** UPDATE **
These beautiful models will NOT be available for US distribution.

Seiko made it's first watch in 1913 and has been on a roll ever since. In 1956 they made their first automatic watch and introduced their proprietary shock resistant system called Diashock in 1958. Their next technological innovation was in 1959 when they invented the magic lever spring winding mechanism and was followed in 1964 by the in-house production of balance springs with their own specially created alloy. In 1967, Seiko manufactured Japan's first hi-beat caliber and in 1969 they created the world's first automatic chronograph with vertical clutch and column wheel systems.

For over a century, Seiko has been pushing the technological envelope of it's purely mechanical watchmaking skills. Today, they have taken the wraps off a new global collection of purely mechanical powered timepieces dubbed Presage.

The first model to debut are yin and yang variations of a 60th Anniversary Limited Edition chronograph powered by Seiko's Caliber 8R48 automatic chronograph movement. Both models are limited to 1000 pieces.

The SRQ019 features a beautiful white enamel dial. The beauty, depth and subtle texture of the enamel dial is self-evident, but what makes this model so special is the fact that each dial is made by skilled craftsmen, led by Mitsuru Yokozawa who ensures that the color of the enamel will last for decades, just as the dial on the 1913 Laurel has done. The finishing of any enamel can easily be affected by weather and humidity, and it is very difficult to control the precise thickness of the enamel as it is laid down on each dial. To meet these challenges requires the very highest level of skills, and Seiko is honored to have Mr. Yokozawa in charge of the finish of every enamel dial for Presage. Only the most exclusive, traditional Japanese craftsmanship will do for this special Presage Limited Edition. 

The SRQ021 features a gorgeous black Urushi lacquer dial. Craftsmanship of a very different nature but of the same high quality gives the lacquer dial its deep black luster. The dials are made in the studio of master craftsman Isshu Tamura in Kanazawa, on the western side of Honshu, Japan’s main island, using the centuries old art of Urushi which allows the creation of lacquer whose black color is almost magically deep and which gets harder and stronger as the years pass. The dials are painted and polished by hand several times. It is time-consuming and challenging work, but it is the traditional and best way to create the perfect black color. 

Other models of note in the Presage collection are the SPB041 Multi-hand automatic on a brown croc strap and the the SSA303 Automatic with central power reserve on a steel bracelet.

We're expecting more information on these dynamic timepieces very soon.  In the meantime, here are some technical details for you to get excited about.

Seiko Automatic Watch 60th Anniversary Limited Editions: SRQ019, SRQ021
Caliber 8R48, Automatic Chronograph
Chronograph up to 12 hours
Column wheel and vertical clutch systems
Vibrations: 28,800 vibrations per hour (8 beats per second)
Power reserve: approximately 45 hours
Jewels: 34 jewels
Specifications:
Stainless steel case
Enamel dial (SRQ019), Urushi lacquer dial (SRQ021)
Curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Diameter: 42.0 mm
Thickness: 15.2mm
Water resistance: 100 meters
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Crocodile strap with three-fold clasp with push button release
--> Approximate recommended retail price in the United States: $2,300 USD (SRQ019) / $2,600 USD (SRQ021)

Multi-hand Automatic: SPB041
Caliber 6R27
Vibrations: 28,800 vibrations per hour (8 beats per second)
Power reserve: approximately 45 hours
Jewels: 29 jewels
Specifications:
Stainless steel case
Curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Diameter: 40.5mm, Thickness: 13.1mm
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Crocodile strap with three-fold clasp with push button release
--> Approximate recommended retail price in United State: $995 USD

Automatic with center power reserve indicator: SSA303
Caliber 4R57
Vibrations: 21,600 vibrations per hour (6 beats per second)
Power reserve: approximately 41 hours
Jewels: 29 jewels
Specifications:
Stainless steel case
Sapphire crystal
Diameter: 42.00mm, Thickness: 14.0mm
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Stainless steel bracelet with three-fold clasp with push button release
--> Approximate recommended retail price in United States: $595 USD

Stay tuned to AZ Fine Time for more information. In the meantime, take a look at the Grand Seiko timepieces available here.