Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref. SARX095

Seiko has developed into a well-respected brand whose watches have been enjoyed by many since its founding in 1881. The brand is an undisputed king of watchmaking from its first mechanical watch in 1913 to the 2014 prize at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) for its hi-beat caliber. In recent years, Seiko has worked hard to streamline its offerings. The Prospex and Presage lines have become more defined and stand on their own capably. Today’s new release is part of the latter. Let us take a closer look.

First launched in 2016, the Seiko Presage range is an all-mechanical series to showcase the refined and elegant side of Seiko - no matter the price point. Seiko’s prowess as a watchmaker can be observed and admired from the entry-level Presage Cocktail Time to higher-end enamel and porcelain dial Presages. The intricate dial designs are a true marvel to look at. The new Presage Ref. SARX095 extends Seiko’s lineup of highly sought-after porcelain dial watches. 

Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref. SARX095

Let’s get the dimensions out of the way. Coming in at 40.5mm in diameter, the watch has a lug-to-lug of 48.8mm and a thickness of 12.4mm. With a 316L stainless steel construction, the watch features a beautiful mix of finishing - satin-brushed at the top of the twisted lugs with a high polished mid-case and fixed steel bezel. The proportions of the timepiece help with the wearability, making it suitable for almost all wrist sizes.

As the name suggests, the dial is made from Arita porcelain. Crafted under the watchful eyes of Arita porcelain craftsman Hiroyuki Hashiguchi, they are executed traditionally by specialized artisans. Arita porcelain is more than four times harder than usual porcelain. It undergoes a casting process using ultra-high-precision moulds and is fired at a high temperature of 1,300°C. The dials are then glazed and fired multiple times to complete the highly challenging process. Blued leaf hands are utilised here, while the applied indices are slender Roman numerals. Unlike previous Arita porcelain dial Presages, there is no date window on this timepiece. It is a welcomed removal, allowing the dial to be perfectly symmetrical. The dial is also not completely flat, as the indices sit higher on the outer edges while the Seiko and Presage brand names sit on the recessed center, creating a gorgeous, gentle depth to the dial. 

Intricate finishing on the multi faceted case and bracelet

A dual-curved sapphire crystal protects the elegant porcelain dial. It is also covered with an anti-reflective coating, ensuring that the readability of the dial will not be affected even in harsh lighting. Despite its push-pull crown and charming good looks, the watch is certified to 100m of water resistance. You can go from office to pool party without the watch ever leaving your wrist!

Flipping the watch over, you will find a screw-down exhibition caseback showcasing the Seiko 6R31 calibre. The 6R31 is a time-only cousin of the more commonly used 6R35 movement. Replacing the 6R15 movement, it is Seiko’s mid-range automatic calibre and has proved to be reliable and robust. It has 24 jewels, beats at 21,600 BPH, and an improved power reserve of 70 hours. 

Caseback showcasing the Seiko 6R31 calibre

Seiko went with a 20mm 3-link stainless steel bracelet on the SARX095. Similar to the case, the bracelet features a mixture of brushed and polished finishing that gives the watch a classy, almost Grand Seiko-esque look. The bracelet tapers gently to a signed folding buckle and will sit comfortably on the wrist. 

In conclusion, the Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial Ref. SARX095 is an instant classic. The watch features charming good looks and a robust movement and leans on the dressier side. However, it is no slouch with a sapphire crystal and 100m of water resistance and definitely not just a show pony. Wear it to the office, or when you’re sipping a glass of wine by the pool on the weekends, the choice is entirely yours.

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