Seiko Movements List

Complete Table of most common Seiko Movements 

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Total Movements Movement Type Functionality Power Reserve Beats per Hour (BPH) Jewels Notable Uses
1 7S26 Automatic (Entry-level) Day & Date 40 hours 21,600 21 Seiko 5 (Classic), Entry-level Seiko models
2 7S36 Automatic (Entry-level) Day & Date 40 hours 21,600 23 Seiko 5, Affordable Seiko models
3 7S65 Automatic (Entry-level) Day & Date 40 hours 21,600 23 Seiko 5, Low-cost Seiko models
4 4R35 Automatic (Mid-range) Date 41 hours 21,600 24 Seiko 5 Sports, Seiko Presage
5 4R36 Automatic (Mid-range) Day & Date 41 hours 21,600 24 Seiko 5 Sports, Seiko Presage
6 4R37 Automatic (Mid-range) Day & Date 41 hours 21,600 24 Seiko Presage, Seiko 5 Sports
7 4R38 Automatic (Mid-range) No Date 41 hours 21,600 24 Seiko Presage, Seiko 5
8 4R46 Automatic (Mid-range) Day & Date with Special Complication 41 hours 21,600 24 Seiko Presage, Limited editions
9 6R15 Automatic (High-end) Date 50 hours 28,800 23 Seiko SARB, Seiko Presage
10 6R35 Automatic (High-end) Date 70 hours 28,800 24 Seiko Presage, Seiko Alpinist
11 9R15 Spring Drive Date & Power Reserve indicator 72 hours 28,800 30 Grand Seiko, Seiko Spring Drive
12 8L35 Automatic (High-end) Date 50 hours 28,800 26 Seiko Marinemaster, Diving watches
13 8R48 Automatic (High-end) Day & Date 45 hours 28,800 30 Seiko Prospex (SBDC models)
14 9S85 Automatic (High-end) Date & GMT 55 hours 36,000 29 Grand Seiko (GMT models)
15 9R65 Spring Drive Date & Power Reserve indicator 72 hours 28,800 30 Grand Seiko
16 7T32 Quartz (Chronograph) Chronograph 50 hours N/A 7 Seiko chronographs, Seiko Sports
17 V172 Quartz (Chronograph) Chronograph 50 hours N/A 7 Seiko chronographs
18 8F35 Quartz Perpetual Calendar (with automatic timekeeping) N/A N/A 11 Seiko Premier, High-end Seiko models
19 8F56 Quartz Perpetual Calendar N/A N/A 11 Seiko Premier, Advanced Seiko models
20 9F62 Quartz Perpetual Calendar N/A N/A 12 Grand Seiko (Quartz models)
21 4J32 Quartz Date & Time N/A N/A 7 Seiko Quartz
22 6M62 Quartz Time (Advanced Digital Movement) N/A N/A 8 Seiko Digital watches
23 9F85 Quartz Perpetual Calendar with Dual Time Zone N/A N/A 12 Grand Seiko
24 9F87 Quartz Perpetual Calendar with Dual Time Zone N/A N/A 12 Grand Seiko
25 6R20 Automatic (High-end) Date 50 hours 28,800 26 Seiko Presage
26 6S21 Quartz Date & Time N/A N/A 7 Seiko Quartz

Explanation of Seiko Movement Types

  1. 7S Series (7S26, 7S36, etc.):

    • Type: Entry-level automatic movements, providing reliable day/date functionality but without hacking or manual winding.
    • Notable Uses: Found in Seiko 5 and other budget Seiko models.
  2. 4R Series (4R35, 4R36, 4R38, etc.):

    • Type: Mid-range automatic movements that offer hacking and manual winding.
    • Notable Uses: Found in Seiko 5 Sports, Seiko Presage, and Seiko Alpinist.
  3. 6R Series (6R15, 6R35):

    • Type: Higher-end automatic movements offering longer power reserves and better regulation.
    • Notable Uses: Found in Seiko Presage, Seiko SARB, Seiko Alpinist.
  4. 9R Series (9R15, 9R65):

    • Type: Spring Drive movements that combine mechanical and quartz technology for superior accuracy and a smooth sweep of the second hand.
    • Notable Uses: Found in Grand Seiko and high-end Seiko models.
  5. 8R Series (8L35, 8R48):

    • Type: High-end automatic movements often used in diving watches and Seiko Prospex models.
    • Notable Uses: Found in Seiko Prospex, Seiko Marinemaster.
  6. Quartz Movements:

    • V172 and 7T32 are chronograph quartz movements used in Seiko Sports models.
    • 8F35 and 9F62 are perpetual calendar quartz movements used in Seiko Premier and Grand Seiko.
  7. Spring Drive Movements:

    • 9R15, 9F85, and 9F87 are high-precision Spring Drive movements found in Grand Seiko and some premium Seiko models.

