Some anniversaries are marked with nostalgia. Others become an opportunity to revisit a legacy. Seiko celebrates 145 years since Kintaro Hattori opened his watch shop in Tokyo’s Ginza district in 188, with both.
The new King Seiko VANAC Limited Edition revisits one of the brand’s most daring designs from the 1970s, reinterpreting it through a contemporary lens while paying tribute to one of Seiko’s most recognisable design signatures: Seiko Blue.
The release arrives as part of the brand’s anniversary celebrations. Seiko honors more than a century of innovation that has: introduce Japan’s first wristwatch, its first chronograph, its first diver’s watch and the world’s first quartz wristwatch. Among those milestones, the distinctive Seiko Blue emerged during the 1960s as a visual expression of the company’s pioneering spirit.
Heritage Is Front And Centre
Rather than relying on vintage aesthetics alone, Seiko has chosen to reinterpret the original model’s bold personality. The silver-white dial is framed by a vivid blue ring embedded into its surface. This creates a striking contrast that immediately draws the eye. Matching blue hands and Lumibrite filled hour markers continue the colour story, giving the watch a clean, contemporary appearance while maintaining excellent legibility.
The design also carries subtle nods to the collection’s identity. A horizontal stripe pattern adds texture across the dial, while both the 12 o’clock index and the seconds hand counterweight form a distinctive “V” silhouette– a reference to the VANAC name.
The architecture of the watch is equally considered. Inspired by Tokyo’s seemingly endless skyline. The stainless steel case balances sharp angular lines with an elegant bezel-less construction that softens its overall profile. Paired with a bracelet featuring alternating brushed and mirror polished links, the watch delivers a look that is both sporty and refined.
The Mechanics
Turning the watch over reveals another historical reference. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the Caliber 8L45 automatic movement features refined wave-pattern finishing across its bridges and oscillating weight. The case back itself is decorated with a blue shield emblem inspired by the original King Seiko logo from the 1960s.
Powering the timepiece is Seiko’s flagship Caliber 8L45 automatic movement. Built for modern mechanical sports watches. It offers approximately 72 hours of power reserve, operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, and delivers an accuracy rating of +10 to -5 seconds per day. Designed with durability as much as precision in mind, the movement reflects Seiko’s continued focus on practical performance alongside traditional craftsmanship.
Anniversary Special
Limited to just 800 pieces worldwide; the anniversary edition carries an exclusivity that matches its commemorative significance. Measuring 41mm in diameter with a 10 bar water resistance, it blends everyday wearability with collector appeal.
Alongside the launch, Seiko is also strengthening its presence in Malaysia with a new branded retail display at Cortina Watch, Fahrenheit88 Kuala Lumpur. The dedicated space offers collectors and enthusiasts a more immersive way to experience the brand’s latest collections while reinforcing Seiko’s commitment to expanding its premium retail experience locally.
Available from July 2026, the King Seiko VANAC Limited Edition (HKF004) is priced at RM13,900 and will be offered through Seiko Boutiques and selected retail partners worldwide.
For a brand celebrating 145 years of watchmaking, the latest VANAC is a reminder that some of Seiko’s boldest ideas– from its unmistakable blue accents to its unconventional design language– continue to evolve without losing sight of where they began.
