Ambassador Stores: Traditionally Crafted, Technologically Superior
by BTM
Tue, 28 January 2020
Seiko’s Presage collection is an example of fine watchmaking inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
The Presage range of Japanese megabrand, Seiko Watches, combines an Oriental aesthetic sense with traditional craftsmanship, along with Seiko’s mechanical watchmaking skills in an original collection that offers Japanese beauty, quality and long-lasting performance.
The inspiration for each series of Presage comes from a different aspect of Japan, from traditional culture to engineering craftsmanship, and from fine art to industrial design. In shaping Presage, Seiko collaborates with craftsmen and women in all these fields and integrates classic designs, artisans’ techniques and uses advanced technology to create a unique collection of fine mechanical watches.
What is special about the collection, is the dials of the watches, made out of Arita porcelain. Arita, a small town in the southwest of Japan, came to prominence in the early 17th century when clay suitable for porcelain manufacture was discovered there and its porcelain products soon became renowned for the high quality of their artistry. Soon, the porcelain, also known as ‘Imari ware’, after the port from which most of it was shipped, became known across the world.
Arita porcelain was therefore a natural choice for the dials of a Seiko Presage collection. The heritage of this porcelain is respected in the colour of the dials, white with a trace of blue, which was the colour of the earliest Arita porcelain. The dials, which are made in Arita itself, have the rich texture and depth which is the signature of the finest porcelain.
A new type of Arita porcelain material, created just three years ago, is more than four times harder than the usual material and has both the strength and flexibility required for a Seiko Presage watch dial.
The production of the dials involves a challenging combination of skill, patience and artistry. First, the base material is put into a special mould which gives dials depth. They are then dried and fired for the first time at 1,300 degrees to harden and whiten the material. After glazing by hand, the dials are fired again, this time cementing the glaze on to the dial, a process which gives the dials their deep, rich finish and the subtle blue tinge. Next, the holes for the date window and hands are cut by laser. Finally, the dials are then fired again to render smooth the surfaces that have been cut.
The Presage series comprises two interpretations of the design, both of which are powered by Seiko’s high performance 6R series calibers.
The crystal glass is a dual-curved sapphire, the exhibition case back reveals the fine finishing of the 6R movements and both versions are 10 bar water resistant. Straps are crocodile leather.
Ambassador Stores, Bahrain, showcases high-end brands like Yamaha, Audio Technica, Shure, Hercules, Proel, etc. and is the sole distributor of Seiko and Alba watches in the Kingdom. Ambassador Stores has been offering its discerning customers in Bahrain the best brands in musical instruments, high quality home entertainment systems, elegant and much desired watches and clocks and the very latest high-tech gadgets and accessories.
To take advantage of attractive deals and offers, visit Ambassador Stores located near Bab Al Bahrain, Manama.
Call 17 225-513.
