Seiko 5 Sports Mooneyes: A Bold Tribute to Custom Car Culture

The Seiko 5 Sports Mooneyes pays tribute to Dean Moon, a key figure in the custom car and hot rod scene. Known for modifying and racing cars at dry lakes like El Mirage and the Bonneville Salt Flats, Moon inspired others to enhance their vehicles for both speed and style. This growing demand led him to establish MOONEYES, a brand that became a major name in hot rodding. After his passing in 1987, MOONEYES faded but was later revived by his friend and former dealer in Japan, Shige Suganuma. Now recognized in both American and Japanese automotive culture, MOONEYES makes an ideal partner for Seiko, which introduced the SRPL39 as part of the Seiko 5 Sports lineup.

Seiko 5 Sports Mooneyes

As part of the SKX Series, the SRPL39 maintains the familiar specifications: a 42.5mm stainless steel case, 13.4mm thickness, and a 46mm lug-to-lug measurement, making it comfortable on the wrist despite its size. The brushed case is paired with a Hardlex crystal, and the crown sits at 4 o’clock. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters. The most noticeable change is the bezel, which features MOONEYES’ black-and-yellow color scheme. Made from transparent acrylic, the bezel has a geometric 60-minute scale printed on the underside, giving it a distinctive look.

The dial stands out with a brushed yellow background decorated with a subtle MOONEYES logo pattern. The hands and markers, inspired by 1970s designs, include thin Lumibrite inserts for visibility. The day-date display at 3 o’clock is framed in black for contrast.

Inside, the watch runs on the reliable caliber 4R36 movement, operating at 3Hz with a 41-hour power reserve. A yellow glass caseback, featuring the MOONEYES logo, provides a view of the movement. The watch comes with a three-link brushed steel bracelet, plus an extra black-and-yellow striped nylon strap with the MOONEYES logo.

The Seiko 5 Sports MOONEYES SRPL39 is limited to 1,500 pieces and will be available in May for €450. More details can be found on Seiko’s website.

Strap Recommendations For The Seiko 5 Sports Mooneyes

The Tricolor Yellow Epsom Leather Watch Strap is a bold choice that pairs effortlessly with the Seiko 5 Sports Mooneyes. The Epsom leather is known for its durability and scratch resistance, ensuring a long-lasting, structured look. Its vibrant yellow hue enhances the watch’s dial, reinforcing the MOONEYES signature color scheme while making the brushed yellow background stand out even more. The contrast of yellow against the watch’s black bezel creates a striking visual balance. This strap is perfect for casual outings, automotive events, or any setting where you want to showcase a sporty and eye-catching style. It pairs well with denim jackets, black or white shirts, and racing-inspired outfits, making it a great option for those who appreciate automotive culture.

• Tricolor Yellow Epsom Leather Watch Strap $99.00

The Black Pueblo Badalassi Carlo Leather Watch Strap brings a rugged and refined appeal to the Seiko 5 Sports Mooneyes. Made from Italian vegetable-tanned leather, it develops a rich patina over time, adding character with each wear. The deep black color complements the watch’s bold bezel, providing a sharp contrast to the bright yellow dial without overpowering it. This strap enhances the watch’s versatility, making it well-suited for both casual and semi-formal occasions. It pairs effortlessly with monochrome outfits, leather jackets, and dark denim, making it a great fit for evening gatherings or a more understated, stylish approach to automotive-inspired fashion.

• Black Pueblo Badalassi Carlo Leather Watch Strap $89.00