JLC Geophysic True Second vs. Seiko Presage SPB069

remarque · 2017-12-13T17:15:23Z

Remarque compares JLC True Second Geophysic blue dial vs. Seiko Presage SPB069 'Moonlit Night.' Explore aesthetics, value, and market strategies in this steel watch showdown.

remarque

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

12 replies1832 views6 photos

In chapter 1, we looked at the VC Historique Triple Calendar vs JLC MUT Perpetual Calendar, both in steel, as basically the same price point ($20K). And I was surprised that the respondents were split 50/50 in which they preferred. Today, we examine: 1) The JLC True Second Geophysic with modified bl

Today, we examine:

1) The JLC True Second Geophysic with modified blue dial, with calf brown leather strap on deployant. Steel with brushed and polished case parts, 39.6mm case, 11.7mm thick, Cal 770 movement with deadbeat seconds @ 4 Hz/40 hour power reserve automatic and metallic sunburst blue dial, with white date at 3, applied indices and newly added interrupted white (thick!) crosshairs with the original straight sword hands with aged lume. At $9900 and limited to 100 pieces and initially only available via the JLC website, one can view this piece in many ways. But I think it is an experiment to see if subtle changes to the original True Second time and date only model in steel will garnish more love, appeal and desire, because it seems to me that the first version from two years ago has been commercially unsuccesful. I cannot speak to the success of the True Second UT model, but it is revealing that the TrueSecond UT Tourbillon, also limited to 100 pieces, has been completely absent from the watchworld since its unveiling at SIHH2017, so also has been at bit of a bust for JLC.

vs.

2) The Seiko Presage SPB069 "Moonlit Night" in indigo inky blue enamel dial, lacquered white Roman numerals, also white date at 3, 40.5mm steel case also with brushed and polished parts, 12.4mm thick, Cal 6R15 @ 3Hz, 50 hour power reserve automatic, matte midnight blue crocodile leather strap on deployant, limited to 1500 pieces and available at "elite" Seiko partners and soon via Seiko boutiques. It also has white lacquered hands and moon embellishment as a second hand counterbalance. At $1100, it is 1/9 th the price of the JLC. Whereas some may view the design model of Grand Seiko as staid, Seiko has found a larger audience with its "Cocktail Time" series of watches, have now put them under the Presage line, and has been expanding the color and dial pattern choices, despite splitting the line into two tiers, one with the 6R movement and one with the series 4 movement, also 3Hz but with less power reserve and less torque to the movement, as I understand it. I assume that the great success of the limited edition chronograph black and white watches, with lacquered and enameled dials respectively, have paved the way for this blue enamel dial. Unlike the prior dauphine hands, this model has classic spade and leaf hour and minute hands also in white lacquer.

So yes, we are at vastly different price points, and one can argue about the intrinsic movement qualities but... I believe both of watches are all about the aesthetics, since JLC is looking for a way to increase the appeal of its deadbeat movement and stay within the new Geophysic design line. A few days ago, I received an email from my friendly JLC boutique agent, telling me that her boutique is getting 10 (yes ten!) of the blue True Second watches, of which 8 have been spoken for... she wanted to know if I wanted to reserve one of the two unspoken for watches. This is most fascinating, because clearly 10% of the stock, supposedly only available online, are going to her one boutique. Now I don't know if the 8 already spoken for were purchased online and requested delivery through this one boutique, but the fact that two are going to her boutique unsold makes one believe that JLC has not been able to sell the 100 online, so already are farming them out to their boutiques for on-hands buyers. Holy cow! Deduce what you will...

For me, the Seiko Moonlit Night is the winner here in looks, let alone price, and is much more desirable. The lacquered white spade hands with Roman numerals is so much more romantic, elegant and refined. So much so, that Grand Seiko should take notes from this watch in moving forward with the recently splintered off GS "brand", as I love this design. What do you think?

About the Seiko Seiko Presage Ref. SPB069

The Seiko Presage SPB069 is a limited edition model within the Presage line, distinguished by its blue enamel dial. This reference was part of a series that showcased traditional Japanese craftsmanship, specifically the art of enamel work, applied to watch dials. It represents Seiko's commitment to offering timepieces that combine mechanical watchmaking with artisanal finishes, positioned as a dress-oriented option within the broader Presage collection.

The watch features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 40.5mm. It is powered by the automatic Seiko Caliber 6R15, which provides a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal on the front, offering scratch resistance and clarity for viewing the distinctive blue enamel dial. The movement is visible through a display case back.

This reference appeals to collectors interested in mechanical watches with unique dial treatments and those seeking a dress watch with a distinct aesthetic. The blue enamel dial, a key feature, is produced by master craftsman Mitsuru Yokozawa and his team. As a limited edition, it holds particular interest for collectors focused on specific, artisanal releases from Seiko.

Specifications

Caliber: 6R15

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 40.5mm

Dial: Blue enamel

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

The Discussion

ThomasM

Dec 13, 2017

A simpler, more classic, and for me, more timeless, design overall. Just personal subjective gut check reaction. But appreciate your other "analytical" points, good food for thought! Cheers, TM

Mitch K

Dec 13, 2017

justified by the quality of the JLC piece. Cheers

Watchonthewrist

Dec 13, 2017

But for me it will be the Seiko ( i order one at the boutique ) at that price point with a dail like that 👌🏻. Maybe the finishing isnt as nice as the JLC . Still i cant wait to strap the watch on my wrist 🙏🏻

zabreg1 Mr White

Dec 13, 2017

After much deliberation, that is. I really like the dead beat seconds, but the enamel dial is a deal breaker (or maker, in this case). I am truly amazed Seiko can offer such a dial at that price point.

jml_watches

Dec 14, 2017

Hi Of the two probably the Seiko - as if I were to get the JLC I prefer the original dial. Though very different watches. Cheers JML

amanico

Dec 14, 2017

Still, the movement is excellent, very pleasant to the eye, well made, and interesting. The case has some character and charm, too. The dial of the original is austere, serious, well made, but the date associated to the Geophysic name created some passionate discussions. In Blue, the watch is less austere, has more " cool impact ", but the date and the thick crosshairs are not everybody's taste. The Seiko IF it has a genuine enamel dial, at that price point, is a killer, mostly for the enamel di

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Horological Meandering forum with 12 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

JLC Geophysic True Second vs. Seiko Presage SPB069

About the Seiko Seiko Presage Ref. SPB069

Specifications

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum