Have you ever thought about why a popular watch might be taken off the market?

 

There are several reasons a watch could be discontinued, even if it has a loyal following or is highly esteemed. Similar to phones, cars, or fashion items, watches are subject to market trends and the choices made by manufacturers.

 

One significant reason for discontinuation is poor sales. Some models, despite an initial buzz, fail to attract enough interest from consumers. When this occurs, low sales and the potential for financial losses often prompt companies to stop producing that specific model.

 

Seiko Monster SKX779/781

The Seiko Monster is a classic that has been discontinued but continues to attract a dedicated group of collectors. When it debuted in the early 2000s, its striking and unique design caught the attention of many—people either adored it or simply didn’t get it.

 

The orange SKX781 quickly emerged as a favorite, while the black SKX779 developed its own devoted following.

 

The in-house 7S26 automatic movement was revolutionary when it first came out, but it now feels somewhat outdated, missing both hacking and hand-winding capabilities.

 

However, the lume remains exceptional and can easily stand up to the best in the market.

 

What really distinguishes the Seiko Monster is its bold and unmistakable design. The bezel is a highlight, featuring a look that’s entirely its own—perhaps the Tuna comes close, but nothing else in Seiko’s collection matches it.

 

The dial is just as iconic, having gone through several redesigns over the years while maintaining its unique character. With a diameter of 42mm and a lug-to-lug span of 48mm, the Monster fits comfortably and pairs well with various straps, despite its chunky and robust appearance. The included metal bracelet is equally distinctive, perfectly enhancing the watch’s rugged charm.

 

Seiko SKX007/009/011

The Seiko SKX watches are characterized by a 42.5mm x 46mm case, short lugs, and a crown located at the 4 o’clock position, all powered by the dependable 7S26 movement. Renowned for their durability, many of these timepieces continue to function well with their original components.

 

Designed for daily wear, the SKX line features a bezel that rotates in half-minute increments and the well-known Seiko Lumibrite dial markers, which shine brightly even in dim conditions.

 

With so much value in one watch, it’s easy to see why the SKX gained a loyal following. Alongside the popular SKX007 and SKX009 models, there were other variants like the SKX011, which boasted a striking orange dial.

 

Sadly, the SKX series was discontinued in 2019, with the Seiko 5 Sports series taking its place.

 

SARB 033/035

The black SARB033 and white SARB035 gained immense popularity while they were in production, but they have since been discontinued. Commonly known as the "Baby Grand Seiko," these models were hard to come by even when they were still available, and their scarcity has only heightened their value over the years.

 

The SARB033/35 is a versatile watch that can easily adapt to nearly any occasion. With its 38mm case, it provides great comfort and wearability for a variety of settings. Its simple yet elegant design often invites comparisons to Grand Seiko, although the finishing details don’t quite reach the standard of Seiko's higher-end models.

 

Equipped with Seiko’s dependable 6R15 automatic movement, the SARB033/35 showcases case finishing that recalls classic Grand Seiko aesthetics, complemented by a bracelet that reflects those timeless elements.

 

While the SARB033/35 series was once considered a fantastic value, similar to the SKX series, they no longer present the same affordability now that they have been discontinued—despite their lasting charm and attractive appearance!

 

Seiko Alpinist SARB017

The Seiko Alpinist SARB017 is regarded as one of the most beloved affordable Seiko watches ever produced. This contemporary version of the Seiko Alpinist is a timeless, sporty watch featuring a striking green dial and unique design elements that distinguish it from other models. Its blend of style and practicality has made it a favorite among watch aficionados.

 

The Alpinist, part of Seiko’s SARB series, boasts a 38mm stainless steel case that sits comfortably on nearly any wrist. It features a distinctive second crown at 4 o’clock, which operates a rotating internal bezel, enhancing both its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

 

While the Alpinist SARB017 was phased out a few years back, it has been replaced by a new model that many collectors have come to admire. The refreshed Alpinist series also introduces new color options, so if the traditional gold and green don’t catch your eye, there are plenty of other color combinations available.

 

Seiko Sumo SBDC001/003/031/033

Launched in 2007, the Seiko Sumo stands out as one of the brand's more recent diving watch designs. The first generation features the black SBDC001, the blue SBDC003 (affectionately known as the ‘Blumo’), and the SBDC005, which showcases a striking orange dial and comes with a rubber strap.

 

The Seiko Sumo has achieved significant popularity, developing a dedicated fan base over the years. However, it may not appeal to everyone—its 44mm size and substantial 180g weight on the steel bracelet make it a notable watch that’s ideally suited for those who prefer larger, more eye-catching timepieces.

 

While the Seiko Sumo may not slide easily under most shirt cuffs, it stands out as a highly versatile watch capable of tackling nearly any situation outside the office. As an ISO-rated 200m diver, it’s designed for deep-water adventures, even if most users never dive to those depths.

 

One of the best aspects of the Sumo is that Seiko consistently releases updated versions, making the watch both affordable and easy to find. The newest models come equipped with high-quality features such as ceramic bezels and sapphire glass, ensuring they are durable and perform at a premium level.