Cover The third wave of Seiko's 145th anniversary watches prominently feature "Edo purple" (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
The third wave of Seiko's 145th anniversary watches prominently feature "Edo purple" (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Seiko
The third series of Seiko’s limited-edition 145th anniversary watches makes use of what the brand calls “Edo purple”
Seiko shows no signs of slowing down its 145th anniversary celebrations, which bodes well for enthusiasts of the maison. Over the past year, the brand has already introduced several new entries, including the King Seiko SJE121 with its smoky, grey dial and the Seiko Presage SPB538, with its old-world charm and leather strap. That list has now grown to include six limited-edition watches, each offering a distinct expression of what it calls “Edo purple”, which already sets it apart from the more understated colours recently used.
While Seiko’s founder, Kintaro Hattori, opened his first watch shop in Tokyo’s Ginza district in 1881, the metropolis’ roots are far older. During the Edo period of Japan, the traditional colour known as “Edo purple” emerged. It is with this hue that Seiko has chosen to honour its rich heritage and legacy.
In case you missed it: Seiko celebrates 145 years with limited-edition anniversary pieces across its catalogue
Prospex
Above Seiko Alpinist Mechanical HBC006J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Above Seiko Speedtimer Solar Chronograph HBJ005 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko Alpinist Mechanical HBC006J1 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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The Prospex collection sticks out for receiving two new members. The first is the Seiko Alpinist Mechanical HBC006J1, with its classic cathedral-style hands and sturdy build. It has followed in the footsteps of its recent releases, with the Alpinist wordmark now located right underneath the 12 o’clock. The distinctive purple is present both prominently on the dial and much more subtly through stitching on the leather strap. Its more vintage appeal makes it equally at home at evening nights out or for everyday wear.
The second is the Seiko Speedtimer Solar Chronograph HBJ005, which draws inspiration from previous models of the Sixties and Seventies. Along the tachymetre scale are purple accents, retaining its functionality while keeping in theme with the rest of the collection.
Astron
Above Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph HAB001 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph HAB001 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Limited to just 2,000 pieces, the Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph HAB001 captures the shifting hues of Tokyo’s night sky with its purple, horizontally patterned dial. It also offers remarkable accuracy, automatically adjusting to the local time zone wherever it is taken using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. Because it's an Astron, the dial is quite busy, making it sensible to pair with a much cleaner, simpler ensemble.
Presage
Above Seiko Presage Cocktail Time HCB006 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time HCB006 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Taking on a more elegant approach, the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time HCB006 takes its design cues from mixology. It is inspired by “Edo Murasaki”, an original cocktail by Hisashi Kishi, the first bartender to receive Japan’s prestigious Contemporary Master Craftsman award. The dial has a distinct translucent appearance, with subtle gold highlights that mimic the drink of its namesake. The perfect place to wear this is the same setting it is inspired by: a secluded speakeasy during after-hours.
See more: Watches inspired by ‘Project Hail Mary,’ ‘Resident Evil’ and ‘The Little Prince’
Seiko 5 Sports
Above Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Based on one of the brand’s most iconic watch designs, the Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003 features a rich, deep purple gradient complemented by gold accents. Of course, it remains a perfectly robust and capable watch, with water resistance of up to 100 metres, a glossy Hardlex bezel and 4,800 A/m magnetic resistance. Altogether, it strikes the right balance between sporty functionality and elegance.
A revival of a digital classic from the Eighties
Above Seiko Selection HFL001 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
Seiko Selection HFL001 (Photo: courtesy of Seiko)
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Seiko’s beloved digital watches are given their share of affection. The Selection HFL001 is based on a vintage Eighties design of a model affectionately known as the “Rotocall.” First and foremost a tool watch, it retains the original model’s rotary switch, alarm clock functions, a timer and more. The select few that value raw function over form are sure to enjoy its analog appearance and dependability. The symbolic purple and gold colours make a return, proudly distinguishing itself as a member of this anniversary collection.
This latest anniversary release is a welcome addition, and one that continues Seiko's trend toward referencing its city of origin. All eyes will be on what the fourth batch may be, but for now, they will be squarely on this deep shade of Edo purple.
Visit seikowatches.com/global-en/special/145years to view the full collection.
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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.
