In 2021, Seiko commemorated its 140th anniversary with the revival of one of its most sought-after timepiece from its archives, the King Seiko. The original was debuted in the early 1960’s and introduced in a refined version in 1965 that was distinguished by high precision, mirrored by a highly clean and expressive design.
Now, Seiko brings back the second model lineup, the KS1969, based on the King Seiko 45KCM from 1969. Channeling the charm of the original, the newcomers feature a subtle tonneau-shaped stainless steel case, adopting the contours of the 1969 watch but reimagining them for modern times with a rounded, box-shaped glass and a lowered center for increased wearability.
Water-resistant to 50 meters and anti-magnetic up to 4,800 A/m, the King Seiko KS1969 has a “goldilocks” diameter of 39mm and is 9.9mm thick. It boasts a closed case back with the logo of King Seiko.
The vintage-inspired, filigree multi-link brick bracelet has also been redesigned, with shorter links that almost resemble a closely interwoven mesh pattern. It is equipped with a push-button butterfly clasp.
The three new royalties are powered by the slim automatic 6L35 caliber with 45-hour power, which operates at a rate of 28,800 vph and has an accuracy of +15 to -10 seconds per day.
Seiko offers three standard dial variations: silver, “Edo purple,” and vignette green. All have a finely-grained and textured finish that resemble traditional handmade Japanese paper and a date window at 3 o’clock.
Additionally, limited to 700 pieces, the King Seiko KS1969 Limited Edition (ref. SJE115) has the same specifications as the three iterations joining the main King Seiko collection but features a light blue dial with a textured pattern inspired by a “rising dragon,” serving as a metaphor for the Seiko brand progressing toward the next 100 years. In addition, the dragon is also the animal sign for 2024 in the Japanese zodiac. Legend has it that people born in the Year of the Dragon are charismatic, intelligent, confident, powerful and gifted. In everything that they do, they tend to do it to the best of their ability with high standards. As such, it serves as a fitting emblem for the Seiko brand.
All four references will be available from July 2024, with pricing marked at $3,100.
To learn more, visit Seiko, here.
