To mark its 145th anniversary, Seiko has introduced a quartet of commemorative watches spanning time only dress pieces through to high technology chronographs. Each model features gold toned details that serve as the visual link across an otherwise diverse lineup.
The anniversary collection is anchored by two three hand watches. At the upper end sits the King Seiko KS1969 145th Anniversary SJE121, joined by the Presage Classic Series “Craftsmanship” Enamel Dial SPB538. Completing the quartet are two chronographs that reflect Seiko’s dual track approach to timing instruments: the mechanical Prospex Speedtimer SRQ059 and the solar powered Astron GPS Dual Time Chronograph SSH186.
Anniversary editions are a familiar exercise for Seiko, which regularly revisits its back catalog and technical capabilities through commemorative releases. In this case, the theme is applied across multiple collections rather than confined to a single family, resulting in four watches with distinct historical references and technical identities.
The most historically grounded of the group is the King Seiko KS1969 SJE121—it’s also my favorite of the bunch. The dial features a stamped radial pattern inspired by the engine turned cases of pocket watches sold by Kintaro Hattori in Ginza during the late nineteenth century, before Seiko began manufacturing its own timepieces in 1895. The dial is finished in a graduated grey tone that darkens toward the periphery, paired with gold plated hands and indices.
Beyond the dial treatment, the watch remains consistent with the standard production KS1969. The stainless steel case follows the compact and slim proportions of the 1969 original, houses the automatic Calibre 6L35, and is fitted to a beads of rice style bracelet that reinforces the vintage reference point.
The Presage Classic Series SPB538 looks further back in Seiko’s history, drawing inspiration from the “Timekeeper” pocket watch produced in 1895. That model marked a foundational moment for Japanese watchmaking and informs the restrained, early wristwatch aesthetic used here. The SPB538 is notable as the first Presage in this design language to feature a gold plated case.
Design details include an onion style crown, a knurled bezel, and wire style lugs that echo the earliest wristwatches of the early twentieth century. The dial is rendered in fired enamel, while the movement is a modern automatic calibre offering a three day power reserve. The movement’s height results in a case thickness of 12.3 mm, which is substantial relative to the 35 mm diameter.
The chronographs complete the anniversary quartet by representing two sides of Seiko’s long standing stopwatch expertise. The Prospex Speedtimer SRQ059 is mechanical and automatic, featuring a guilloché stamped dial with gold plated hands and indices. The stainless steel case measures 42 mm in diameter and 14.6 mm thick. Power comes from the Calibre 8R48, a column wheel, vertical clutch chronograph movement used across Seiko’s mid to upper tier mechanical offerings.
In contrast, the Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph SSH186 reflects Seiko’s emphasis on satellite linked timekeeping technology. The watch is solar powered and capable of syncing with GPS satellites for automatic time and time zone adjustment. It also incorporates a perpetual calendar and world time functionality. The black coated titanium case and bracelet are accented with gold toned elements, a color scheme that continues across the dial.
Together, the four watches illustrate Seiko’s approach to anniversary collections: broad in scope, rooted in brand history, and spanning traditional mechanical watchmaking through to contemporary electronic timekeeping. Prices range from $1,900 to $3,300 and you can learn more by visiting Seiko’s official site.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.