Seiko Explained: Ultimate Seiko Watch Buying Guide

Seiko began in the late 1800’s and has since grown from strength to strength. Being one of the biggest innovators within the world of watches, they continue to redefine the meaning of quality watchmaking around the world.  

Below, you will discover not only the history of Seiko but also what makes their watches an incredible addition to any collection. Guiding you to uncover your perfect watch that screams luxury without the price tag.  

Redefining History: The Success of Seiko

Founded in 1892 by horologist enthusiast, Kintaro Hattori. Beginning as a humble repair factory in the business of repairing imported wall clocks.  in the bustling city of Tokyo, Hattori created one of the most influential watchmaking brands in the world.  

In a few short years, Seiko, or the Seikosha Factory, produced Japan's first pocket watch; The Timekeeper, and alarm clocks in 1899. Seiko quickly established itself as a strong force within a market of imported timepieces.  

Due to war, the first Seiko Wristwatch wouldn't grace Japan until 1913. And with the destruction of World War I in 1914, Seiko seized the opportunity to get their name out there and provide soldiers with those essential aviation watches.  

In 1924, the –post earthquake year, and the brand Seiko was born with the intention of following its historical mission; 

 “Always be one step ahead of the rest” 

Today, Seiko is recognised as a watchmaking powerhouse. Creating unique designs that propel them to the front of innovation. Transforming not only the horological landscape of Japan but the world.  

The Seiko Standard

While positioning themselves at a much lower price point than their competitors within the realm of luxury watches, Seiko holds themselves to luxury standards: 

1. Value 

As one of the biggest players in horology, Seiko knows their products are a worthy investment. Using high quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and incredible designs, each timepiece is a piece of history.  

2. Quality

Starting as a simple repair factory, Seikosha gave the Seiko brand the experience of working with high quality materials, which was then continued through their legacy.

Using materials such as stainless steel, titanium, and Colbalt hard alloy cases and fired sapphire crystal glass, Seiko watches are functional, stylish, and durable. Designed to last for generations.

3. In-House Movements 

Each Seiko watch is crafted with an in-house movement. Not a common statement made within the watch market. Seiko strives to be the best and with each movement, they get that one step closer.  

Discover the Collections 

Inspiring some of the most iconic watch releases around the world, Seiko has an expansive catalogue that ranges from sleek dress watches to mechanically magnificent diving watches, meaning you can find your dream watch. Let’s take a look at some of the incredible creations produced by the Japanese innovators.  

Seiko Prospex

Considered the flagship collection, Seiko Prospex is a range of excellent sport watches that transcend the simple timepiece. The name alludes to “pro-specs,” a collection of timepieces designed to fulfil the rigorous demands of professional diving, racing, and exploration activities. Moreover, each piece serves as a robust and stylish everyday watch, offering functionality and affordability. 

The Seiko Prospex Arnie is an iconic rendition of the famous Arnold Schwarzenegger Seiko diving watch. The updated version showcases a two-time zone display set against a black dial, embellished with Lumibrite-coated hour markers, hands, and the emblem of PADI. A hybrid of analogue and digital display, powered by the incredible solar technology.  

Seiko Presage

Taking a more refined approach, Seiko Presage is a collection of elegance and sophistication. Here, the brand explores new design concepts that embrace the history of Japanese arts.  

An iconic model is the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time ‘Midnight Mockingbird’ Power Indicator. The design is delightfully and uniquely influenced by the dynamic sophistication found in modern Tokyo’s cocktail bars, particularly the “Aviation cocktail.” This influence yields an elegant yet detailed style that maintains intrigue and avoids being too traditional. 

Seiko 5 Sports

Originally launched in the 1960’s as the Seiko 5 line as the all-encompassing sports watch. With the promise of exploring the outdoors, the collection of loved ones has become outdated. In 2019, the range of reintroduced as Seiko 5 Sports with a modern appeal and mechanical movement.  

Embracing tradition, the Seiko 5 Sports ‘Laurel’ Limited Edition 110th Wrist Watchmaking Anniversary is a vision of legacy. A modern recreation of the first ever Japanese wristwatch was released in 1913. This model eliminates the need for battery changes with an automatic movement. Experience the artistry of Seiko with a piece of history. 

