Seiko Presage Spring Drive Enamel Dial

cazalea · 2019-09-02T05:13:27Z

Discover the new Seiko Presage Spring Drive models SNR037 and SNR039 with enamel dials. Featuring Caliber 5R65 and Riki Watanabe-inspired design.

cazalea

WPS member · Seiko forum

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Cazalea introduces new Seiko Presage models featuring Spring Drive movements, marking a significant integration of high-precision technology into the Presage line. These watches boast enamel dials crafted by master artisan Mitsuru Yokosawa and a design philosophy influenced by Riki Watanabe. The article explores how these models blend Japanese aesthetics, craftsmanship, and the innovative Spring Drive mechanism at a reasonable price point.

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Seiko has just announced a new line of Spring Drive-powered Presage models.

That means we get a Presage enamel dial housed in a 40 x 13 case driven by an extremely accurate automatic movement with “electronically-enhanced” escapement, and a reasonable price.

SNR037 White

SNR039 Black

Since 2016, Seiko's Presage collection has presented many expressions of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship. Now Presage introduces two new watches with Spring Drive movements. Spring Drive dramatizes a uniquely Japanese aesthetic and sensibility through the soundless, smoothly-gliding seconds hand. The 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. Seiko collaborated with him on several projects in the past, before Watanabe passed away in 2013. To create these watches, Seiko worked with a long-time colleague and protoge 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

The dials 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. They come in two colors; white and black, 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 colleague to create a dial that brings the Watanabe design philosophy to life... 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 -- free from excess decoration on both dial and case. A light, modern style that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

- Didoni font, which was greatly favored by Riki Watanabe himself

- Dual-curved sapphire case with super-clear coating

- vivid contrast of color between the dial, the hands and the numerals enhances the watches’ legibility -- a perfect balance between beauty and clarity.

A balance of quality, design and affordability

Seiko Presage Prestige Line Enamel Dial Spring Drive

　Spring Drive Caliber 5R65 (SNR037 White and SNR039 Black)

　Driving System: Automatic

　Power reserve: 72 hours

　Accuracy: ±1 second per day (±15 seconds per month)

　Number of jewels: 30

Specifications

　Stainless steel case with super-hard coating

　Enamel Dial

　Dual-curved sapphire crystal with super-clear coating

　See-through screw case back

　Diameter: 40.0mm, Thickness: 13.1mm

　Water resistance: 10 bar

　Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m

　Cordovan strap with three-fold butterfly deployant clasp with push button release

Approximate recommended retail price in Europe:€4,650

Key Points from the Discussion

The inclusion of a Spring Drive movement is the primary factor contributing to the higher price point of these Presage models, making the $4500 price reasonable when considering other Spring Drive watches start at $3000+.
The font used on the dial is consistent with other classic Seiko and original Presage chronographs, maintaining a recognizable brand aesthetic.
Despite the Spring Drive movement and enamel dial, some users express dissatisfaction with specific design elements like the font, dial dips, and white painted hands, feeling they detract from the watch's perceived value.
The new Presage models are praised for making a very nice and accurate movement accessible within a great watch family featuring enamel dials at an affordable price.

The Discussion

rnaden

Sep 2, 2019

I think this puts a very nice and accurate movement into a great watch family with enamel dials that is affordable!

Boron

Sep 3, 2019

Don’t like the font. Don’t like the dips in the dial. Don’t like white painted hands. Everything just adds up to something that costs far more than its cheapness portrays. Talk about feeling dispirited instead of elated…! [sigh] Don’t think my SNR001 is in any danger of being replaced by one of these.

cazalea

Sep 3, 2019

I can only suggest that the Spring Drive movement is what raises the price to this level. Other Spring Drive watches are in the $3000+ range and up. Add an enamel dial and $4500 is reasonable, for what you get. As far as the font goes, it's in the same family (sorry, pun intended) with other classic Seikos. and the original Presage Chronographs (note also the white hands) Cazalea

cazalea

Sep 3, 2019

No word yet on where to buy one. Mike

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