King Seiko, positioned as a historically inspired, dressy sub-collection toward the top end of Seiko’s offering, has been steadily gaining momentum since it was reintroduced back in 2020, with a steady supply of well pitched new pieces. The latest trio, SJE103, SJE105 and SJE107 are no exception.

These three colourful creations expand on the black and white dialled models introduced last year as part of the brand’s regular collection. The new models share the same proportions — 38.6mm across and a slender 10.7mm tall, thanks to the combination of slimmer lugs and a slender box-style crystal. The watch is powered by Seiko’s calibre 6L35, most often found in the Presage collection. This movement debuted in 2018 and has been designed for slimmer watches (the calibre is 3.7mm tall) with 45 hours of reserve. It’s not the most advanced or precise caliber Seiko is capable of deploying, but its slender profile definitely adds to the overall dressy aesthetic of these new King Seikos. One thing that’s worth noting for those keen to pair their own straps with these dressy dials is that the lug width is an uncommon 19mm.

All these elements form the foundation, but the razzle that’s sure to dazzle is undoubtedly the dial. SJE103 is deep red, SJE105 is blue, and SJE107 presents a vision in soft purple. As is common with Seiko’s dials, inspiration comes from nature — here, it’s specifically the Kameido area of Tokyo, a historic neighbourhood in the Koto Ward. All the dials feature a subtle graduated effect, which, combined with texture and colour, is very striking. The deep red of the SJE103 evokes plum blossoms, which can be seen in the stamped dial motif. The soft graduated purple of the SJE105 is inspired by wisteria, and the repeating wisteria pattern on the dial adds an almost graphic linear appeal to this delicate dial. Finally, the deep blue is based on the Sumida River, which flows through the Kameido region, and the dial pattern is an abstracted turtle shell; the animal which serves as a mascot for the region, as it was believed to have once been a turtle-shaped island before land reclamation projects connected it to the rest of the city.

While these local elements certainly add to the richness of the narrative around these watches, the fundamental appeal of these pieces comes down to their sheer visual attraction. The colours are subtle and sophisticated, and Seiko’s dial work is still some of the best in the business.

Tech Specs: King Seiko Kameido SJE103, SJE105 and SJE107

Movement: Automatic-winding Calibre 6L35; 45-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; central seconds; date
Case: 38.6mm × 10.7mm; stainless steel; 50m-water-resistance
Dial: Embossed dials in red, purple or blue
Strap: Seven-link steel bracelet
Price: € 3,400
Availability: From October 2024