Seiko Celebrates 100 Years Of Making Wristwatches

In 1913, Kintaro Hattori launched what would be Japan’s first wristwatch, the Laurel.  For 2013, their 100 year anniversary, we are already starting to see new models in Seiko Japan’s press releases.  So far, here is what we have seen…

On Jan. 31st, Seiko announced the release of a new limited edition with the 9F Quartz movement.  Not only does this piece commemorate the 100th anniversary of Seiko’s 1st wristwatch, it also commemorates the 20 year anniversary of the 9F Quartz.  The SBGX103 is a new, very special, limited edition of only 2,000 pieces.

The SBGX103 has a specially selected Quartz crystal, and all 2,000 pieces have the even higher accuracy rating of only +/- 5 seconds a year deviation (as compared to +/- 10 sec a year as with standard 9F).  Some of the other attributes include an 18kt yellow gold Grand Seiko lion medallion on the case back along with engraved serial number “XXXX/2,000” and “Caliber 9F 20th Anniversary Since 1993”.  The dial itself is also quite unique.  It is embossed with a pattern to resemble “XX” (Roman numerals for 20) and small subtle GS lions throughout.  At the 20 minute index, you may notice that the lion is backwards compared to the rest.  This is also to signify the 20 year anniversary.  The final icing on the cake is the gold star above the 6 o’clock to indicate its special accuracy rating.  You may also notice this is not the typical oyster type bracelet you will generally see on the SBGX series.  This model will have the zaratsu polished attributes you will find on other GS.

On February 5th, Seiko announced some exciting new editions to their wildly popular Astron GPS series.  The series itself is incredible, being the 1st analog solar watch to actually pin point your location, and update the hands automatically to whatever timezone you are standing in, all at the push of a button.

The new Astron pieces will be the same size shape and case design as the original, with some new twists.  There will be 3 introductions in titanium, which will be Seiko’s proprietary High-Intensity Titanium along with a ceramic center links and a ceramic bezel (as the other models have), but this time they engraved the city codes into the bezel.  These new variations will also have the engraved/collapsed case side as the 2012 limited edition SAST001.  While they are not limited edition, I am sure they will be in high demand.  There is also a stainless steel bracelet variation in the works.  The piece pictured is the new SAST015, with black ceramic and red accents.

As you may know, Basel World is around the corner and AZ Fine Time will be there.  To see all the great new introductions hands on, be sure to follow our blog.  Our meeting with Seiko is on the 1st day of the fair, April 25th, which we will be posting all the new goods!

 

Thanks for reading!

 

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