Since 2016, the Presage collection has been renowned for showcasing many forms of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship in its creations. Today, the collection introduces two new watches that, for the first time in its history, carry Spring Drive movements. Here is the press release, interspersed with our commentary.
Seiko Presage Spring Drive Enamel
Spring Drive
We have been huge fans of the Spring Drive movements ever since they were introduced in 1977 by Yoshikazu Akahane at Suwa Seikosha. The movement is a unique blend of the old and new, blending the traditional mechanical wheel train with the ultra modern negative feedback electromagnetically controlled glide wheel governed by advanced quartz timing technology. Many of the Spring Drive watches we are enthralled with are finished to a high engineering level (like the Snowflake), while some, in particular those by the Micro Artist Studio (like the Eichi II) feature fabulous top of the range haute horlogerie finishing.
Design: Riki Watanabe
The watch is designed in a simple yet modern design reflecting the philosophy of a pioneer of modern Japanese design, in collaboration with Riki Watanabe. Seiko had previously collaborated in several projects with Watanabe. When he passed away in 2013, Seiko worked with a long-time colleague and friend of Watanabe’s to whom he had entrusted the design direction of his work.
The Presage team worked closely with Riki Watanabe’s erstwhile colleague to create a dial that brings the design philosophy of Watanabe’s to life. This philosophy has at its heart the pursuit of timeless values that provide long-lasting satisfaction and attention to detail that is clear in every aspect of the watches. It is free from excess decoration on both dial and case and allows for a light, modern style that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. The Didoni font, which was greatly favored by Riki Watanabe himself, the dual-curved sapphire case with super-clear coating and the vivid contrast of color between the dial and the hands and numerals all enhance the watches’ legibility while capturing a perfect balance between beauty and clarity.
Enamel dial
The dials are made by master craftsman Mitsuru Yokosawa and his colleagues to ensure that each dial is just the right shape and form for the watch dial.
They come in two colors; white and black, with each requiring a specific glaze application process that can only be achieved by the skill and sense of a master craftsman. Thanks to this special enamel, the dials have a unique sheen and warm, deep and organic beauty.
The movement: Seiko Spring Drive Caliber 5R65
Both of the two new watches incorporate Caliber 5R65 which has an accuracy rate of ±1 second per day and a power reserve of 72 hours.
The movement can be seen through the exhibition case back. Both versions come with a power reserve indicator at the eight o’clock position and date display at three o’clock. The case is in stainless steel to which a super hard coating is applied to ensure its lasting pristine beauty.
The watches are available from October, 2019 in selected Seiko boutiques and selected retail stores around the world.
Seiko Presage Prestige Line Enamel Dial Spring Drive Specifications
Spring Drive Caliber 5R65 (SNR037,SNR039)
Driving System: Automatic
Power reserve: 72 hours
Accuracy: ±1 second per day (±15 seconds per month)
Number of jewels: 30
Specifications
Stainless steel case with super-hard coating
Enamel Dial
Dual-curved sapphire crystal with super-clear coating
See-through screw case back
Diameter: 40.0mm, Thickness: 13.1mm
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Cordovan strap with three-fold clasp with push button release
Approximate recommended retail price in Europe:€4,650
3 Comments
I’m curious about Seiko’s strategy. The price range for these models is now intruding into Grand Seiko territory. I wonder how Seiko will really try to differentiate their ranges…or are we going to see more Grand Seiko watches hitting the US$20,000 level while Presage gets elevated?
The Spring Drive is their premium product, and have always had a price to match.
Per Seiko’s usual modus operandi, the dial is stunning but the movement could use some decoration. Also, a small correction, the Spring Drive was conceived in 1977, not introduced. It was announced in 1997 and commercially available in 1999.