M
MECHANICALS
M
MECHANICALS
SEIKO
Presage Shippo Enamel Limited Editions
Blue enamel waves emanate from the center of the beautiful blue enamel dial seen on both these new Seiko Presage models . Available in a limited release of 2,500 pieces each , Seiko is making one version with a three-hand center seconds hand and a date window while the other moves the date from a window to a sub dial and adds a power reserve indicator .
Nearly identical in design , the case of the power reserve model is nonetheless slightly larger at 40.6mm diameter by 14.2mm while the three-hand shaves a few points from the width and height , measuring 40mm by 12.4mm . Either way , this moderate size has come back into favor and is both comfortable to wear and in the case of the Seiko Presage also very well engineered and finished .
Inside the Presage power reserve model beats automatic winding Seiko caliber 6R27 with a 45-hour power reserve beating away at 28,800 bph . The three-hand takes it a bit slower as the Seiko caliber 6R15 uses a frequency of 21,600 bph and , as may be expected has a slightly longer power reserve at 50 hours .
Seiko explains that these Shippo Enamel Limited Editions feature a particular type of enamel that was developed in Japan in the 17th century . Its main difference from porcelain enamel lies in the way it is polished after firing , a process that is particularly challenging on a watch dial that is no more than 1 mm high .
Both watches have a see-though back showing movements that are shock resistant , highly anti magnetic and water resistant to 100 meters . Expect the retail prices right around $ 1,600 for the power reserve and $ 1,400 for the time / date version .
16 | AboutTime Magazine