In the illustrious history of Seiko, innovation has been the guiding force since its inception in 1881. Founder Kintaro Hattori’s visionary philosophy, “Always one step ahead of the rest,” laid the foundation for a century of horological excellence. As we approach the centenary milestone in 2024, the Seiko Presage Centennial emerges as a remarkable creation within the collection, paying homage to the iconic 1924 wristwatch that bore the Seiko name for the first time.
This commemorative timepiece faithfully captures the vintage charm of its predecessor. The Seiko letters of the Presage Centennial, positioned at 12 o’clock, transport users back in time, embracing the distinctive typography of the era. The dial’s Arabic numerals, an homage to the original, mix thick and narrow lines flawlessly, creating a font that is both bold and lively.
Craftsmanship takes center stage with an enamel dial, mirroring the depth and beauty of the 1924 original. Renowned master craftsman Mitsuru Yokosawa and his colleagues, specialists in enamel production, ensure the enduring, striking white appearance—a testament to the time-honored artistry of enamel dial-making.
Driving this homage to perfection is the new Caliber 6R5H, featuring a 24-hour sub-dial at the six o’clock position. The Arabic numerals on this sub-dial faithfully recreate the design of the small seconds sub-dial from the original Seiko Presage Centennial, connecting the past and present with seamless elegance.
The trademark “S,” a symbol registered by Kintaro in 1900 for the Seikosha manufacture, is proudly displayed on the case back and huge crown. Despite the hurdles created by the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, Kintaro’s indomitable spirit prevailed, resulting in the 1924 wristwatch being introduced the following year. Kintaro’s name and a poignant remark appear above the trademark on the case back of the new product, encapsulating his steadfast philosophy for the company.
Marrying tradition with contemporary comfort, the Seiko Presage Centennial watch features movable lugs and a pull-through leather strap—common in the era of the original’s release. Crafted with meticulous attention, these elements ensure both the comfort and durability required in today’s horological landscape.
The Seiko Presage Centennial is a bridge between a storied past and an exciting future. As we celebrate 100 years of Seiko, this masterpiece stands as a testament to the brand’s enduring commitment to innovation and the timeless allure of exceptional craftsmanship.
The Seiko Presage Centennial watch, a limited edition of 1,000, will be available from January 2024 at Seiko Boutiques and select retail partners worldwide, with a recommended retail price in Europe of €2,000, inviting enthusiasts to own a piece of this historic celebration.
