Seiko & Citizen Watch Forum Message Archive

I thought this would be a good information topic to help explain how (The Seiko Divers Watch) deals with the release and escapement of He-gas.

Since I have seen a few members and new members ask: If Seiko has an He escape valve? Some have said no they dont think so? Some have said yes they think so? ~ The answer to all 3 of those questions is Yes!

The "Seiko Divers watch grouping" from vintage on up to full blown High-end modern divers watches, have-not had nor do they now use an He gas escape valve so to say.

(On the other hand): Seiko employs it's own so called "He gas escape valve", while not by the use of a actual tubular valve, it uses it's very own patented & unique

He gas escapement system by the developement and use of the (L-Flanged crystal gasket).

~ This unique gasket that serves a tri-purpose of providing the crystal a shock-absorbtion bed and more importantly sealing surface area to keep the outside elements from entering the case and movement, and also serves as the "He-gas escapement system"., by allowing the outward seal preventing water entry and allowing the inner flange to also allow (He gas) to escape around the crystal and out of the watch when the (He gas) reaches a + pressure over the outside pressure, thus allowing the escape of the inner accumulated He gas and also preventing the entry of H2O at the same time!

IMHO it's Just the best "He gas escapement system" ever developed from what I know of the various other valve systems with-in the divers watch industry, with-out some of the problems that the other systems have., such as having to unscrew the he escapement crown while submerged to allow the release of the gas, as well as a few other issues.

~The Seiko L-Flanged crystal gasket is pure high-technology & science at its best!..Who would have thought!

I need to make this clear: Not all Seiko Divers watches have the capability to deal with the accumulation of He gases, and Im not 100% positive if all Seikos divers watches have the L-flanged crystal gasket.

~So to be safe, the ones that do will say He system or similar symbols on the rear case-cover or back of the case. Usually the watches that employ this capability are from the (Prospex) Divers line and are usually 300m and up in water-resistance, although a few 200M models have employed the capability!

Thanks & hope this short informational study was of help to who ever reads this thread. To the Professionals out there, if i've missed anything please feel free to add what you may.

Jim