Since the beginning of Seiko in 1881, the company has continued to innovate in line with founder Kintaro Hattori’s philosophy to be “Always one step ahead of the rest.” In 1924, the company introduced the first wristwatch with “Seiko” on the dial, signifying the beginning of the Seiko brand. 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of this landmark event. The celebration of this milestone starts with a new creation from the Presage collection that pays homage to the centenary.
The original watch from 1924 was the first creation to be introduced by the Seiko company after the Seikosha factory was destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923. The new creation captures the vintage character of the original watch in every detail. The Seiko letters at the 12 o’clock position take the wearer back in time by recalling the distinctive typeface of that era, and the Arabic numerals, whose font pays homage to the original, incorporating both thick and slender lines to create a bold and dynamic font.
Set against the pristine white enamel dial, the retro-styled blue hands capture the vintage feel of the original. Just as with the 1924 original, the new watch features an enamel dial whose depth and beauty are made possible thanks to master craftsman Mitsuru Yokosawa and his colleagues, who specialize in enamel production.
Thanks to the time-honored enamel dial-making, a striking white appearance will endure for years to come. The creation is powered by the new Caliber 6R5H, which features a 24-hour sub-dial at the six o’clock position. Its Arabic numerals are designed faithfully to those of the small seconds sub-dial that occupied the same position on the original.
The case back and the large crown carry the trademark “S” that Kintaro registered in 1900 as a symbol of the Seikosha factory. Despite the destruction of his company by the Great Kanto Earthquake, he persevered and managed to launch the 1924 wristwatch the following year. On the new creation’s caseback, just above the trademark, appear his name and the quote that so aptly captured his philosophy for the company.
The watch features movable lugs and a pull-through leather strap, which was common at the time of the original watch’s release. They have been crafted to ensure the comfort and durability necessary today. A special pin badge with the same trademark “S” is included in the special box that accompanies the watch.
