Back in Fall 2020, Seiko brought back the King Seiko label again with the SJE083 Limited Edition. The watch was a tribute to the King Seiko KSK and left us wondering if this was a one off or there is more to come? At long last, the wait is over as Seiko brought out 5 new pieces in the King Seiko line up!
The new King Seiko pieces are more in line with the original 1965 44-9990 as the dials are now dateless and have a 37mm case diameter. While the 12.1mm height might be on the tall side for a vintage inspired piece, the sharp angular case and lugs should help the watch look less tall on the wrist. A part of the case height can be attributed to the thick box sapphire crystal that sits above the polished bezel.
The dials are set with polished applied indexes as well as the hands. At 12 o’clock, the indexes are doubled and have a pyramid like finish, similar to a Clous de Paris feel. This is the same for all 5 new watches with the main difference being the color of the dials with the SPB279 having the original silver tone, while the SPB281 have light gray dial, the SPB283 has a charcoal gray dial, the SPB285 has a brown dial, and the SPB287 with a burgundy red dial.
Beating inside is the 6R31 movement, which is nearly identical with the 6R35 seen in other new Seiko watches with the 70 hour power reserveRéserve de marche Also known as Power Reserve. A watch's power reserve refers to the amount of time a mechanical watch can run without being wound. The power reserve of a mechanical watch can vary depending on the size of the mainspring, the efficiency of the gear train, and the rate at which the mainspring releases energy. If a watch has a Power Reserve 'complication' it simply means that the status of the power reserve can be seen on the watch itself (either on the dial or movement side of the watch). [Learn More]. However, the 6R31 has no date function since these watches do not have a date display, and therefore, have 2 less jewelsJewels Watch jewels are small, synthetic sapphire or ruby bearings that are used in mechanical watches to reduce friction and wear on moving parts. They are typically made from corundum. They are used as bearings for a.o. the pivots to reduce friction. [Learn More] as a result. Seiko decided to cover up the movements with the caseback and a King Seiko logo. In addition, the watch is also rated with a water resistance of 10 BAR, so partaking sports activities should be perfectly fine.
All of the watches come with the multilink bracelet that is brushed with polished bevels and faceted links. In addition, the watches can be paired with a vintage styled leather strap with a King Seiko buckle instead of the bracelet. You can check all options out at this interactive website by Seiko.
These new King Seikos have a suggested retail price of 1,700 Euros and should be available in February 2022.
Vintage Inspired KS Collection