Seiko

On the way back in I thought maybe I should do a photo session on this watch - we need some simple beauty as a respite for this week's hectic activities and societal and political turmoil. And it's not a well-known piece.

So when I got home I had lunch, grabbed my camera, and headed for the back garden (and did some research too, because while "photos only" is the hallmark of some watch / social media sites, I believe PuristS like beauty AND facts).

If you are not familiar with this model, it's styled like the original Grand Seiko from 1960. Manual wind. Blued second hand. Stainless steel case. 

This watch's movement uses MEMS technology. Seiko says:

"MEMS technology is a skill transferred to Grand Seiko from Seiko's semi-conductor making division. A part made by MEMS is more durable than a machined part, and it is more resistant to abrasion. SEIKO's MEMS technology delivers precision in manufacturing 2 to 5 times greater than any machining process on Earth.

MEMS is an abbreviation for micro-electro-mechanical systems—a state-of-the-art processing technology used to manufacture semiconductors and other high-precision components. MEMS differs from the old metal processing methods of pressing, cutting, and polishing. 

Instead, shapes are made using photolithography (a process similar to developing photos using light-sensitive chemicals), on top of which a thick plating is deposited using electroforming technology. This processing method allows the manufacturing of complex shapes with greater accuracy than cutting, and also produces smoothly finished surfaces. In addition, hard materials can be used for parts while slightly adjusting the shape to keep the weight down, thereby greatly improving the accuracy and durability of the watch parts."

 

The 9S64 movement contains a SPRON mainspring which despite being in a normal barrel, gives 72 hours of running time. Seiko says:

"The precision and power reserve of a mechanical watch depend greatly on the quality of the balance spring and main spring. SEIKO's unique alloy, SPRON 510, leads the industry by delivering extended power and accuracy. SPRON is a registered trademark of Seiko Instruments Inc."

As far as the case goes, it's 36mm x 10.5mm, snap back, with Zaratsu polishing. Seiko says:

"Every surface of each case and bracelet is polished by the experienced craftsmen.The mirror finish on the case side surface has no distortion. The process is known as Zaratsu or blade polishing and is made by carefully applying a rotating tin plate against the case at a very precise angle. This process is entrusted to only the most skillful and experienced craftsmen and women."

Black leather strap. Lined with smooth leather.

Typical Grand Seiko hands and markers. 

To ensure perfect legibility in poor light conditions the hands and markers have a specially sculpted shape and their surface is very carefully polished to a razor edge, so that even the slightest ray of light reflects off their surfaces."

Lion cast in the back, and deeply textured buckle.

The font used on the dial is more elaborate than today's Grand Seiko text. The dial itself is a milky creamy white.

The high-crowned crystal adds a subtle touch of vintage to the watch, as does the very long second hand.

The heat-blued second hand is striking.

But not to the leaf hopper on our edible nasturtiums. 

The dial also says Diashock which is Seiko's term for its shock mounting system for the main jewels in the movement.

The little spring shown below.

Roses

Bougainvillea and Trumpet Vines