SpotlightSeiko’s Gilded Glory: Introducing The Credor 50th Anniversary Eichi II Limited Edition

Seiko’s Credor collection has always been celebrated for timepieces that exude an exquisite blend of Japanese design and masterful watchmaking. Its French namesake, ‘crête d’or’ or ‘crest of gold’, embodies the pinnacle of horological artistry. Since its establishment in 1974, each creation bearing the Credor name showcases unparalleled craftsmanship and Japanese ingenuity. And this year, as the Credor line celebrates its 50th anniversary, Seiko have unveiled a special edition of the renowned Eichi II timepiece. Drawing inspiration from the original Eichi introduced in 2008, this latest timepiece reflects the timeless elegance and simplicity that have defined the Credor legacy.

Earning global acclaim for its elegant simplicity, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology, the Eichi II epitomises these exceptional qualities. In honour of its milestone anniversary, the commemorative timepiece debuts in a befitting 39mm 18-karat yellow-gold case—a first for the collection. Adorned with a dual-curved sapphire crystal featuring anti-reflective coating on its inner surface, the new model graces the wrist in an exquisite fashion. Its deep blue porcelain dial, known as ‘ruri’ in Japanese, evokes the rich hues of lapis lazuli. Crafted with meticulous attention, the dial’s gentle curves create a subtly domed surface through the application of porcelain glaze. This unique technique not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also offers wearers a mesmerising play of colours, influenced by viewing angles and ambient light conditions.

Sitting elegantly on the beautiful blue dial are hand-painted hour markers, the Credor logo at the twelve 0’ clock position and the Credor letters

Gracing the captivating blue dial are meticulously hand-painted hour markers, adorned with the iconic Credor logo positioned at 12 o’clock, along with the distinguished Credor lettering. These intricate details are masterfully executed by skilled artisans at the esteemed Micro Artist Studio in Japan. Following the firing process, a delicate touch of gold is meticulously applied over the hand-painted elements, imparting a rich, multi-dimensional allure to the dial. This technique pays homage to the esteemed ‘Ruri-Kinsai’ tradition, a revered yet rare form of craftsmanship that gained prominence during the Edo period. Inspired by this tradition, gold is delicately overglazed onto ruri-coloured materials, such as porcelain, exemplifying a fusion of heritage and innovation.

Working within the elegant piece of watchmaking is the manual-winding Spring Drive Calibre 7R14. Through the sapphire caseback, one can view the movement’s barrel featuring the bellflower—the symbol of Shiojiri City, where the Micro Artist Studio is located. The two bridges are carefully finished by hand, with shiny edges that catch your eye while the power reserve indicator and screws are coloured by hand in a bright blue shade. The movement features the Torque Return System, which delivers a power reserve of 60 hours but what exactly is it? The Torque Return System is a feature designed to optimise the efficiency of the watch’s mainspring. In a traditional movement, when the mainspring is fully wound and generating its maximum torque, approximately 30 percent of this energy is surplus and is not required to maintain the watch’s accuracy. In conventional movements, this excess energy is essentially wasted.

The Credor 50th Anniversary Eichi II Limited Edition will be released as a highly exclusive series of only 30 pieces.