Explanation and Origin of the "Sea Wave Logo" on SEIKO Diver's caseback

In March 2004 I received a nice email from a fellow watch collector with the explanation of the origins of SEIKO's "Sea Wave Logo" including some nice pictures.

Here is the mail:

Mr. Castellazzi,

I could have just posted this info, but I wanted to be sure you got it.  It
is a graphic, explaining the logic of the 'wave' logos on the back of water
resistant Seiko watches.  In one of your reviews (P1) you stated: "We are
still not sure, what exactly the motive depicts, but it sure is decorative.
Looks like a big wave. The same picture can be found on the outer end of the
rubber strap."

You probably know now what I am going to explain, but it is indeed a
graphical representation of a wave, specifically the famous wave depicted in
Mr. Katsushika Hokusai's painting 'The Great Wave of Kanagawa'.  More
detailed versions represent higher WR ratings.  I have included copies of
the original painting, an example case back, and the Seiko explanation
sheet.

I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website.  And I really enjoyed the post
where you explained a little about your history, and interest in watch
making.  It seems you have technical training; I am an engineer myself, with
a new interest in mechanical watches. Take care.

Sincerely,
-Brett
 

And here is the famous picture of Hokusai-san "The Great Wave of Kanagawa":


Picture is public domain

And it's application on the casebacks of SEIKO's Diver's:


My former SKX421K on the beach of Hua Hin, click here to see the whole series of pictures, pictures K. Lamsam

Also the SEIKO water chart uses the "Great Wave of Kanagawa":


Picture from SEIKO Watch Corporation, Japan

Hope you found this explanation as useful as I did! Remember, credits go fully to Brett B., USA, he sent me all the pictures and the information, thank you Brett from all of us watch nuts!

Best regards

Reto Castellazzi, Bangkok, April 19th 2004