A deceptively simple design that speaks volumes of the Japanese watch manufacturer’s history
Usually, in the watch community, an important occasion like an anniversary calls for the horological equivalent of a parade—a special edition with all the bells and whistles and then some.
So, this 1,000-piece release by Seiko might come as a surprise to some. For a low-key appearance belies its true intentions, which is to mark the centenary of a landmark event in the company’s history: the introduction of the first wristwatch to bear the “Seiko” name on the dial in 1924.
It was also the first creation to be introduced by the Seiko company after the Seikosha factory was destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923.
Starting with the round case and box-shaped sapphire crystal, this addition to the Presage collection captures the vintage character of the original watch in every detail and herein lies the charm.
The Seiko letters at the 12 o’clock position, for example, recall the distinctive typeface of the era, while the Arabic numerals capture the essence of the original font by incorporating both thick and slender lines.
The dial, on the other hand, was realised by master craftsman Mitsuru Yokosawa and his team, who specialise in enamel production. Hence, its striking white appearance is guaranteed to last for years to come.
This iteration is powered by the new Calibre 6R5H, which features a 24-hour sub-dial at the six o’clock position. Its Arabic numerals are true to those of the small seconds sub-dial that occupied the same position on the original.
The caseback and the large crown carry the trademark “S” that founder Kintaro Hattori registered in 1900 as a symbol of the Seikosha factory. Indeed, a special pin badge with the same trademark “S” is included in the special box that accompanies the watch.
The watch features movable lugs and a pull-through strap, which was common at the time of the original watch’s release, made of sustainable leather. In one final, poignant nod to the occasion, engraved on the caseback is Hattori’s rallying cry that has stood the company in good stead for 100 years and counting: “Always one step ahead of the rest”.
