Seiko Prospex ‘Arnie’ SNJ031P1 Watch Review
My hands-on review of the Seiko Prospex Arnie Urban Safari SNJ031P1 a long name, but a great watch!
The Seiko SNJ031P1 is a watch I have had my eye on for a few years. I don’t buy or wear quartz watches as much, so I just couldn’t justify the expense even though I wanted one. That was until I rationalized I would use the purchase as research and a product review here on Tech Writer!
As a devoted Seiko watch enthusiast, I could not wait to get the SNJ031P1 on my wrist! This watch is an update to the iconic Seiko H558-5009 “Arnie” watch, famously worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger in several of his 1980s action films. Like most kids of the 1980s, Commando was one of favorite movies ever!
The new SNJ031P1 is a worthy successor, featuring a combination of classic design elements and modern technology that caters to adventurers and watch collectors alike. This association with the legendary actor and the watch’s appearance in iconic films add a certain level of coolness and pop culture significance.
Seiko has moved these models into their Street Series in the Prospex lineup. The Seiko Street Series is a collection of watches that put an urban twist on some of Seiko’s most popular and iconic timepieces (their words, not mine).
They have taken several of their classic watches and refreshed them to be more hip and bold. Some of them are weird looking, but I do love most of them. I also have one of the gray Urban Safari SRPE31K1, and I absolutely love it.
Now, let’s get into the details of the new Arnie! First off, this is one good-looking watch. Even though it clocks in at 47 MM, it absolutely doesn’t feel like that on the wrist. A trick that Seiko has mastered with many of its divers. The watch’s other appeal is, of course, being worn in the movie Commando! Well, not this exact watch, but the combo digi/analog shrouded diver.
With a water resistance of 200 meters, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and excellent legibility, the SRPE31K1 is a great option for divers or people who enjoy adventure sports and need a reliable watch for these activities. This is just an excellent watch for fishing, camping, backpacking, etc.
Design and Build Quality
The Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1 retains the signature chunky, rugged aesthetic of the original “Arnie.” It has a 47.8mm case diameter, making it a bold statement on the wrist. The green resin shroud and stainless steel case construction contribute to its durability and overall rugged look.
I particularly appreciate the comfortable silicone strap, which is flexible and doesn’t cause irritation during long wear. Seiko went with a very nice metal keeper on the strap. The legibility of the watch face is also excellent, thanks to the large, bold hour markers and hands that are generously coated with Seiko’s Lumibrite material for superb low-light visibility. This guy’s lume will last for several hours!
The fit and finish are excellent here. The watch doesn’t have the faults like misaligned bezels that the Seiko automatics sometimes suffer from.
The crowns operate smoothly, the dial is highly visible, and the watch’s movement is super accurate.
Movement and Functions
The Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1 utilizes a solar-powered H851 caliber movement, eliminating the need for battery replacements and ensuring long-lasting reliability. The watch’s power reserve is approximately six months when fully charged, ensuring reliable timekeeping.
The unidirectional rotating bezel with a luminous pip at 12 o’clock is useful for tracking elapsed dive time as a dive watch. While the bezel action is firm and precise, some users might find it hard to grip due to the shroud.
The SRPE31K1 does have some other useful functions, like an alarm, but I haven’t spent any time figuring it out. Just setting the time and date takes some getting used to. I had to go watch a YouTube video to figure it out.
One of the key updates to this model is the digital display, which offers a range of functions such as an alarm, stopwatch, chronograph, and automatic calendar. The pushers to control these functions are easy to access and operate, but some users might find the digital display’s size and contrast challenging to read under certain conditions.
Value for Money
Given its combination of robust build quality, classic design, and functional versatility, the Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1 offers excellent value for money. It’s reasonably priced for a watch in its category, and the solar-powered movement adds to its long-term cost-effectiveness.
These watches’ prices fluctuate, and you need to shop around. I pulled the trigger because it dropped on Amazon to under $350; as I write this, it’s back up close to $500. Also, the different colors are different prices.
5 Reasons Why You Should Add The Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1To Your Collection
Iconic heritage: If you appreciate the historical connection with Arnold Schwarzenegger and its appearances in famous 1980s action films, the SNJ031P1’s iconic heritage could be a strong selling point.
Rugged design: The watch features a bold, robust design with a stainless steel case and green resin shroud. If you prefer a chunky, distinctive look, the SNJ031P1 might be a great fit.
Size: The watch has a 47.8mm case diameter, which is considered large. If you prefer smaller, more discreet timepieces, the SNJ031P1 may not be your best option. However, if you enjoy bold watches that make a statement, it could be a suitable choice.
Versatility and functionality: With its analog-digital display, solar-powered movement, alarm, stopwatch, dual time, backlight, and 200-meter water resistance, the SNJ031P1 offers a variety of practical features. This watch might be an excellent choice if you value functionality and versatility.
Budget: The Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1 offers good value for money, given its features and build quality. If it fits within your budget and meets your requirements, it could be a worthwhile purchase.
Overall, This Is A Pretty Cool Watch!
The Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1’s coolness stems from its iconic heritage, rugged design, versatile functionality, reliable solar-powered movement, excellent legibility, and comfortable wear. These factors make it an attractive option for watch enthusiasts and those seeking a tough, functional, and stylish timepiece.
If you are Seiko fan, then buying one is an easy decision. If you’re just looking for a rugged, good-looking, do it all watch, the Seiko Prospex SNJ031P1 is a compelling choice.
It pays homage to the iconic “Arnie” watch while incorporating modern technology and design elements, making it a versatile timepiece that suits a variety of situations.
Blair Witkowski is an avid watch nut, loves pocket knives and flashlights, and when he is not trying to be a good dad to his nine kids, you will find him running or posting pics on Instagram. Besides writing articles for Tech Writer EDC he is also the founder of Lowcountry Style & Living. In addition to writing, he is focused on improving his client’s websites for his other passion, Search Engine Optimization. His wife Jennifer and he live in coastal South Carolina.