Cover The King Seiko SJE121J1 leads the way for Seiko's 145th anniversary limited-edition watches (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
The King Seiko SJE121J1 leads the way for Seiko's 145th anniversary limited-edition watches (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Seiko
Prospex, King, Presage and Astron—new anniversary watches join Seiko’s acclaimed collections
In 1881, 21-year-old Kintaro Hattori founded a small clock shop in Ginza to import, sell and repair timepieces. He was already an accomplished apprentice, having studied under the tutelage of senior watchmakers around the city. About a decade later, in 1892, he established his own factory, Seiko-sha, or the “House of Exquisite and Precision Manufacturing.” 145 years later, this lofty dream has borne some of the world’s most magnificent timepieces. And, in celebration of this milestone, Seiko unveils four anniversary watches across its renowned catalogues.
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King Seiko
Above King Seiko SJE121J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
King Seiko SJE121J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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What better place to begin than with the king? The KS1969 line draws its design language from the eminent 45KCM, and the anniversary edition SJE121J1 carries itself with the same regal presence. The dial features a detailed embossed pattern, similar to Hattori’s early engravings on his imported watches. This, paired with the deep, grey gradient creates a remarkable sense of depth alongside its intricate design. The caseback, meanwhile, features a shield that harkens back to the King Seiko emblem of the Sixties. Behind this is the slim Calibre 6L35, with a power reserve of 45 hours.
Prospex
Above Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph SRQ059J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph SRQ059J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Whereas the SJE121J1 impresses with dignity and poise, the Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph SRQ059J1 excites with a decidedly busy face. It bears a similar pattern to Hattori’s early pocket watch engravings, gold-coloured accents and a refreshing white dial. Nevertheless, it manages exceptional readability and legibility. It and its three subdials are powered by the Calibre 8R48, which endows it with a 45-hour power reserve.
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Presage
Above Seiko Presage SPB538J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko Presage SPB538J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Even at a glance, one can tell that the Seiko Presage SPB538J1 conveys a certain old-world sophistication, what with its brown, pull-through leather strap, intricate bezel and Roman numerals. This is by design, as it is inspired by the very first watch Seiko released: the Timekeeper. And, much like the pocket watch, this iteration boasts a smooth, white enamel dial, which contributes to the overall vintage feel.
Astron
Above Seiko Astron GPS Dual-Time Chronograph SSH186J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko Astron GPS Dual-Time Chronograph SSH186J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Straight from the past and into the distant future, the Seiko Astron GPS Dual-Time Chronograph SSH186J1’s gold accents are not an accessory, but its defining characteristic. This is seen across the bezel, appliqués, crown and along the bracelet. The case is also made from titanium, which has recently seen a resurgence among the world’s Manufactures. Inside beats the Calibre 5X83, a (expectedly) solar-powered movement with GPS connectivity.
Nearly a century and a half since Hattori founded his shop in Ginza, Seiko continues to find new ways to innovate while maintaining glimpses of its humble origins. These 145th anniversary pieces convey that very spirit in a way that the brand always has—with precision, depth and care.
Discover the Seiko 145th Anniversary watches at select Seiko Boutiques and authorised retailers worldwide. Visit seikowatches.com to learn more.
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About
Tobias wants to write things that make people think, laugh, and reflect. He’s especially proud when he can sneak in a cheeky pop-culture reference or a pun in his titles and articles.
He possesses a deep love of history, resulting from years of books, games, and museum visits. It was this fascination with the human endeavour that fostered his love of writing, spanning genres, tones, and moods. He one day hopes to write a novel—he just hasn't decided on a genre yet. A certified homebody, you'll often find him on the computer he built himself, binge-watching Seinfeld or House, playing his favourite gacha game, or reading a book.
Work
Tobias is a features writer that specialises in branded content. Reach out to him at tobias.tomas@tatlerasia.com.
