Cover Grand Seiko is the embodiment of master craftsmanship; every stunning dial is meticulously handcrafted
Grand Seiko is the embodiment of master craftsmanship; every stunning dial is meticulously handcrafted
1 / 1
With the changing landscape of the luxury market, Japanese watchmaking proves a force to be reckoned with
Most people are accustomed to Swiss watchmaking which takes pride in its distinct craftsmanship and attention to detail. But for decades now, Japanese watch brands have also infiltrated the same luxury market with much success. At the core of this is their passion for sustainability and heritage, gradually redefining luxury. Karl Emmanuel Dy, president of Grand Seiko and Seiko Philippines, guides us through this paradigm shift and digs deeper into Japanese watchmaking.
Above Karl Emmanuel Dy, president of Grand Seiko Philippines
Karl Emmanuel Dy, president of Grand Seiko Philippines
1 / 1
What is the understated elegance of a timepiece that celebrates the beauty of nature?
Take for example the Grand Seiko SLGH005, known affectionately as “the white birch”. It features a striking new dial that truly embodies the manufacturing excellence of the Grand Seiko team. It features dynamic stamped patterns and intricate colour schemes inspired by one of the most impressive thickets of white birch trees in Japan, which surround the new Grand Seiko Studio in Shizukuishi.
The manufacturing of a Grand Seiko has always been a matter of local pride. It highly values its birthplaces by showing respect for the community’s traditions. In cooperation with the Iwate Prefecture, Seiko Watch Corporation and Morioka Seiko Instruments Inc have agreed to help protect, sustain and nurture the natural environment that surrounds Shizukuishi. This includes Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, which is known for its history of Japanese traditional craftsmanship, clean air and pure water. The agreement helps to ensure the long-term future health of the white birch tree forest on the Hiraniwa Plateau—the largest white birch forest in Japan—renowned for its beauty and environmental significance.
Read more: Tatler Philippines And Grand Seiko Celebrates Time Through An Intimate Virtual Gathering
Above Grand Seiko SLGH005 or "The White Birch"
Grand Seiko SLGH005 or "The White Birch"
1 / 1
Tell us more about the famed takumi craftsmanship of the Japanese.
Over 60 years of Grand Seiko’s incessant pursuit of artistic mastery lives on through its craftsmen—the takumi. Practised and perfected as “the way”, the craftsmen put their hearts and souls, their whole selves to adhere to the consistent quality and high standards of craftsmanship in every detail of Grand Seiko’s watchmaking process.
With uncompromising care and attention to detail at every stage of the manufacturing process, our takumis create timepieces with single-minded dedication and commitment to the highest standards of accuracy and utility and with decades of practice and precision of watchmaking that cannot be achieved by machine alone. The master-apprentice relationship between the takumis goes beyond the mastery of craft. Their lives of pure dedication and unending pursuit of the art of watchmaking perpetually preserve and take part in the Japanese culture, history and heritage.
How important is it for watch brands today to emphasise sustainable practices?
Japan has always had a deep affinity with its natural environment. The country has a long-standing tradition of high appreciation for its beauty, and for the way that this beauty changes with the seasons. Just as nature affects the history and culture of a region, the many and varied landscapes of Japan are a source of inspiration to Grand Seiko, giving individuality to its timepieces.
In every aspect of Grand Seiko watchmaking, respect for nature is an important theme. Grand Seiko has worked with the local authorities to protect, sustain and nurture the strikingly beautiful white birch forests of the Hiraniwa Plateau, in Iwate Prefecture.
With watches of great precision, built to last for generations, Grand Seiko seeks to express and promote the very importance of nature wherein the brand breathes and lives throughout the years. Grand Seiko is proud to show its respect for the natural beauty of the Japanese environment by contributing to the preservation of the pristine beauty of the white birch forests of the Hiraniwa Plateau.
NOW READ
Is the Future Looking Bright for Quartz Watches? Emerson Yao of Lucerne Shares His Insights
What Should You Know About Collecting Vintage Watches? Paolo Martel of Vintage Grail Shares Advice
Watches & Wonders 2022: Meet the Most Complicated Grand Seiko Watch Ever
Credits
Images: Grand Seiko
About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
