Seiko doesn’t hide the fact that it favours the craftsmanship of its home country of Japan. It’s not hard to see why when you consider the incredible porcelain work that comes out of the Kyushu region. The artisans there have been working in porcelain since the 17th century, and over those years they have gone from creating copies of Chinese porcelain designs to creating their own, distinctive style and manufacturing process—Arita. Seiko has featured Arita porcelain designs in its watches before, and for 2022, they’re bringing it back for the Presage Craftsmanship series.
Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref.SPB293J1 | Image: Seiko
The Arita Porcelain dial for the Seiko’s Presage Sharp Edged Series Welcomes Four GMT Models are featured in the SPB293J1 and the SPB319J1. Each comes with a 40.5mm wide stainless steel case that has a design that fits in smartly with the Presage family. The lugs feature a slight twist to add nuance, and the inner surfaces are polished to create a handsome contrast with the brushed top sides. At 3 o’clock the crown features a gentle flare for a more regal appearance. The watch measures 12.4mm in thickness and the Presage versions offer 100 metres of water resistance.
According to Seiko, the new timepiece collection was created under the supervision of Arita porcelain craftsman, Hiroyuki Hashiguchi. Knowing that the dials would go into watches, the master created a porcelain that is four times stronger than normal porcelain. As a result, the artisan behind the fabled Speedtimer and King Seiko has been able to create a slim yet dimensional dial by challenging the limits of traditional Arita porcelain casting moulding processes.
Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref.SPB319J1 (left) and Ref.SPB293J1 (right) | Image: Seiko
The unique quality of the porcelain surface finished with glaze gives the dial a glossy lustre and soft shade. It measures over a millimetre thick and is subjected to a multi-step process of casting, glazing, and firing before it achieves its final looks. Roman numerals in deep blue adorn the dial and blued leaf hands track the time.
The SPB293J1 comes in classic bone white, while the SPB319J1 goes through the ruri zome process to give it a powder blue color. Both watches feature Seiko’s 6R31 automatic movement and a 70-hour power reserve. You also get your choice of strap options, choosing from the classic three-link oyster style bracelet in stainless steel or the glossy black leather strap with blue contrast stitching. Adding one of these porcelain beauties to your wardrobe will cost you $1,700.
Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref.SPB293J1 | Image: Seiko
Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref.SPB319J1 | Image: Seiko
