Seiko

The King Seiko line is expanding

Feb 08, 2023,21:38 PM

Today Seiko introduces into the King Seiko collection a commemorative watch with a dial inspired by a traditional Japanese geometric pattern known as Kikkoumon, which is based on the hexagonal shape of a Tortoise shell. The design is a nod to the 1960s origins of King Seiko, which was born at a facility in the Kameido section of Tokyo, once known as Kameshima, an area bounded by rivers and streams and known as “Tortoise Island.” The watch celebrates the 110th anniversary of Seiko watchmaking.

At first glance, the gradient dial enchantingly plays with light, but a closer examination reveals a design inspired by a traditional Japanese geometric pattern known as Kikkoumon, which is based on the hexagonal shape of the tortoise shell. In Japanese culture, the tortoise symbolizes longevity and prosperity, and the six-sided chelonian shape is further associated with samurai armor, as an auspicious pattern signifying strength and victory.

Moreover, the Kikkoumon is a nod to the 1960s origins of King Seiko, which was born at a facility in the Kameido section of Tokyo, once known as Kameshima, an area bounded by rivers and streams and known as “Tortoise Island.” The dial pattern has tremendous depth and texture – each hexagon is in fact series of three inset hexagons, each deeper than the last – and this depth is further expressed on the entire dial through a gradual darkening from the center to the edges.

It features the same elegant 37mm case and a seven-link bracelet seen in other King Seiko watches over the past year. The sharpness and angularity are inspired by the classic 1965 King Seiko KSK – the second King Seiko series and the one that defined the collection’s character. Strap and Bracelet provided with watch.

The patterned dial, in combination with the faceted indexes and razor-edged hands, endows the anniversary King Seiko with a refined and striking presence, and the bold, angular lugs feature both mirror polished and hairline finishing, providing ample visual contrast as well as a sense of precision in manufacturing. It’s a fitting tribute to the place and time that gave rise to a horological classic, but with all the expected attributes of a premium watch made in the modern era. These include a box-shaped sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating and a state-of-the-art automatic movement with 70 hours of power reserve..