Introducing: The King Seiko Vanac SLA093 And SLA095 On Leather Straps
Earlier this year, Seiko unveiled new King Seiko Vanac models. The legendary Vanac name dates back to the 1970s, when it represented the creative and extravagant side of the King Seiko line. The modern Vanac models show significant influence from the ’70s classics. Although they are nowhere near as flashy, they have similar, angular cases and tone down the dials without rejecting their roots. King Seiko now releases two new dial variants with the SLA093 and SLA095. The two models also introduce a new aesthetic with leather straps. Let’s find out more!
I took a deep dive into the world of King Seiko for a series of Buying Guide articles. Each article in the series covered five models from a particular brand within a single decade. When choosing the best King Seiko and Grand Seiko watches from the 1970s, I had the pleasure of learning more about the Vanac series. As I explained in the article, the King Seiko Vanac comprised a select number of models produced between 1972 and 1974, featuring extravagant designs with faceted crystals and wild dials. Overall, my favorite is the Vanac 5626-7140 with its wild multifaceted crystal and stunning dials.
The details of the Seiko Vanac SLA093 and SLA095
As mentioned, when King Seiko introduced the new series earlier this year, we saw a toned-down aesthetic, which makes sense. The wildly original design from the 1970s seems too extravagant to appeal to a wide audience today. However, the new models’ case design draws inspiration from the original Vanac line. The two models Seiko presents today are variations of the models introduced in March. They have new dial colors and come on leather straps. This shift changes the watches’ aesthetic, making them proper 1970s-inspired daily wearers.
Now, let’s go over the details to find out more. The two models feature the same faceted case as the previous releases. They share a 41mm diameter, a 14.3mm thickness, and a 45.1mm lug-to-lug. The case is paired with either a new brown dial (SLA093) or a dark green one (SLA095).
Like the inaugural models, both dials feature the same teak-deck pattern with gold details, a raised ring with luminous indexes, and a framed date window. The inspiration for both dials comes from the rich, deep colors of the lush forests in the heart of Tokyo, such as the Meiji Jingu Forest.
The in-house Seiko 8L45
If you turn the watches around, you will see the Seiko 8L45 movement. Essentially, this in-house automatic caliber is a less elaborately decorated version of Grand Seiko’s 9S55. It operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a 72-hour power reserve while maintaining an accuracy of +10/-5 seconds per day.
As mentioned, Seiko decided to equip these new models with leather straps. It changes up the look nicely and gives them a proper, classy ’70s vibe. The dark colors of the dials match the straps nicely and give them a nice warmth.
The green-dial version comes with a black leather strap, while the brown-dial version features a brown one. Both straps have a smartly designed folding clasp that neatly tucks the strap tail inside, ensuring a light and comfortable fit.
Final thoughts on the new King Seiko Vanac SLA093 and SLA095
Overall, these new Vanac models are my favorites of all the available options. The new dials are closest to the blue-dial SLA085, which was my favorite of the first series. On the new leather straps, the watches get a nice injection of ’70s style that truly speaks to me.
It will most definitely draw in like-minded people who love this aesthetic more than the Vanac on a bracelet. The Seiko Vanac SLA093 and SLA095 will be available starting January 1st, 2026, for €3,300 each. That will save you €100 compared to the models that come on the bracelet, but I think it ups the ’70s charm in all the right ways. Let me know if you agree in the comments section below!