Conclusion

Seiko offers a wide range of automatic, quartz, and Spring Drive movements, providing options for every level of watch enthusiast and budget. From the reliable 7S series used in Seiko 5 to the high-precision Spring Drive in Grand Seiko, these movements are known for their durability, precision, and value. Whether you need an affordable automatic for everyday use or a luxury Spring Drive for a premium timepiece, Seiko has a movement for all occasions.

 

When to Choose 4R Movements Instead?

  1. Authenticity for Seiko Watches

    • If you are restoring or modding an authentic Seiko watch (e.g., a Seiko SRPD or Alpinist), a 4R movement ensures:
      • Brand consistency
      • Retention of original value for resale or collecting.
    • Using an NH movement in a Seiko-branded watch could be seen as "inauthentic" by collectors.
  2. Factory Original Parts

    • Seiko watches with 4R movements are sold as original factory products. If you’re building or modding a watch that needs to maintain Seiko’s prestige, a 4R movement might be preferable.
  3. Perceived Brand Quality

    • Some watch enthusiasts prefer the prestige of an in-house Seiko movement (even if it's nearly identical to an NH movement).
    • The "4R" branding signifies originality, which may be important to purists.
  4. Higher Value for Finished Products

    • Watches with 4R movements often have a higher resale value than those using third-party NH movements. This is critical for brands producing watches for collectors or enthusiasts.
  5. Consistency in Branding

    • Using a 4R movement in a Seiko mod ensures the watch remains consistent with the brand's identity.
    • Some Seiko purists and collectors may view NH movements in a Seiko watch as "non-original", even though both movements are made by Seiko Instruments.
  6. Exclusivity

    • The 4R series is exclusively reserved for Seiko-branded watches, whereas NH movements are marketed as third-party movements for general use.
    • This exclusivity gives Seiko’s 4R-powered watches a more premium, in-house appeal compared to NH-powered alternatives.
  7. Collector Preference

    • Watch enthusiasts and collectors value authentic Seiko watches with all original components, including the movement.
    • Using a 4R movement preserves the heritage of the Seiko brand and ensures the watch remains desirable for long-term ownership.

 


Key Differences Between NH/NE and 4R/6R/7S (and all original Seiko) movements

Feature NH/NE 4R/6R/7S (and all original Seiko movements)
Branding Third-party (SII) Seiko in-house
Usage Sold to microbrands/mods Exclusive to Seiko
Availability Widely available Only in Seiko watches
Value Lower resale value Higher resale value
Modding Compatibility Excellent Excellent

 


Conclusion

  • Choose NH Movements if you want a modding-friendly option. They’re ideal for aftermarket builds, custom projects, and watch mods.
  • Choose 4R Movements if you're working on authentic Seiko watches, care about brand originality, or plan to resell the watch to Seiko enthusiasts.

In essence, NH movements are the go-to for most modders due to their identical performance and affordability, while 4R movements shine for authenticity and collector value.

 

 

Seiko NH Movements

The Seiko NH movements are automatic mechanical movements manufactured by Seiko Instruments Inc. (SII) and are part of their third-party movement lineup. These movements are designed for use by other watch brands, microbrands, and hobbyists for watch modding or custom watch builds.

Overview of NH Movements

The NH series is based on Seiko's reliable 7S26 platform, which powered many Seiko 5 and SKX models. The NH movements are improved versions with added functionality such as hacking (stopping the second hand when setting the time) and manual winding.


Key Features of NH Movements

  1. Automatic mechanical movements with rotor-driven winding.
  2. Hacking seconds: The second hand stops when adjusting the time.
  3. Manual winding: Ability to wind the watch manually via the crown.
  4. Durable and low-maintenance: Built for reliability with long service life.
  5. Affordable and accessible: Widely used by third-party brands and modders.
  6. Customizable: Compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket parts (dials, hands, date wheels, etc.).

