If the cartoon ocean creatures hand-engraved into the movement and the “ocean and sky” dial aren’t enough for you, there is a final tribute to Shonan on the strap. On the back of (at least the white version) the strap are names of landmark locations in the Shonan beach area. Again, the text is in English, which again is another tease as I don’t know if any of these watches actually ever made it outside of Japan. Oh, and if you read the first letter of all the words vertically along strap they spell out “Shinji.” More and more this watch looks like a “thank you” from Seiko to their president.

Seiko provided two straps with the SH Special Model watch. Each of the straps is in crocodile, with one being white and the other being blue. Seiko says the white strap is for summer days while the blue strap is for dark ocean nights. How romantic of them. Actually, on the deep blue strap I bet it looks quite nice. On the white strap the watch could work as a unisex piece.

Shonan beach. Image credit: japantoday.com

Seiko indicated that only their best high-end dealers would have the SH Special Model watches for sale. I have a feeling most of them are sold, but a few of these pieces might pop up here and there for sale on the aftermarket. For Seiko collectors, this is a very interesting and unique model to find. It is also extremely rare given that Seiko only produced 39 pieces. The Seiko SH Special Model limited edition ref. SCQE001 watch is priced at 2,625,000 Japanese yen. (about $26,900). seikowatches.com