This Seiko is a rare representative of the watch with rectangular dial and slanted roman numerals. It is not an imitation of a Cartier tank watch but a descendent of that noble ancestor with some good ideas of its own. The gently barrel-shaped case is about 10% longer than it is wide. The minute hand therefore reaches naturally into the numerals something that is problematic when the aspect ratio is more extreme. The dial is uncluttered, just 12 numerals and three hands, no minute divisions. A central hand instead of subsidiary dial shows the seconds. The face is really pleasurable to look at, like masterful typography. The legibility is good except in dim, diffuse light when the hands do not stand out in sufficient contrast against the dial. It's not an issue with me but if it were, I would consider the black dial version as an alternative. I do not care very much for the strap. It is cut from calf leather, which is great, but I dislike the fake alligator texture. Not a big deal. The lug width is a standard 20 mm and when the time comes to replace the strap there will be plenty of my favorite flat black ones to choose from.

Inside the stainless steel case is a quartz movement that is accurate to + or - 15 seconds per month, according to Seiko's specifications and doing even a little better according to my observations. A solar cell behind the dial keeps the permanent battery charged. No trips to the watchmaker necessary, no danger of marring the case by incompetent battery replacement. Despite its elegant appearance I expect this watch to cope with the little daily assaults in stride. It is water resistant to 50 meters and the Hardlex crystal will not scratch too easily. I think this is a distinctive watch and I like it very much.