 

Overview of most popular NH Movements

NH Movement Description Functions Seiko Equivalent
NH23 Basic automatic movement without hacking or manual winding. Day and date 7S26
NH25 Basic automatic movement without hacking, with date only. Date 7S25
NH35 Most widely used automatic movement with hacking and manual winding. Date 4R35
NH36 Similar to NH35, but with both day and date functions. Day and date 4R36
NH34 GMT movement with date and an independently adjustable GMT hand. GMT, date 4R34
NH38 Simplified version without date, with hacking and manual winding. No date 4R38
NH39 Similar to NH35 but includes a power reserve indicator. Date, power reserve No direct match
NH70/NH71/NH72 Skeletonized movements designed for openwork watch designs. No date No direct match

Additional NH Movements

NH Movement Description Functions Seiko Equivalent
NH10 Simple, automatic movement with date. Date 7S10
NH12 Another automatic movement with date, slightly more compact than NH10. Date 7S12
NH35A The same as the NH35, with slightly different internal parts for durability. Date 4R35
NH36A The same as the NH36, offering day and date complication with increased reliability. Day and date 4R36
NH38A No date version of the NH35A. No date 4R38
NH41 A compact version of the NH36, typically used in smaller watches. Day and date 4R41
NH50 A variation offering automatic winding with a slimmer profile. Date 4R50
NH60 Compact GMT movement with day and date functionality. GMT, day, date 4R60
NE57 4R57

Key Features of NH Movements

  1. NH23 and NH25:

    • Simple and classic movements aimed at traditional-looking watches.
    • No hacking or manual winding, similar to the older 7S26 series.
  2. NH34 (GMT):

    • A budget-friendly GMT movement often used by microbrands.
    • Features an independently adjustable GMT hand, making it ideal for travel watches.
  3. NH38:

    • A minimalistic version of the NH35 without a date window, perfect for watches with clean, uncluttered dials.
    • Popular among microbrands and modders aiming for simplicity.
  4. NH39 (Power Reserve):

    • Includes a power reserve indicator, a rare complication in the NH series.
    • Suitable for more advanced or functional watch designs.
  5. NH70/NH71/NH72 (Skeleton):

    • Specifically designed for skeletonized watches, showcasing the movement’s internal components.
    • No date function, focusing on aesthetics and intricate design.

 

Key Features of Additional NH Movements

  1. NH10, NH12:

    • Entry-level movements used in affordable watches.
    • Day/date functionality, similar to the NH23, but generally in a smaller case or slimmer profile.
  2. NH35A, NH36A:

    • An improved version of the NH35 and NH36, offering better reliability and durability.
    • Often used by microbrands seeking a budget-friendly, reliable workhorse movement.
  3. NH38A:

    • A variation of the NH35A, designed for minimalist watches that don’t need a date window.
    • Commonly used in custom designs or projects.
  4. NH41:

    • A smaller movement variant of the NH36, ideal for smaller cases or more compact watches.
    • Common in ladies’ watches or smaller, vintage-inspired designs.
  5. NH50:

    • A slimmer and more compact version of the NH35, designed for thinner watch designs.
    • Sleek profile suited for elegant or dress watches.
  6. NH60:

    • GMT movement with day/date function, similar to the NH34 but designed for more compact cases.
    • Popular for travel and dual-time zone watches.

 


Why Choose the NH Series?

  • Versatility: The NH series offers movements for almost any watch design, from minimalist dials to advanced GMT models or skeleton watches.
  • Reliability: Like the Seiko 4R series, NH movements are renowned for their durability and low maintenance.
  • Availability: NH movements are widely available, making them popular among microbrands and watch modders. However, at Watch Plaza you can get the original Seiko movements, so no need to choose for the NH movements. 

 

 

 

Overview of most popular NE Movements

The NE series of movements by Seiko Instruments Inc. (SII) is a line of mechanical movements that are typically sold to third-party brands or used in microbrand watches. These movements are similar or identical to Seiko’s in-house 6R series movements, but they are marketed and sold under a different name and branding. The NE movements are generally produced for watches that don't carry the Seiko brand.

Here is an overview of the NE movements you may encounter, including their equivalents in Seiko's internal movement lineup:

 

 


Overview of NE Movements and their 6R Series Equivalents

NE Movement Seiko Equivalent Description Functions Power Reserve Beats Per Hour (BPH) Jewels
NE15 6R15 Standard automatic movement with date function. Date, hacking, manual winding 50 hours 28,800 23
NE20 6R20 Similar to the 6R20, found in mid-range Seiko models. Date, day, hacking, manual winding 50 hours 28,800 26
NE35 6R35 Widely used automatic movement with date function. Date, hacking, manual winding 70 hours 28,800 24
NE36 6R36 Similar to 6R36, with both date and day functions. Day & Date, hacking, manual winding 70 hours 28,800 24
NE34 6R34 GMT version with date and adjustable GMT hand. GMT, date, hacking, manual winding 70 hours 28,800 24
NE38 6R38 Simplified version of the NH35 without date complication. No date, hacking, manual winding 41 hours 21,600 24
NE42 6R42 Movement with date and day functions, primarily used in affordable watches. Day & Date, hacking, manual winding 41 hours 21,600 24
NE45 6R45 A variant with similar features to 6R36, but used in different markets. Day & Date, hacking, manual winding 41 hours 21,600 24
NE70 6R35 Skeletonized Skeletonized version of the 6R35 (showing inner workings). No date, skeletonized 41 hours 21,600 24
NE54 6R54 Date, Day, Power Reserve Indicator 72 hours 28,800 29

