The production of each watch dial is a multi-stage process that requires several phases of firing and involves great skill and patience. The dials are produced by master craftsman Hiroyuki Hashiguchi and his colleagues at an experienced manufacturer in Arita that has been making porcelain since 1830. To give the dials the strength required for a watch, the craftsmen use a type of Arita porcelain specially formulated to be harder and more durable than traditional porcelain. A very precise casting mold is used to achieve the difficult task of giving each dial the precise dimensions required to fit perfectly into a wristwatch.

While in traditional Arita porcelain a special glaze is applied to create its distinctive subtle blue sheen, a clear, transparent glaze is used for the dial of this new watch to allow the natural whiteness of the porcelain material to shine through. This pure white porcelain, called Hakuji, echoes the delicate reflection of the moon on water, and creates a sharp contrast with the blue of the hands, roman numerals and sub-dials. The combination of the blue color with the white Arita porcelain lends the watch a uniquely Japanese aesthetic that captures the transient yet memorable beauty of the time-honored tradition of Suigetsu.

This limited edition watch carries Seiko’s high performance Caliber 6R27. Its 28,800 vibrations per hour can be seen and enjoyed through the exhibition case back. The crystal is a dual-curved sapphire that delivers high legibility from any angle. The watch is 10 bar water resistant and is presented on a crocodile strap with a blue tone that echoes the color of lakes and ponds illuminated by moonlight. The sub-dial at six o’clock shows the date and the one at nine o’clock, the power reserve in hours.

This Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition will be available from July, 2020 at Seiko Boutiques and selected Seiko retail partners worldwide as a limited edition of 2,000.