In this current age of vintage-inspired watches and reissues, the models of the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s are by and large the most popular models to pay homage to, which makes sense seeing as this era was the rise of the diver, the racing chronograph, and the quartz watch. However, it was the references from the early part of the 20th century that first introduced the very innovation of the wristwatch to the public, and many iconic brands got their start around this time as well. One such watchmaker whose lineage can be traced back to this era is Seiko, who has just decided to pay tribute to the first-ever timepiece to bear the brand’s name across the dial.
A few months after homaging the Laurel, its first-ever wristwatch from 1913 when the brand was called Seikosha, Seiko has now fast-forwarded to 1924 following its rebranding. Named after the Japanese watchmaker’s founder, the Presage Kintaro Hattori Limited Edition SPB441 will be out in time to anticipate the 100th anniversary of the original’s release next year. While not necessarily a 1:1 replica, the new timepiece certainly looks like the 1924 model, with the same dial configuration, Breguet hour marker style, brand font, and blue hands. The case size is just as small at a compact 35mm, with an antique-style pull-through leather strap.
The main difference you’ll notice on the new release is the addition of the seconds hand, supplanting the small seconds subdial from the 1924 watch. The subdial is still there, however, but it’s been repurposed as a 24-hour indicator instead. As you’d expect (and hope for), the movement is also a modern one in the 6R5H automatic caliber with 72 hours of power reserve.
Limited to just 1,000 pieces, the Presage Kintaro Hattori Limited Edition SPB441 will go up for sale in January for $1,900 from Seiko.
