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.
Seiko Shippo Enamel Limited Edition
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. 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 Shippo Enamel Limited Edition, with power reserve
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 antimagnetic 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.