Seiko Sports Cruising SBBP004 Moon Phase - 1992
In the early 1990s, Seiko was not merely using quartz technology to produce more accurate timepieces; the brand was also creating technically ambitious watches that combined a surprising number of functions on a single dial. The SBBP004 is one of the most distinctive examples of this era—an extraordinary Seiko from the "Sports Cruising" series (as named in the Japanese catalog) that brings together a moon phase, pointer date, alarm, and 1/5-second chronograph on a white dial framed by classic Roman numerals.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: As this item ships from within the European Union, you will not be liable for customs duties within the EU.**
The watch's architecture perfectly reflects the bold yet functional Japanese design language of the early 1990s. The two-tone case—combining brushed steel surfaces with gold-tone accents—and the original Seiko bracelet give this highly technical timepiece a surprisingly classic appearance. The Roman numerals and railway-style minute track encircling the white dial reinforce this effect. While the SBBP004 may look like a classic watch at first glance, its true character reveals itself upon closer inspection of the dial.
Inside beats Seiko's 7T36 quartz caliber. A navy blue and gold indicator at the 12 o'clock position tracks the moon phases, while a hand at the 3 o'clock position displays the date. At the 6 o'clock position, there is an alarm that can be set using its own independent hour and minute hands. The chronograph is capable of measuring time with 1/5-second precision for up to 30 minutes. Seiko's catalog from the period also lists the SBBP004 as having a monthly accuracy of ±15 seconds, 10-bar water resistance, and a sapphire crystal. However, what truly makes this particular example special is not merely the functions offered by the 7T36 movement, but the period-correct accessories that accompany the watch and its exceptionally well-preserved condition. On the case back, the 7T36-6A80 reference number and the serial number 260002 remain remarkably crisp and legible. It retains its original two-tone Seiko bracelet and signed clasp, along with its inner box, outer box, Japanese warranty card, and the 7T36 instruction manual.
Among these items, two small tags are particularly significant. One bears the barcode T4976660033190—a number directly linked to the SBBP004 in Seiko’s Japanese catalog from that era. The other clearly displays the text "SEIKO SPORTS Cruising," the model code SBBP004, the chronograph feature, and the recommended retail price of the time:
¥50,000.
Thus, we possess more than just an unused SBBP004; we have a complete set where the model, original price, and catalog identity are all linked through physical artifacts that have remained with the watch for over thirty years.
Final Thoughts
The SBBP004 dial has plenty to offer: a moon phase display, a pointer date, an alarm, and a 1/5-second chronograph. Yet, one of the most delightful details of this example lies outside the dial itself. That small price tag—from when this Seiko sold for ¥50,000 in Japan—still sits inside the box today.
The item shown here was manufactured in 1992.
PROFESSIONALLY FULLY SERVICED.
The movement has been completely disassembled; every component has been cleaned, lubricated, and precision-adjusted to ensure flawless operation. (Requires no maintenance for three years, provided it is not exposed to adverse conditions.)
Product Condition: Tested; all functions are fully operational.