Understanding Seiko In-House Movements

As mentioned above, Seiko pride themselves on their incredible in-house movements. But what does that mean for your watch? We break down some of Seiko’s most famous watch movements to provide you with the know-how to select your perfect timepiece.  

The Seiko NH35 Movement

The Seiko NH35 movement is one of the most well-known and mechanically sound movements on the market. This self-winding movement has a gorgeous Diashock system, an in-house creation that absorbs the shock from the hand movement for a smooth function.  

The Seiko VK63 Movement

While dominating the quartz and automatic movement industry, Seiko have also began creating mecha-quartz movements. A hybrid movement that uses quartz technology for the primary functions while the mechanical elements power the chronograph.  

The Seiko VK63 movement features a dynamic tri-compax configuration that replicates the functions of a mechanical chronograph, complete with a seconds hand that resets immediately, while also incorporating the dependability of a quartz movement. 

Seiko also released the VK64 movement, with a few select tweaks that transform the timepiece.  

What To Look For In Your Seiko Watch

Now that we understand the history behind the brand, the incredible collections, and the movements that make them tick, its time to think about selecting your perfect Seiko watch. We have a few elements to look for: 

1. Quality Materials 

As we all know, Seiko hold themselves to extremely high standards, meaning they only use the best materials to craft their timepieces.  
From stainless steel to titanium, Seiko use only the highest quality materials to further the longevity of their watches. Crafting timepieces that last for generations.  

2. Water Resistance 
With a wide selection of diving watches, Seiko has perfected the water resistance of their watches. Allowing you to explore deeper than ever before.  
Seiko 5 Sport is a collection designed for adventure and has the highest water resistance from the Seiko catalogue.  

3. Style 
While underneath are all cool mechanics and interesting technology, Seiko watches are also gorgeously stylish. Offering elegance and sophistication, they can go from the beach to the office seamlessly.  

You will always be proud to own a Seiko watch.  

Caring For Your Seiko Watch

Caring for your Seiko watch is a crucial part to making sure your investment lasts. And it’s not a hard process.  

If you wear your watch daily, be sure to wipe it down with a soft cloth at the end of the day. Removing any dirt and oil from your skin will keep everything running smoothly and prevent the metals from tarnishing.  

Seiko watches are great for adventure but need some detailed care afterwards. While they have great water resistance, ensure to dry off any moisture from the entire watch with a soft cloth once it is removed from the wrist.  

If you enjoy the feel of the open ocean, be sure to gently wash it in still, fresh water and dry it completely with a soft towel afterwards. Do not place your Seiko watch into water when the crown is released.  
Avoid cleaning your timepiece under running water. Place it in a basin or bowl of fresh water to clean.  

Seiko watches should be serviced around every 3 years at an authorised servicing workshop. Our workshops at Chisholm Hunter are filled with expert craftsmen ready to keep your watch running smoothly.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Is The Lifespan Of A Seiko Watch?

Seiko pride themselves on creating watches that last for generations, not just a few years.

The durability of a Seiko Solar Watch varies with the model and how it’s used, but typically, it has a long-lasting life. Its rechargeable battery can endure for over a decade, and as long as the watch receives light, it will keep operating.

How Are Seiko Watches Affordable?

A big selling point for the luxury watch brand is designing luxury level watches without the crazy luxury price tag. This is possible due to Seiko doing everything they can in-house. From movements to construction, the entire catalogue is made in-house, limiting expenditure and allowing for a much more affordable price point. 

How to Athenticate Your Seiko Watch?

Each authentic Seiko watch is distinguished by a distinct serial number etched onto the back of the case. To identify counterfeit Seiko watches, you can verify these two markers. Imitation Seiko watches typically either do not have serial numbers or have fraudulent ones.

TAG Heuer have spent generations building a legacy of accurate and functional timepieces. From racing watches to dress watches, anyone can be proud to wear a TAG Heuer watch. Experimenting and exploration are a the heart of the Heuer ethos, so are you ready to go where no one has ever gone before? 

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