Jerry Mai

August 20, 2024

A Timeless Tribute: The Mazda Miata 10th Anniversary Seiko Watch Set

In the world of automotive collectibles, it’s not just about the cars themselves. Sometimes, the most cherished items are the ones that come with a unique story or a personal connection to the vehicle. The Mazda Miata, a car celebrated for its pure driving pleasure, took this idea to heart when it released the 10th Anniversary Edition in 1999. But while the car itself was a gem, not many people know that the special Seiko watch set that accompanied it has become a collector’s item in its own right.

To celebrate a decade of the Miata’s success, Mazda pulled out all the stops. The 10th Anniversary Edition Miata wasn’t just about a fresh coat of Sapphire Blue Mica paint or the introduction of a 6-speed manual transmission—it was about creating an experience. Part of that experience was the inclusion of a pair of Seiko watches, designed to be as timeless as the car itself.

The Seiko watch set, offered exclusively to owners of the 10th Anniversary Edition, was more than just a promotional item. It was a carefully crafted piece of memorabilia that symbolized the bond between the car and its owner. Each set included two watches, one for the driver and one for the passenger, neatly packaged in a presentation box. The watches were designed with the same attention to detail that Mazda put into the car. They featured a sleek, minimalist design with a blue and silver color scheme that echoed the Miata’s unique exterior.

But what made these watches truly special was the personalization. Each watch was engraved with a serial number matching the corresponding Miata, making every set unique. This small detail turned what could have been a simple marketing gimmick into something deeply personal. For many owners, these watches are more than just accessories—they’re a tangible connection to their beloved Miata, a reminder of the joy the car brings every time they check the time.

As the years have passed, the 10th Anniversary Miata has become a sought-after collector’s item, and so have the Seiko watches that came with it. While the car itself was produced in limited numbers—just 7,500 units worldwide—the watch sets are even rarer, as not all of them have survived the passage of time. Today, finding a complete set in good condition can be as exciting for collectors as discovering a well-preserved Miata.

In the end, the 10th Anniversary Seiko watch set is a perfect example of how Mazda understood its customers. It wasn’t just about selling a car; it was about creating a lasting bond between the car, its owner, and the memories they’d create together. For those lucky enough to own one of these sets, it’s more than just a watch—it’s a piece of Miata history, ticking away with every second.