The "Rally" sport divers from the late 1960s and 1970s are held in high regard and admired by many Seiko enthusiasts. These iconic timepieces were the result of intense competition between Seiko's Suwa and Daini divisions, leading to the creation of some of the brand's most memorable models. With their vibrant colored dials and checkered bezels, mounted on large and bold cases, the "Rally" models have remained highly sought after by collectors. In recent years, Seiko has drawn inspiration from these iconic models of the golden era of mechanical watches, releasing new versions and faithful reproductions.
 
The re-issued "Rally" models from the late 1990s are particularly noteworthy. At a time when vintage watches were not as popular, Seiko decided to reintroduce a selection of sport divers from the past, providing the world with another opportunity to appreciate these timepieces. Now considered vintage in their own right, the (SBSS) 7S36 Rally divers, much like the original Daini models, were exclusively available in the Japanese domestic market.
 
This particular example from May 1997 is truly remarkable. The silver sunburst dial features applied luminous markers with contrasting black tips. The hour and minute hands are sleek batons with polished edges and a central black stripe. The sweeping seconds hand is sharply tapered and bright red-orange, adding a vibrant touch to the predominantly monochromatic design.
 
The classic "5" badge and bright blue "Sports" label pay homage to the original models, while the framed date window displays both Kanji and English numerals. A polished chapter ring provides a clean transition to the coin edge bezel, which features a flawless black and silver checked insert. The case has slightly more contouring than the original, but retains a nearly identical circular brushed finish. Completing the ensemble is the original rolled split 5-link stainless steel bracelet, featuring an engraved "5 Sports" deployant-style clasp.
 
Ships from Tokyo, Japan