The Seiko Presage Craftsmanship Series highlights traditional skills of Japan by showcasing Japanese beauty in mechanical wristwatches. Seiko introduces a new model in the series with a glossy urushi lacquer dial and a GMT function that displays two different time zones. In doing so, the watch combines practical functionality with a dial whose depth invites repeated glances.
Urushi lacquer has been used since ancient times for bowls, plates, and other utensils because of its characteristics as a highly durable natural material, making it an integral part of people’s lives. The lacquer dials in the Craftsmanship Series are carefully crafted by combining an innovative manufacturing method that directly combines metal and lacquer with traditional techniques to create a smooth surface. The lacquer applied to the dial must have a beautiful luster yet be thin enough not to interfere with the movement of the hands, which requires a high level of skill. Under the supervision of lacquer artist Isshu Tamura, craftsmen repeatedly applied and polished the lacquer dozens of times to produce the unique glossy depth.
The new model expresses the glamorous and elegant side of Kanazawa lacquerware by using a subdued gold color for the GMT hand and the 24-hour layout on the outer edge of the indexes, which harmonizes with the glossy, deep black lacquer dial. The brush-like shape of the GMT hand, extending to the edge of the dial, adds an even more elegant impression. In addition, the white three-dimensional bar indexes, hour and minute hands, and mirror-finished seconds hand maximize the contrast with the black lacquer dial, achieving high legibility.
The strap is made of leather produced by a tannery certified by the Leather Working Group*.
*The Leather Working Group (LWG) is a non-profit organization dedicated to responsibly made, sustainable leather production. Since 2005, LWG has designed standards to certify all actors in the supply chain.
Lacquer Artist: Isshu Tamura
Born in 1957, Isshu Tamura trained in the traditional Kaga Maki-e gold lacquer technique of Kanazawa. After honing his skills in the method, Mr. Tamura set out to produce unparalleled original works of art. He has executed his technique in Kaga Maki-e not only in traditional lacquerware objects but also in the creation of luxury fountain pens and wristwatches that have received worldwide acclaim for their elaborate detail and fine beauty.
