Japanese watchmaker Seiko has launched a collection of six limited-edition timepieces inspired by Edo purple, a colour closely associated with Tokyo's cultural identity, to mark the brand's 145th anniversary and pay tribute to the history of the former city of Edo — the historical name for the Japanese capital before the Meiji era.
Seiko's origins date to 1881, when Kintaro Hattori opened his first shop in Tokyo's Ginza district, selling and repairing watches. The company evolved alongside the city over the following decades and established itself as one of the foremost names in global watchmaking. The new collection revisits that history by drawing on traditions that took root in the old city of Edo.
The defining colour of the collection was among the most prized hues in Japan during the Edo period, between 1603 and 1868, when it became entrenched as a symbol of the city's cultural identity. Across the six models, Edo purple appears in varying intensities and applications — on dials, bezels, straps, and gilt details. Seiko describes Edo purple as a bridge between the traditions of ancient Edo and the Tokyo of today.
Prospex revives sporting heritage
The Prospex line receives two new interpretations. The Prospex Alpinist, reference HBC006, pays homage to the original model launched in 1959 by reproducing the historic 'Alpinist' logotype beneath the Seiko name at the 12 o'clock position. The watch houses the 6R55 automatic mechanical calibre, operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour, offers a 72-hour power reserve, and contains 24 jewels. The stainless steel case features a super-hard coating and measures 39.5 millimetres in diameter, while the strap is made from leather sourced from LWG-certified tanneries. The edition is limited to 7,000 pieces.
The Prospex Speedtimer, reference HBJ005, extends the line of solar chronographs inspired by designs from the 1960s and 1970s. The watch uses the solar-powered V192 calibre, incorporates a 24-hour hand and power reserve indicator, and features a stainless steel case measuring 41.4 millimetres. The edition is limited to 8,000 units.
Astron combines GPS technology with dusk aesthetics
The Astron line gains the HAB011 model — a GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph whose dial displays a vertical purple gradient combined with horizontal lines of varying widths. The watch runs on the 5X83 calibre, enables automatic time-zone adjustment via GPS signal, and includes a perpetual calendar valid until 2100 along with a daylight saving time function. The case measures 43.3 millimetres in diameter and the edition is limited to 2,000 pieces.
Presage pays tribute to a cocktail created by a Japanese bartender
The Presage Cocktail Time, references HCB006 and HDB003, draws inspiration from the Edo Purple cocktail, created by Hisashi Kishi, proprietor of the storied STAR BAR and the first Japanese bartender to receive the title of Contemporary Master Craftsman. The dial features a deep translucent purple finish with golden reflections and a radial pattern. The model uses the 4R34 automatic calibre, offers a GMT function, a 41-hour power reserve, and a 40.5-millimetre case. The run is limited to 6,000 pieces.
Seiko 5 Sports and Seiko Selection round out the collection
The Seiko 5 Sports SKX, reference HFL001, revisits the established SKX design with an intense purple dial, gilt details, and a Hardlex bezel. The 4R36 automatic calibre powers the watch, which features a 42.5-millimetre case. The edition is limited to 9,999 pieces — the largest run in the collection.
Completing the launch is the Seiko Selection 'Rotocall', a reinterpretation of a 1982 digital model known among collectors by the same name. The piece retains the rotating selector that gives access to the alarm, chronograph, and timer functions, now presented in a black case with gilt details and a purple dial. The A824 quartz calibre powers the watch, offering a precision of ±20 seconds per month, with a diameter of 37.0 millimetres. The run is limited to 4,000 units.
All six watches will carry the inscription 'LIMITED EDITION' engraved on the case back and will be available at Seiko Boutiques and selected retailers from October. Retail prices have not yet been disclosed.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=529899
