With a rich heritage spanning over 60 years, Grand Seiko has become synonymous with precision, quality, and timeless beauty.

For over six decades, Grand Seiko has set the standard for precision, quality, and timeless beauty in watchmaking. Meticulous attention to detail, integration of nature-inspired designs, and innovative communication strategies characterize Japanese watchmaking, making it a revered and influential force in the luxury watch industry.

Since expanding its global presence in 2010, Grand Seiko has been on a quiet rise while making its exceptional timepieces available to enthusiasts worldwide. And when it did command attention, its dedication to creating timepieces transcended mere measurement, especially when it launched a mechanical beast in the Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon or the Tentagraph, or even in the simple pair of hand-wound watches that are, dare we say, made without err.

It’s staggering (in a good way, naturally) to witness how every aspect of a timepiece, from its movement to its design, is carefully crafted to perfection, reflecting the precision-oriented mindset of Japanese artisans. How do they do it?

The Evolution of Japanese Watchmaking

Japanese watchmaking has its origins in the late 19th century when Japan began adopting Western industrial practices and technologies. The first watchmaking companies in Japan were established in the early 1900s, initially focusing on producing pocket watches and simple timepieces for domestic consumption.

The Seiko corporation was one of such companies, whose beginnings in 1881 started when Japanese businessman Kintaro Hattori opened a clock and watch shop in Tokyo. Over the decades, Seiko has become synonymous with precision, quality, and technological advancement.

Then in 1960, the company began offering high-end mechanical watches under the Grand Seiko brand. Their founding years laid the foundation for their reputation as a leader in luxury Japanese watchmaking, renowned for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Nowadays, Japanese watchmaking in the 21st century is characterized by a blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, making Japanese watches highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts the world over. Case in point — Grand Seiko, whose 60 years of heritage has become synonymous with precision, quality, and timeless beauty.

The brand’s dedication to excellence is evident in its advanced movements such as the Hi-Beat and 9S Mechanical, showcasing Japan’s expertise in horological engineering. Grand Seiko’s philosophy of ‘The Nature of Time’ reflects not just technical prowess but also spiritual and cultural values, embodying the essence of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship.

‘Alive in Time through the Five Senses’ Exhibition

This excellence of Japanese skill and expertise was materialized at the immersive ‘Alive in Time through the Five Senses’ exhibition hosted by Grand Seiko Asia Pacific earlier this year. Originally hosted in Tokyo, Japan, last September, this four-day private event showcased not just timepieces but also the art of watchmaking, Japanese culture, and heritage, creating an experience that resonated with all five senses.

The exhibition’s theme, ‘Alive in Time,’ symbolized Grand Seiko’s dynamism and commitment to innovation. Starting with the Sight area, guests were introduced to Grand Seiko’s foundational movements, including the 9S Mechanical, 9R Spring Drive, and 9F Quartz, which came to life through masterful demonstrations through meticulous assembly by master watchmakers.

Next, the Sound area featured the highly acclaimed Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon, offering an auditory journey into the watch’s rhythmic heartbeat, thereafter which was followed by the Touch area, where one could immerse themselves in the tactile experience of Grand Seiko’s timepieces. Finally, the Taste and Smell area concluded the exhibition with a curated culinary experience representing the passage of time and seasonal transitions.

Here, Chef Aeron of Kappou collaborated to create a menu that mirrored the unfolding of Winter into Spring, aligning with Grand Seiko’s theme of living in time.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Ms. Ida Idris-Low, Managing Director of Grand Seiko Asia Pacific, emphasized the exhibition’s significance as a milestone for the brand in the region. “Bringing ‘Alive in Time through the Five Senses’ to this part of the world not only underscores our commitment to our enthusiasts and clients here but we are also thrilled to have provided an immersive experience that celebrates the intricate beauty of our timepieces and intimately connects with each individual’s five senses, inviting them to live in time with us,” she said in a statement.