADI watch?
Setting a PADI model isn’t any different from other dive models. Refer to this Youtube video for the complete guide.
Which is better – Seiko or Citizen?
When it comes to dive watches, both Seiko and Citizen offer great quality at an affordable price point. However, Seiko’s PADI models are perhaps a step above in terms of features and build quality. So, if you’re looking for the best possible value for your money, then Seiko PADI is the way to go.
