At a time when the presentation of pocket watches was still the norm, Kintaro Hattori took the bold step of launching his first watch developed to be worn on the wrist. The concept was not entirely new, as wristwatches were already being produced in Europe (on a very limited basis) and the military was converting pocket watches into wristwatches.
Regardless, Seiko’s 1913 model was one of the pioneers of the wristwatch… which is easy to understand when you look at this Laurel watch, which is a rudimentary evolution with clear signs of a pocket watch. However, this watch paved the way for many other models, starting with the direct descendant of Laurel, created in 1924 and becoming the first with the inscription “Seiko” on the dial.
In 2023, Seiko will celebrate the 110th anniversary of its first wristwatch with a series of memorial watches. However, the celebration will start earlier, with the representation of this new limited edition, part of the Presage collection and known as the reference SPB359.
It all starts with a compact body that has been created specifically for this limited edition. Crafted from polished stainless steel, the Laurel Re-Edition SPB359 case has clearly grown from the original 1913 model, but its diameter is a discreet 37.5mm.
When buying a watch, do the packaging and completeness of the watch play a role for you?
You may detect some changes regarding the display. The original Laurel was a 3 hand watch with a small second hand. Its beneficiary, the Presage Laurel Re-Edition SPB359, has more modern mechanics under the hood. Regardless, Seiko has tried to keep some fidelity to the dial at 6 o’clock, but this time it displays the date. The time is indicated in the center, and at the 9 o’clock position there is an unobtrusive power reserve indicator. Retro-style hands are blued.
Inside the case is the automatic caliber 6R27, a well-known movement often found in the Presage line. It beats at a commonness of 4 Hz and keeps a power reserve of up to 45 hours when fully wound. It is hidden under a massive steel back cover.
Availability & Price
The new Seiko Presage Laurel Re-Edition SPB359 watch will be produced in a limited edition of 2,500 pieces and will be available from January 2023 at Seiko boutiques and select retailers worldwide. The price will be ₹ 1,66,978.