It is undeniable that one of Seiko’s claims to fame was its quartz watch. However, it is not to be mistaken that the Japanese watchmaker only produces quartz timepieces. Founded by Kintaro Hattori in 1881, Seiko produced a great number of technology that caught the attention of watch enthuasiasts such as the Magic Lever system in 1959 that increased winding efficiency, the special SPRON alloy developed in 1964 for its in-house balance springs and the world’s first automatic chronograph with a vertical clutch and column wheel systems in 1969.
The Seiko Presage collection — launched globally in 2016 during its annual press conference at Baselworld — is a testament to its unceasing dedication to the art of horology; a mechanical watch that sits in between its pre-independence premium Grand Seiko and the mid-range Seiko 5. Since its launch, the Japanese watchmaker has been releasing new creations every so often — from classic favourites to limited-edition pieces crafted with parts used in the Grand Seiko studio. What does 2024 hold for the collection? The Seiko Presage Classic Series embodying the DNA of fine Japanese watchmaking.
As an ode to Japanese crafts, the Seiko Presage Classic Series is a manifestation of refined sophistication, remarkable artistry and watchmaking endeavour through the introduction of five new creations. The traditional sense of Japanese beauty is expressed through two different dial configurations.
The delicacy of silk — a natural textile that is widely used in Japanese culture — is brought to life in the classic three-hand dial decorated with an intricate textured pattern and warms colours like Shiro-iro (ecru), Araigaki (pale orange) and Sensaicha (greenish dark brown). Powered by the Calibre 6R55, the elegant-looking timepiece comes with central seconds and date, a reworked 40.2mm case and downward-sloping lugs for better wearability and fit.
Seiko has also introduced an open-heart variant as a fitting counterpart to showcase the complexity of watchmaking. Splashed in Shiro-iro (ecru) and Sumi-iro (ink black), the duo boasts an overlapping 24-hour subdial and Calibre 6R5J movement with a 3-day power reserve. The stunning timepiece is also matched with a newly developed multi-row bracelet inspired by the 1970s.