Seiko SPB399J1

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 Owari Shippo enamel dial was created through a form of traditional Japanese craftsmanship named after Buddhism’s seven treasures with unique translucent qualities which differentiate it from porcelain enamelling. In the 1830s former Samurai Kaji Tsunekichi, after studying international cloisonné, began producing Owari Shippo which became popular across the world.

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 800 pieces of this design available worldwide.

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