Seiko has introduced two new limited-edition 5 Sports SKX watches created in partnership with FTC, the well-known San Francisco skateboarding brand. The new models, the Seiko HDB011J8 and Seiko HDB012J8, are scheduled to launch in July 2026 and will be sold only in Japan and the United States.
The collaboration marks FTC’s 40th anniversary. Founded in 1986 by Kent Uyehara, FTC began as a skate-focused venture operating out of his father’s ski and sports shop on Bush Street in San Francisco. Over the years, the brand, whose name stands for “For The City,” has become a respected part of skate culture. This new Seiko release brings that streetwear and skateboarding heritage into the world of mechanical watches.
Both new watches are based on Seiko’s popular 5 Sports SKX-style platform, a design known for its sporty case shape, practical automatic movement, and everyday durability. While the two models share the same core specifications, each one has a distinct personality.
The Seiko HDB011J8 features a black dial paired with a two-tone stainless steel case and bracelet in silver and gold tones. It gives the watch a classic sport-watch feel with a slightly dressier edge. The Seiko HDB012J8 takes a bolder approach, using a burnt orange dial matched with an all-gold-tone stainless steel case and bracelet. This version has a warmer, more eye-catching look that stands out immediately.
In terms of size, both limited-edition Seiko 5 Sports FTC watches measure 42.5 mm across, 13.4 mm thick, and 46 mm from lug to lug. These dimensions place them firmly in modern sports-watch territory while remaining wearable for many wrist sizes.
Powering both models is Seiko’s 4R36 automatic movement. This calibre offers manual winding, a 41-hour power reserve, and 24 jewels. It is a familiar and reliable movement used across many Seiko 5 Sports models, making it a practical choice for daily wear.
The watches also come with a Hardlex crystal, LumiBrite on the hands and hour markers for improved visibility in low light, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and 10 bar water resistance. Around the back, each model includes a screw-down transparent case back engraved with FTC branding, highlighting the special nature of the collaboration.
Production will be very limited. The Seiko HDB011J8 will be made in a total of 860 pieces worldwide, with 310 allocated for Japan. The Seiko HDB012J8 will be even more restricted, with only 663 pieces produced globally and just 113 set aside for Japan.
Seiko has not announced official pricing yet. More details are expected closer to the July 2026 release date. Given the combination of Seiko’s 5 Sports popularity, the SKX-inspired design, FTC’s skateboarding legacy, and the small production numbers, these anniversary collaboration watches are likely to attract strong interest from collectors and fans of limited-edition Seiko watches.
