Seiko Grand Seiko and Ananta Baselworld 2009

219 · 2009-04-14T14:04:27Z

Explore Seiko's 2009 Baselworld highlights: the esteemed Grand Seiko and new Ananta line. Discover in-house movements, Japanese craftsmanship, and luxury steel designs.

219

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

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219's Baselworld 2009 report highlights Seiko's standout presence, challenging perceptions of the brand beyond its quartz era legacy. The article champions Seiko's commitment to in-house mechanical movements, design, and technology, particularly focusing on the esteemed Grand Seiko line and the then-new Ananta collection.

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May be it’s the effect of getting older, been to one too many watch fairs, and am now a little punch drunk, but so many brands leave me jaundiced with their offerings. I still hear my old house master telling me: ‘you could do better.’ Better does not necessarily mean that you need the latest all singing all dancing watch, or complications that are mind numbingly complicated, or a price tag that will leave you floored. Better has more to do with thought and quality.

Out of all the brands that were on view at Basel, with exception from the independents, one of the brands that stood out for me was Seiko. Seiko deserve a look and here is why. They have developed their own movements, design, and technology in the mechanical watch. That Seiko do not perhaps receive the praise I feel they are worth is probably the hangover from the quartz era. Seiko were arguably one of the leading lights of the quartz watches and it has taken time to think of Seiko as mechanical manufacturer.

However, there are two watch lines from Seiko at the moment that should make everyone think again. One we have seen before and represents the zenith of Seiko watchmaking: the Grand Seiko. The other line is a new one from Seiko: the Ananta - a luxury steel watch that draws on Japanese heritage and craftsmanship. This message has been edited by AnthonyTsai on 2009-04-14 14:28:32 This message has been edited by MTF on 2009-04-17 07:13:53

Key Points from the Discussion

The new Ananta line, inspired by Japanese heritage and sword craftsmanship, combines traditional metallurgy with handmade movements, positioning itself as a luxury steel watch collection.
Seiko is praised as a true manufacture for making nearly everything in-house, embodying the Japanese philosophy of 'Kaizen' (continuous improvement) and a deep respect for materials and technique.
A long-time Grand Seiko fan expresses interest in a hand-wound high-beat movement and hopes the Ananta line, which shares GS's quality but with a different design flair, will be available in Western markets.
The Ananta's case design, echoing katana blades, is appreciated as a meaningful nod to Seiko's Japanese heritage, with anticipation for more details on the Ananta and the Spring Drive GMT chrono.
The Grand Seiko 36000 high-beat movement, particularly the stainless steel white dial model, is lauded for its beauty, with hopes for its international availability.
Seiko's status as a manufacture giant is cited as proof that many Swiss high-end watches are overpriced, highlighting the brand's exceptional value.
A correction is offered regarding the Ananta's rotor design, clarifying that it is inspired by the Tsuba (sword guard) rather than the Katana itself.

The Discussion

219

Apr 14, 2009

Grand Seiko

g However, Seiko watches are true quality. The mechanical line and their own version of the most accurate form of the mechanical movement, have moved on with telling results. I just loved the Seiko Space watch that was on display. For those into large watches, and with the necessary reserves, this is a must. Definitely a watch built for severe conditions. The Grand Seiko watches are mechanical masterpieces; attention to detail is everything, exacting, innovative in an understated manner, and pro

219

Apr 14, 2009

Ananta

g However, the real surprise from Seiko this year was the Ananta line. With the inspiration coming from Japanese heritage and history. Using the same metal and design techniques from the sword craftsmen, the Ananta line represents the combination of Japanese metallurgy with their hand made movements. The watches are for the luxury market, but are made from steel, and are the first collections to expressly showcase both the high finished Seiko mechanical movements, as well as their Spring Drive..

ling5hk

Apr 14, 2009

Hi Andrew, thanks for bringing these superb watches to us.

I love Ananta series. The case appears to be very well executed. I glad to see that Seiko has improved on the aesthetics of the movement. Regards Ling

219

Apr 16, 2009

Thanks Ling - the case is very well executed and impressive

in form and weight. Take a look at one - especially wth the metal bracelet. Good luck Andrew H

SJX

Apr 14, 2009

Fantastic, thanks Andrew

I am looking forward to seeing the Ananta in person soon! - SJX

219

Apr 16, 2009

Pleasure SJX - I am sure you will be impressed with the Ananta line. Thanks. nt.

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