The Essentials

Brand: Seiko
Model: Alpinist “Red Alpinist”
Reference: SCVF009 (4S15-6000)
Era: Introduced in 1995, Japan Domestic Market
Condition: Very Good Condition
Accessories: Watch Only
Case: Stainless Steel
Case Size: Approximately 37mm
Thickness: Approximately 11mm
Dial: Forest Green with Gold-Tone Applied Markers and Red “Alpinist” Script
Hands: Gold-Tone Cathedral Hands
Movement: Automatic Seiko Calibre 4S15, 25 Jewels
Frequency: 28,800 Vibrations Per Hour
Power Reserve: Approximately 40 Hours
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date
Bezel: Internal Rotating Compass Bezel
Crystal: Sapphlex
Water Resistance: 200 Metres (Original Factory Rating)
Lug Width: 19mm

Collector’s Insight

Long before the SARB017 became a favourite among Seiko enthusiasts, there was the SCVF009. Introduced in 1995 as part of the Red Alpinist series, this was the watch that established the green dial, gold cathedral hands and internal compass bezel combination that many collectors associate with the Alpinist today.

But there’s more to this reference than its familiar appearance. Inside is the Calibre 4S15, a 28,800-vph automatic movement from a rather interesting period of Seiko’s mechanical watchmaking. Add the smaller 37mm case and that distinctive red Alpinist script, and you have something quite special. I’ve always found it interesting how some older Seikos have developed such a strong following over time. The SCVF009 is a good reminder that a watch doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated to have genuine collector appeal.