Key Points:

  1. NE Movements and Their 6R Series Equivalents:

    • The NE series movements are the unbranded versions of Seiko's 6R series movements, designed to be used by third-party brands and microbrands.
    • For example, the NE35 is the unbranded version of the 6R35, and it shares the same functionality and components.
  2. Target Market:

    • The 6R series is generally used in Seiko-branded watches like the Seiko Presage and Seiko Alpinist, whereas the NE series is sold to third-party brands and microbrands for use in affordable watches.
  3. Differences in Calibration:

    • Seiko typically regulates the 6R series movements for better accuracy before using them in their own watches.
    • The NE movements may not be regulated by Seiko, and it is often left to third-party brands to regulate and fine-tune the movement.

Conclusion:

The NE series movements are indeed identical to their 6R series equivalents, and the primary difference lies in the branding. The NE35 is essentially the same as the 6R35, offering the same functionality, power reserve, and reliability, but marketed for use by third-party brands and microbrands.

 

 

Overview of Seiko 7C Movements

 The Seiko 7C series of movements are a line of quartz movements that were widely used in Seiko watches. These movements are known for their reliability and affordability. They are typically used in Seiko's entry-level and mid-range models. Below is an overview of the 7C series movements, including their key features and notable uses.

 

Complete Overview of Seiko 7C Series Movements

Movement Description Functions Power Reserve Beats Per Hour (BPH) Jewels Notable Use
7C17 Analog quartz movement with date function. Time and Date Battery-operated N/A 3 Seiko Quartz watches, Seiko 5
7C21 Analog quartz movement with day and date. Day, Date Battery-operated N/A 3 Seiko Quartz watches, Seiko 5
7C43 Analog quartz movement Time and Date Battery-operated N/A 3 Seiko Quartz, Seiko 5
7C46 Analog quartz movement with day and date. Day, Date Battery-operated N/A 3 Seiko Quartz watches, Seiko 5
7C48 Analog quartz movement with date and 24-hour format Date, 24-hour format Battery-operated N/A 3 Seiko Quartz watches, Seiko 5
7C49 Analog quartz movement with date and 24-hour format Date, 24-hour format, Hacking Battery-operated N/A 3 Seiko Quartz, Seiko 5

Explanation of the Movements:

  1. 7C17:

    • This movement is the basic analog quartz movement with time and date functionality. It's one of the most commonly used quartz movements in Seiko watches.
  2. 7C21:

    • Similar to the 7C17, but it adds a day complication along with the date, offering slightly more functionality while maintaining the same reliability.
  3. 7C43:

    • A basic analog quartz movement similar to 7C17 with time and date functions. It's a more straightforward movement, typically found in entry-level Seiko models.
  4. 7C46:

    • This movement offers day and date complications, similar to the 7C21, but with a different design in terms of internal components and finishing.
  5. 7C48:

    • This model is an analog quartz movement with a date complication and a 24-hour format. This offers more versatility, allowing the watch to display time using the 24-hour clock.
  6. 7C49:

    • Similar to the 7C48, but with an additional hacking feature, which means the second hand stops when setting the time, allowing for more precise time setting.

Key Features of the 7C Series Movements:

  • Quartz Technology: The 7C series movements are powered by batteries, offering accuracy and low-maintenance timekeeping compared to mechanical movements.
  • Time and Date Functionality: Most of the 7C series movements are equipped with time and date functions, with day and 24-hour format features available on some models.
  • Hacking Function: Some models like the 7C49 have a hacking feature, allowing the user to stop the second hand when setting the time for precise synchronization.
  • Affordability: The 7C series is a reliable and cost-effective solution for Seiko quartz watches, often found in their entry-level and mid-range offerings.

Conclusion:

The Seiko 7C series provides affordable, reliable quartz movements with a variety of functions, from basic time and date to more advanced day/date or 24-hour format complications. These movements are commonly used in Seiko 5 and Seiko Quartz watches, providing precision and durability with low-maintenance care.