Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 – 6S28 Movement Debut

Seiko has an impressive reputation when it comes to automatic chronographs. In fact, they may have even been the 1st to release a self winding chronograph wrist watch back in May of 1969 with the 6139 movement. Today at AZ Fine Time, we are very proud to bring you Seiko’s latest in mechanical chronographs, the limited edition Ananta SSD001.

Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 6S28

The SSD001’s design is inspired by Japanese architecture, using simple straight lines to form the sub-dials for the chronograph. This style display was originally found in the vintage Seiko 5 Speed-Timers, and while this piece does pay some tribute to them, it is a far more modern design.

Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 6S28

The dial itself is hand lacquered by Japanese artist Mr Isshu Tamura, who also did last years Ananta SRQ013 Limited Edition. The lacquer makes the dial jet black and makes everything else on the face “pop” that much more. The hands are a very vibrant red, which makes legibility very easy. The white indices and markings are also very clear and appear as if they are floating over the lacquer from a top view. If you look from the side you can see that they are not, but still a cool visual effect.

Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 6S28

The all black hard coated 43mm case and bracelet are a great combination of brushed and polished finish and compliment the black Maki-E lacquer dial perfectly. The bezel has a “ghost” type tachymeter that is very subdued, but still legible. The best part is that the bezel is indeed a ceramic insert. It’s high gloss is another perfect compliment to the hand lacquered dial.

Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 6S28

The movement is the newly released 6S28 automatic chronograph with column wheel and 50 hour power reserve. You may be familiar with the highly popular 6s37 movement (which is about the same but with power reserve indicator). The 6S37 gained much of it’s popularity after the controversy with the Tag 1887 movement. To sum up the story, Tag introduced the 1887 as an in house movement, which was later revealed to be the same design as Seiko’s 6S37. I believe that Tag bought the blue prints from Seiko, made some of their own decorative changes and do manufacture it in Switzerland. It is also rumored that Tag buys other parts such as hairsprings from Seiko. But enough about Tag…

Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 6S28

The 6S28 is the 1st time a 6S movement has ever become available to the US. While the 6S37 was very popular, it was only available in the Asian market. The 6S28 construction is an impressive layout and slightly thinner compared to other automatic chronographs (even though the case is still 15mm thick). This movement consists of 289 parts and 34 jewels.

Seiko Ananta Limited Edition Chronograph SSD001 6S28

The lume is also spectacular especially considering it looks to be thin. Luckily, Seiko’s Lumibrite is very strong and can emit light 5-8 hours off of 10 minutes under regular inside lighting.