Since its introduction in 2016, Presage has melded Japanese artistry with Seiko’s longstanding mastery of mechanical watchmaking. Several Presage timepieces have showcased these artisanal crafts through dials made with enamel, urushi lacquer, Shippo enamel, and Arita porcelain.
Today, the Presage Classic Series, known for designs that draw from the colours, materials, and textures of traditional Japanese craftwork, welcomes a new creation distinguished by the refined beauty of its unglazed Arita porcelain dial.
A New Aspect Of Arita Porcelain Dial Making
Unglazed porcelain, introduced for the first time in Presage, is a comparatively new technique within the four-century-old tradition of Arita porcelain. The new technique allows for a wider range of expression and exceptionally refined designs. Typically, Arita porcelain is glazed, imparting it with a smooth and glossy finish. However, when left unglazed, the porcelain exhibits a matte texture, giving it a warm, white hue and a soft and distinct impression. This technique enhances the delicate ridges characteristic of Arita porcelain ware and allows for intricate, three-dimensional dial patterns to stand out more prominently.
For the new creation, a textured rhombus pattern adorns the area around the indexes. Historically, this pattern has been considered an auspicious motif symbolising the prosperity of descendants and good health and has been widely used in Arita porcelain ware. The gold-coloured indexes and hands stand out beautifully against the matte white dial, creating a striking contrast.
The production of each watch dial consists of a multi-stage process that requires precisely controlled moulding and firing procedures and involves great skill and patience. To give the dials the strength required for a watch, the artisans use a type of Arita porcelain specially formulated to be more than four times harder and more durable than traditional porcelain. A very precise casting mould is used to achieve the difficult task of giving each dial the meticulous pattern required for this wristwatch. Under the supervision of Arita porcelain master craftsman Hiroyuki Hashiguchi, the dials are created by Toshiaki Kawaguchi and his colleagues at a manufacturing firm in Arita that has been making porcelain since 1830. Kawaguchi acquired his expertise in the intricate process through Hashiguchi’s guidance.
The use of Arita porcelain watch dials is one facet of Seiko’s commitment to preserving horological culture and technical skills for future generations, keeping in mind Goal 9 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations: “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation.”
This limited-edition watch is powered by Calibre 6R51, one of the newest additions to the mechanical 6R series. The wearer can view the movement’s gold-coloured oscillating weight through the sapphire crystal case back.
The watch will be available as a limited edition of 1,200 at Seiko Boutiques and select retail partners worldwide from July 2025.
