The spirit of "always being one step ahead of the times" is embodied in the Arita porcelain dial. A deep dive into the new Seiko Presage 2026 models.

Among the new models announced by Seiko in 2026, watch writer Shinichi Sato focuses on the Seiko Presage "Classic Series Craftsmanship Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition" Ref. HCC007J and takes an in-depth look at it. Seiko has long featured models with Arita porcelain dials in its lineup, but this model is noteworthy for being the first Presage to use a lapis lazuli glaze inspired by "Seiko Blue." Furthermore, the depth of the expression created by the shading due to the uneven surface of the dial is also a major attraction.

A noteworthy Presage model featuring an Arita porcelain dial inspired by "Seiko Blue."

　The origins of Seiko can be traced back to the founding of Hattori Watch Shop in 1881, and 2026 will mark its 145th anniversary. Under the motto of its founder, Kintaro Hattori, "Always be one step ahead of the times," the company completed Japan's first domestically produced wristwatch in 1913. In the 1960s, they succeeded in developing Japan's first mechanical chronograph watch and diver's watch, and in 1969, they released the world's first mass-produced quartz watch. It was during the 1960s, a period of such technological innovation, that "Seiko Blue," which is still used in the company's logo and various models today, was established.

　The founder Kintaro Hattori's spirit of "being one step ahead" is reflected in numerous products in the form of new mechanisms and dial designs. One prime example of this is the use of Arita porcelain on the dial. The reasons for this will be explained later in "Characteristics of Seiko's Arita Porcelain Dials," but the newly announced Seiko Presage "Classic Series Craftsmanship Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition" Ref. HCC007J is the first Presage model to use lapis lazuli glaze, inspired by Seiko Blue, although models using Arita porcelain on the dial have been part of the lineup before.

Features of Seiko's Arita porcelain dial

　Arita ware is a type of porcelain produced in Arita town and its surrounding areas in Saga Prefecture. Arita is considered to be the first place in Japan where porcelain was fired, and during the Edo period, it was known as a production center for "Imari ware" or "Hizen ware." Porcelain is a type of pottery characterized by its white, hard texture created by firing and the luster of its glaze.

　Now, let's briefly summarize the dial materials that create their unique texture through "firing." Enamel is well-known, and cloisonné and enamelware are also included in this broader category. It is made by applying a vitreous glaze to a metal base and firing it at high temperatures, creating a distinctive luster and depth of color. Another famous material is porcelain, which means porcelain in English. It is made by firing mineral-derived raw materials at high temperatures, and is characterized by its white, glossy texture, which is created by densely firing the base material. If it is thick enough, like tableware, strength can be ensured, but when it is formed as thin as a watch dial, there is a risk of cracking or warping, and it is difficult to ensure dimensional accuracy.

　Considering this technical background, when we look at Seiko's Arita porcelain dials, we can see that they are significantly different from simple "porcelain dials made from Arita porcelain," and that various improvements have been made. In terms of strength, which is the most important aspect in practical use, the use of materials developed specifically for dials has resulted in more than four times the strength of conventional dials. Furthermore, a casting process using precisely processed plaster molds is employed, achieving a balance between the glossy and soft appearance characteristic of Arita porcelain and the precision of a modern wristwatch.

　

　

Taking it a step further, the blue dial is finished with a lapis lazuli glaze.

　As mentioned earlier, the distinguishing feature of this Arita porcelain dial is the lapis lazuli glaze, inspired by Seiko Blue. Lapis lazuli glaze is used in many types of ceramics, and in Arita porcelain in particular, the vibrant lapis lazuli glaze that stands out against the white porcelain surface is very appealing. From this, it can be said that this watch, while drawing on Seiko's history, further enhances the charm of Arita porcelain.

　Upon seeing this piece, my initial impression was that it was "very much like pottery." This was because the gradation created by the pattern on the dial was similar to what can be seen in pottery, and the contrast and sense of depth with the white base visible behind it gave me the feeling that it was Arita ware.

　Like previous models, the dial of this watch was created in collaboration with Shin-gama, a long-established pottery studio with over 190 years of history. The supervision was handled by Hiroyuki Hashiguchi, a traditional craftsman of Imari and Arita ware underglaze painting and an Arita ware potter with numerous awards to his name. In addition, many Arita craftsmen, led by Toshiaki Kawaguchi, who inherits Hashiguchi's techniques, were involved in the development of this watch's dial.

　The biggest challenge in creating this dial was precisely achieving the gradation and sense of depth that the lapis lazuli glaze produces. If the lapis lazuli glaze is too light in color, even if applied thickly, it won't have the characteristic Seiko Blue look. Conversely, if the color is too dark, the glaze needs to be applied thinly, but this makes it difficult to create a sense of depth. The patterned design on the dial also needs to have the optimal height difference to match the lapis lazuli glaze used, otherwise the desired gradation will not be achieved. Therefore, in order to achieve both the characteristic Seiko Blue look and the gradation, three elements—the color tone of the lapis lazuli glaze, the thickness of the application, and the depth of the patterned design—need to work together perfectly, making it such an extremely difficult task that Seiko described it as "an unprecedented challenge."

　The center of the dial is slightly lower, creating a radial pattern of light and shadow due to its uneven surface. The area separating the center from the outer edge stands out in white like a border, adding definition to the dial design. The center also appears darker than the outer edge, creating a sense of depth and contrast. With its unique and expressive design and high level of craftsmanship, we encourage you to check it out in person at a store.

A classic design with proportions adapted to a modern format.

　Focusing on its proportions, this model can be described as a classic design that combines a curved case silhouette with soft, leaf-shaped hour and minute hands, all within a modern 39.6mm diameter format. It sits comfortably on my wrist, which has a circumference of approximately 18cm, with no noticeable lifting of the lugs. However, since wrist circumference varies from person to person, and this applies to all models, I recommend trying it on in-store.

　The strap is a navy leather strap that matches the dial color. It has a remarkably soft feel, and its texture suggests it will become even softer and more comfortable with use.

The Arita porcelain dial is simply captivating, so be sure to check it out in-store.

　Traditional Arita porcelain dial models often emphasized the appeal of the porcelain's whiteness and the uniform luster achieved through the glaze. In contrast, this model is characterized by its active display of the transparency of the lapis lazuli glaze and the shading and depth created by the molded pattern. I feel that this approach is similar to the enamel-based expression techniques that are also produced by firing, and it can be said that this finish reflects Seiko's spirit of "being one step ahead."

　The author felt that the contrast between the white porcelain surface and the translucent blue of Arita ware was "quintessentially pottery-like," and it is very appealing, so I highly recommend checking it out in stores.