Two Spring Drive watches reveal a new side of Presage: Seiko SNR037 and Seiko SNR039

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Since 2016, the Presage collection has been renowned for showcasing many forms of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship in its creations. Today, the collection introduces two new watches that, for the first time in its history, carry Spring Drive movements: Seiko SNR037 and Seiko SNR039. Spring Drive dramatizes a uniquely Japanese aesthetic and sensibility through the quiet and smooth glide motion of the seconds’ hand and its innovative mechanism speaks of Seiko’s mastery of high technology and craftsmanship.

The dial is made of enamel and has a simple yet modern design reflecting the philosophy of a pioneer of modern Japanese design, Riki Watanabe, with whom Seiko had collaborated in several projects in the past. Watanabe passed away in 2013 and so, in creating Seiko SNR037 and Seiko SNR039, Seiko worked with a long-time colleague and friend of Watanabe’s to whom he had entrusted the design direction of his work. The highest level of Japanese aesthetic and craftsmanship is reflected in the movement, materials and design, and with it, a brand new form of Japanese artistry is born in Presage.

Japanese artistry and craftsmanship in the porcelain enamel found on Seiko SNR037 and Seiko SNR039

The dials of the Seiko SNR037 and Seiko SNR039 are made by master craftsman Mitsuru Yokosawa and his colleagues to ensure that each dial is just the right shape and form for the watch dial. They come in two colors; white and black, with each requiring a specific glaze application process that can only be achieved by the skill and sense of a master craftsman. Thanks to this special enamel, the dials have a unique sheen and warm, deep and organic beauty.

A design of Japanese modernity

The Presage team worked closely with Riki Watanabe’s erstwhile colleague to create a dial that brings the design philosophy of Watanabe’s to life. This philosophy has at its heart the pursuit of timeless values that provide long-lasting satisfaction and attention to detail that is clear in every aspect of the watches. It is free from excess decoration on both dial and case and allows for a light, modern style that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. The Didoni font, which was greatly favored by Riki Watanabe himself, the dual-curved sapphire case with super-clear coating and the vivid contrast of color between the dial and the hands and numerals all enhance the watches’ legibility while capturing a perfect balance between beauty and clarity. Calibre 5R65

Presage and Spring Drive – the heritage of Seiko’s watchmaking technology

Both of the two new watches, Seiko SNR037 and Seiko SNR039, incorporate Calibre 5R65 which has an accuracy rate of ±1 second per day and a power reserve of 72 hours. The movement can be seen through the exhibition case back. Both versions come with a power reserve indicator at the eight o’clock position and date display at three o’clock. The case is in stainless steel to which a super hard coating is applied to ensure its lasting pristine beauty. The watches are available from October 2019 in selected Seiko boutiques and selected retail stores around the world.

Riki Watanabe

As a pioneer of modern Japanese design, Riki Watanabe made great contributions to design recognition in both social and educational fields throughout Japan, such as the establishment of the Japan Industrial Designers’ Association. He received many awards including the Milan Triennale Exhibition Gold Award, the Mainichi Design Award, and the Japanese Medal of Honor with purple ribbon awarded by the Government of Japan.