2015 Seiko "Spirit Smart" Chronograph SCED023 7T12 0BL0 "Ripley" by GIUGIARO

The Seiko x Giugiaro relationship is one of the most notable and distinctive collaborations in the watch world. Since 1983, Guigiaro and his firm Italdesign have been involved in a series of watches that can generally be described as radically rule-breaking. It's testament to Giugiaro's talent that despite some outrageous-seeming design decisions, these watches remain captivating, popular and sought-after decades after their creation.  Both Ripley and Bishop’s pieces have become collector’s items in the vintage watch world and Seiko reissued the pair over the last decade. Their aesthetics were unlike anything before or after, and perfectly exemplified a sort of harsh-futuristic design aesthetic from the 1980s.

This watch is named the “Ripley” as it was worn by this character (played by Sigourney Weaver) in the famous 1968 move Aliens. Directed by James Cameron.  Closely replicating the case of the ’83 original, the watch is of modest proportions though it looks large due to the eccentric housing on the right side. At 40 x 42.25 x 11mm, dimensioned without the housing, it’s a nice medium sized watch, certainly smaller than many modern sport watches. The housing then adds another 3mm in width, and is 36mm long itself. It definitely gives the watch a large appearance, and looks unwieldy, but it wears surprisingly well, and the housing isn’t uncomfortable.  

The dial of the Ripley also stays very true to the original, and is a simple, attractive design. On this surface at 3, 6 and 9 are sub-dials for 24-hr, 60-minute counter and active seconds, respectively.

The case is matte finished all over, and has an interesting grey color. I’m not sure if it’s coated or just bead blasted, but it has a cool, dull tone. Sort of like titanium, perhaps a bit brighter. The Ripley comes mounted to a unique steel bracelet that is close if not identical to that of the original.  It’s a gorgeous bracelet that is as much a part of the overall aesthetic as the case and dial.

This model was produced as a numbered limited edition of 2500 pieces for the Japanese domestic market.

This particular watch comes complete with its original box, instructions and it full length original bracelet. The watch is in unworn condition with the blue caseback sticker still intact, making it suitable for the discerning collector. The battery was changed earlier this year and the watch is full working order.  Values for these will continue to rise well in to the future with prices of the 1980s original hitting $4000!    

Specifications:

10 bar Water resistance

Hardlex Crystal

40 x 42.25mm diameter

7T12 Quartz Movement

Stainless Steel Case,  Anti-magnetic

Weight 108g

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR BUYERS:
1. For shipping purpose: we will mark lower values at the Buyer’s request. We ship with discrete packaging.
2. We use DHL Express for international shipping. Shipping to most destinations is normally 2-3 days.
3. Preferred payment method is via bank transfer/wire.
4. For customers requiring an 'escrow' method, we also accept Paypal. However please note a fee of 4% applies.