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Model review / Automatic winding

Seiko Captain Willard: the screen original and its return

The asymmetric Seiko from Captain Willard's wrist returned as the SLA033J1. The reissue has an automatic 8L35, sapphire crystal and 200 m water resistance. We examine what remains of the screen 6105 and what changed.

Published 1 October 2026Announced 21 March 20193 min read
Prospex 1970 Diver’s Re-creation SLA033J1
Photo: © Seiko Watch Corporation. SLA033 reissue, rather than a screen-used watch · Image source

The essentials first

In one minute

Case45 mm
CalibreSeiko 8L35
Power reserveAbout 50 hours

Why it is interesting

Willard is recognisable from its silhouette alone. The SLA033 retains that asymmetry and adds a modern 8L35 inside. Its film connection is a pleasant way to begin exploring an unusual Seiko.

Things to consider

Try the 45 mm size before buying. The vintage 6105 and SLA033 differ in construction and water resistance; each example's condition needs separate checking. The 2019 price is not a current offer.

Watches on Screen / Screen model

Apocalypse Now · 1979

Apocalypse Now

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Seiko · Prospex 1970 Diver’s Re-creation SLA033J1

The model in detail

Martin Sheen wears a Seiko 6105 as Captain Willard in Apocalypse Now, hence the “Captain Willard” nickname. Hodinkee connects the screen watch to the 6105-8110/8119 family. Our photograph shows the later SLA033J1 reissue, giving that same asymmetric silhouette new mechanics.

The manufacturer’s photograph shows the SLA033 reissue—a modern model, not the vintage Seiko 6105 from the film.Enlarge

The manufacturer’s photograph shows the SLA033 reissue—a modern model, not the vintage Seiko 6105 from the film.

© Seiko Watch Corporation · Source

Seiko introduced the reissue on 21 March 2019, limited to 2 500 pieces. A case extension protects the crown at 4 o'clock. The SLA033J1 has a steel case measuring 45 mm across, 13 mm thick and 49.7 mm lug-to-lug, with sapphire crystal and a silicone strap.

SLA033 at an angle: crystal, ridged bezel and winding crown.Enlarge

SLA033 at an angle: crystal, ridged bezel and winding crown.

© Seiko Watch Corporation · Source

The automatic 8L35 runs at 4 Hz and delivers about 50 hours of power reserve. Manual winding, seconds hacking and a date are provided. The manufacturer states 200 m water resistance. These specifications belong to the reissue; they cannot be transferred to vintage 6105 watches.

At its launch on 21 March 2019, Seiko quoted a European recommended price of €4 350. Buying an example today requires a separate search. The SLA033 has its own appeal: the recognisable 6105 form is paired with technical updates absent from the film watch.

Part of these reading routes

Watches in films ↗

Sources

Seiko — official SLA033 reissue announcement and European pricewww.seikowatches.com · 21 March 2019Seiko — current SLA033J1 specificationswww.seikowatches.comHodinkee — Seiko 6105 on Captain Willard's wristwww.hodinkee.com · 21 March 2019