Seiko SPB397J1

This limited-edition timepiece commemorates 110 years of Seiko wristwatch making expertise and is inspired by Japan’s – and Seiko’s – first ever wristwatch; The Laurel.

The layout of the watch dial is inspired by the 1913 original, which was a classic piece featuring an enamelled dial with a signature ‘red twelve’ marker at 12 o’clock – a design element still seen on many Seiko watches today – but replaced with a gold tone on this new interpretation.

The Arita porcelain dial was created through a method of traditional Japanese craftsmanship formed in the mountainous area of Arita, Japan which began over four centuries ago, when high quality porcelain clay was discovered. Prized for centuries for its unique blue-white colour, creating each individual porcelain watch dial involves great skill and patience through a multi-stage process with several phases of firing.

Seiko watchmakers often draw inspiration from their local history, culture and surroundings – the Presage Craftsmanship Series celebrates the Japanese ‘Takumi’ – timepieces which are individually handcrafted by master artisans combining Seiko’s latest watchmaking techniques with centuries of traditional artistry.

The calf leather strap is sourced from Japan’s LWG-certified tanners. The Leather Working Group (LWG) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to responsibly made, sustainable leather production.

There are just 1,500 pieces of this design available worldwide.

Seiko Presage: Timeless looks, precisely Japanese mechanical timekeeping. Minimalistic watch designs with a distinctly Japanese aesthetic.