Seiko has also achieved success in the luxury sector. Seiko Group CEO Shinji Hattori has been driving this success. In October 2025, he was appointed Chairman, CEO, and CCO of Seiko Watch Co., Ltd., concurrently holding his current position, in order to further strengthen the company's core watch business.
Text by Masayuki Hirota (Chronos-Japan)
Edited by Yukiya Suzuki (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published in the July 2025 issue of Kronos Japan]
Next year, in 2026, Credor will also participate in W&WG.
Born in 1953, he joined Mitsubishi Corporation after graduating from university. In 1984, he joined Seikosha (now Seiko Time Creation). In 2003, he became President of Seiko Watch, in 2015 President and CEO, and in 2017 Chairman and CEO. In 2010, he became President of Seiko Holdings (now Seiko Group). In 2012, he became Representative Director, Chairman and Group CEO of the company, and in 2020, he also served as Group CCO (Chief Culture Officer), a position he holds to the present day. In October 2013, he became Representative Director, Chairman, CEO and CCO of Seiko Watch. Adhering to the belief of founder Kintaro Hattori of "always being one step ahead of the times," he is committed to furthering the growth of Grand Seiko, which has become a global brand, and promoting Credor overseas.
"Congratulations on the 20th anniversary of the launch of Chronos Japan. Looking back, many changes have occurred in the watch industry over the past 20 years, but what stands out most are the end of Baselworld, which we had participated in for over 30 years, the repeated revival of dress watches, and the emergence of unique, small, independent brands by talented watchmakers – so-called microbrands."
Although he didn't mention it, one of the major topics was undoubtedly Grand Seiko's rapid growth on the global stage, and Hattori was the person who pushed for the establishment of an independent brand, which was one of the catalysts for this growth.
"We declared our intention to go global at Baselworld in 2010. Despite the difficulties we faced in launching the brand overseas, Grand Seiko has since gained acclaim around the world, starting with the United States."
What he values is difference.
A modern dress watch and one of Credor's icons. While it has the classic design of a two-hand dress watch with an ultra-thin hand-wound movement, the case incorporates a three-dimensional feel to make it suitable for everyday use. As the latest creation from Credor, a brand with over 50 years of history, the interior and exterior finishes are first-rate. Hand-wound (Cal. 6890). 22 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 37 hours. 18K yellow gold case (37.1mm diameter, 7.7mm thick). Water resistant to 3 bar. Price: 374 million yen (tax included).
"I feel that the design, based on the 'aesthetic sense of shadow' that is rooted in Japanese culture, the nature dial inspired by the natural environment of the manufacturing area, and the craftsmanship that pursues the essence of time have all been highly praised as a unique 'quiet luxury'. I truly feel that the decision to separate Grand Seiko from Seiko in 2017 was not a mistake," Hattori said, sharing some surprising information.
"Until now, Credor has only been known to a select few overseas, but we hope that watch enthusiasts overseas will recognize its appeal. In 2026, Credor will also participate in the long-awaited Watches & Wonders Geneva." Hattori has always had a deep affection for Credor. Indeed, with the Locomotive and Eichi II models attracting attention, now seems the perfect time to expand globally.
"Even overseas, the Eichi II and other watches have been highly acclaimed by the wealthy and watch connoisseurs. Therefore, I believe that if we can spread the appeal of these watches to the world more, there will be opportunities for Credor, which is still something of a microbrand."
Hattori described Credor as "like a microbrand." It's a typical understatement, but perhaps Credor's future goal is to create something like a microbrand? Seiko's luxury line is being pushed forward by the founding family. I'm sure I'm not the only one looking forward to the future.
