Seiko’s Alpinist GMT SPB493J: A Limited-Edition Nod to the Hornbill
Seiko introduces the Alpinist GMT SPB493J, a 500-piece limited edition with a hornbill-inspired dial, black bezel, and 6R54 movement.
![Seiko’s Alpinist GMT SPB493J: A Limited-Edition Nod to the Hornbill](/content/images/size/w1200/2025/02/Seiko-Alpinist-GMT-Asia-dialCU-2.jpg)
Seiko expands its Alpinist GMT collection with the SPB493J, a 500-piece limited edition inspired by the tropical hornbill. While it retains the 39.5mm case and 6R54 movement from previous models, this version stands out with a deep black dial, gold-tone accents, and a green rotating inner bezel. The textured dial mimics the woven patterns of hornbill feathers, adding an organic, three-dimensional depth to the design.
![](https://gearandgrit.com/content/images/2025/02/Seiko-Alpinist-GMT-Asia-reclining-2.jpg)
Notably, this is the first Alpinist GMT to feature a black bezel, hinting at future design evolutions in the series. The watch launches on February 13th, exclusively in Asia, making availability a challenge for international collectors.
![](https://gearandgrit.com/content/images/2025/02/Seiko-Alpinist-GMT-Asia-dialCU-2-1.jpg)
Specifications:
- Case: 39.5mm stainless steel
- Movement: Seiko 6R54 automatic, 72-hour power reserve
- GMT Function: Caller-style 24-hour hand
- Bezel: Fixed black bezel, green rotating inner compass bezel
- Dial: Black with woven-texture inspired by hornbill feathers
- Lume: Gold-toned hands and markers
- Bracelet: Stainless steel
- Edition: Limited to 500 pieces (Asia-exclusive)
- Availability: February 13, 2024