Seiko celebrates 140 years of Japanese watchmaking history with the release of two limited edition expressions. The Prospex and Presage anniversary collections epitomise the classic and contemporary faces of Seiko, drawing direct inspiration from the changing face of Tokyo’s Ginza district, which Seiko calls home.
Featuring dials that echo Ginza’s traditional cobblestone streets, the Prospex and Presage are further enhanced by blue-grey tones that evoke the city’s contemporary architecture.
Both creations provide an excellent opportunity for watch enthusiasts to celebrate Seiko’s anniversary and represent the prestigious brand. Well, those enthusiasts who get in quick, as these watches won’t be available forever.
Seiko Presage Limited Edition: SSA445
The alluring Komparu hue leaps to the stunning Seiko Presage collection. The 1964 Seiko Crown Chronograph inspires this discerning timepiece with its boxed shape glass, sharp hands and faceted indexes—all inherited from the Crown Chronograph for a retro look and feel that matches perfectly with the classic dial pattern. The Crown Chronograph was also used as the official timekeeper for the Tokyo 1964 Summer Olympics, so the Seiko Presage is a sporty tribute to boot.
An aperture at 9 o’clock allows the wearer to enjoy the craftsmanship of the movement beneath. Views of the beating heart are complemented by a 24-hour sub-dial directly above, adding further functionality to the wristwatch.
This beauty possesses a 41-hour power reserve and compensates with water resistance to an incredible depth of 500 metres. The internal complexities can also be admired through the transparent caseback. The retro-inspired Seiko Presage is another limited edition, with only 4,000 expressions available worldwide.
Movement: Calibre 4R39
Power reserve: 41 hours
Material: Stainless steel
Diameter: 40.8mm
Thickness: 12.8mm
Water resistance: 5 bar
Bracelet: Stainless steel
Price: $895
Seiko Prospex 1959 Alpinist Re-interpretation: SPB259
Those with a sharp eye will recognise Seiko Prospex as a modern interpretation of the 1959 Alpinist watch, designed to meet the needs of recreational climbers and sporting enthusiasts.
The Prospex dial incorporates two sunray patterns that change depending on the viewing angle. Tributes to Ginza extend to the seconds hand, which appears in Komparu—a traditional Japanese colour named after Komparu Street—the once center of Ginza’s nightlife. Komparu was first used by geisha in the 1860s and has since risen in popularity.
Prospex is powered by Seiko’s Calibre 6R35 movement, which delivers a power reserve of 70 hours. You can admire the inner workings through the transparent caseback. The face is protected by elegant, curved sapphire crystal, which is renowned for its scratch resistance. The watch is also water-resistant to a depth of 200 metres. The Seiko Prospex 1959 Alpinist Re-interpretation is available now in a limited quantity of 3,500 expressions.
Movement: Calibre 6R35
Power reserve: 70 hours
Material: Stainless steel
Diameter: 38mm
Thickness: 12.9mm
Water resistance: 20 bar
Bracelet: Stainless steel
Price: $1,150
In central Tokyo, the famed Ginza district is where Seiko founder Kintaro Hattori opened his first repair shop in 1881. Even today, the district remains the home of the legendary Japanese brand.
For more than 120 years, a Seiko clock has watched over Ginza, keeping Tokyo time for locals and commuters alike. The clock looks down on Ginza’s most famous crossroads, and the Seiko Museum and Prospex boutique are located nearby.
Now, you’re invited to represent Ginza by sporting a Seiko Prospex or Presage. These head-turning timepieces won’t be available for long, but there’s still time to possess your very own tribute to this famous Tokyo district and look exceptionally good while doing it.
Available now at select Seiko retail partners, Seiko Boutiques, or online.
