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A Twenty-Year Companion: My Enduring Love Affair with the First-Gen Seiko Black Monster (SKX779)

 As a watch enthusiast who has navigated many decades of horological trends and fads, I've seen countless timepieces come and go. Yet, there are a select few that transcend mere ownership to become true companions, ingrained in the very fabric of my daily life. Among them, none holds a more unique or enduring place than my first-generation Seiko Black Monster, the venerable SKX779. I've had mine for two decades now, and even after all this time, surrounded by more "refined" or expensive watches, it still finds its way onto my wrist with remarkable regularity.



The appeal of the original Monster is immediate and unapologetic. Its aggressive, almost industrial design was a radical departure when it first burst onto the scene, earning it the "Monster" moniker that stuck like glue. The chunky, hooded lugs, the sharply serrated bezel, and that distinctive 42mm case with its integrated crown guard all scream "tool watch" in the most emphatic way possible. It's a design that polarizes some, but for those of us who get it, it's nothing short of brilliant.



Beyond its divisive aesthetics, the SKX779 is, at its heart, an absolute workhorse. Powered by the robust, non-hacking and non-hand-winding 7S26 automatic movement, it's a testament to Seiko's "set it and forget it" reliability. Mine has chugged along faithfully for twenty years with minimal fuss, a true testament to its durable engineering. The unidirectional bezel, with its deeply knurled edge, is a joy to operate, offering a satisfying click that reassures you of its quality.

But what truly cements the Monster's legendary status is its lume. The applied hour markers and massive hands, generously coated in Seiko's proprietary Lumibrite, glow with an intensity that borders on ridiculous. In low light, the Monster transforms into a beacon, a mesmerizing display of illumination that puts many far more expensive watches to shame. It's not just functional; it's a defining characteristic that contributes immensely to its unique charm.

After two decades, my Black Monster bears the marks of a life well-lived – scratches on the crystal, dings on the bezel, and a well-worn bracelet. Yet, every imperfection tells a story, making it even more cherished. It's a watch that never tries to be anything it's not: a supremely capable, incredibly durable, and distinctively styled diver that offers immense value and an unmistakable presence on the wrist. Even with a collection spanning decades and numerous price points, the first-gen Seiko Black Monster remains an undeniable favorite, a watch that continues to earn its place in my rotation, day after day, year after year. It's a true icon, and I wouldn't trade the memories it's witnessed for anything.

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