Seiko Presage Craftsmanship: Two Dials Inspired By The Laurel

Seiko introduces two new Classic Series “Craftsmanship” models that celebrate Japanese artistry through white enamel and black urushi lacquer dials inspired by the Laurel, Japan’s first wristwatch.

The new Seiko Presage Craftsmanship Enamel Dial HCC005 and Urushi Lacquer Dial HCC006 continue a story that began in 1913, when Seiko created the Laurel. The historic watch remains an important reference point for Seiko’s approach to mechanical watchmaking, combining technical precision with distinctive expressions of Japanese culture.

Both new models bring traditional dial-making techniques into watches designed for everyday wear. Their dials are shaped and finished by hand, allowing each material to express its own texture, depth and character.

The two models will be available as continuous-production watches from Seiko Boutiques and selected retailers worldwide from September 2026.

The Laurel’s Enduring Influence

Seiko’s history in wristwatches began with the Laurel in 1913. As Japan’s first wristwatch, it represented an important step in the development of the country’s watchmaking industry.

More than a century later, the Laurel continues to influence Seiko’s approach to design and mechanical watchmaking. Its clean dial layout, Arabic numerals and restrained proportions remain visible in the new HCC005 and HCC006 models.

The Laurel has also been recognised as an example of “Mechanical Engineering Heritage” by the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers, reinforcing its importance within Japan’s industrial and horological history.

The new watches interpret the Laurel through two traditional Japanese crafts: enamel and urushi lacquer.

The Craftsmanship Series

The Presage Classic Series “Craftsmanship” line focuses on traditional Japanese techniques and the role of the artisan in mechanical watchmaking.

Rather than treating the dial as a simple surface, Seiko uses it as the central expression of each watch. The materials are shaped through processes that require patience, precision and an ability to respond to changing conditions.

The new HCC005 and HCC006 models reflect this philosophy in two very different ways. The enamel version creates a pristine white surface with strong links to the original Laurel, while the urushi model uses deep black lacquer, gold-coloured details and layered texture to express a richer and more dramatic character.

HCC005: A White Enamel Laurel Dial

The HCC005 features a white enamel dial inspired directly by the design of the Laurel.

Its Arabic numerals use an original typeface that balances elegance with legibility. The red “12” is one of the most recognisable details of the original Laurel and returns here as a subtle but striking accent against the clean white background.

The use of enamel is equally important. Known for its enduring beauty and resistance to fading, enamel can preserve its colour and appearance for generations when properly crafted.

The dial is made by master artisan Mitsuru Yokosawa and Kazunori Uchiyama, who refined his skills under Yokosawa’s guidance. Their combined expertise produces the dial’s smooth white surface and precise detailing.

Creating an enamel dial requires a high level of adaptability. The composition of the glaze must be adjusted according to changes in temperature and humidity, while the firing process demands precise control.

Small variations in the production environment can affect the result, making each stage of the process dependent on the artisan’s experience and judgement.

HCC006: The Laurel In Urushi Lacquer

The HCC006 presents the Laurel design through the traditional Japanese art of urushi lacquer for the first time in this configuration.

The deep black lacquer dial creates a strong contrast with the gold-coloured accents used across the dial. The result is a refined and dimensional appearance that gives the watch a more dramatic expression than the white enamel model.

The hands and indexes feature rich texture and depth, harmonising with both the original Laurel design and the expressive quality of urushi lacquer.

Urushi is made from the sap of the lacquer tree and has been used in Japanese culture for centuries. The technique is valued for its deep lustre, rich colour and long-lasting durability.

The dial is created through repeated applications of lacquer, followed by hand-polishing. Each layer contributes to the depth and strength of the final surface, with the material becoming stronger as time passes.

Under the supervision of urushi lacquer master Isshu Tamura, the dials are meticulously crafted by Toshikazu Tsuji, his daughter Mitsuki Tsuji and their team.

Mitsuki Tsuji’s work is rooted in the Echizen urushi lacquer tradition, one of Japan’s oldest lacquerware traditions. Through her studies with Kanazawa-based master Isshu Tamura, she is expanding the scope of her craft and bringing it into a contemporary watchmaking context.

Faithful Design, Modern Technology

Both models use the latest case design from the Presage Classic Series “Craftsmanship” line. The case has been designed to enhance the depth and dimensionality of the enamel and urushi lacquer dials while preserving the understated elegance associated with the collection.

A dual-curved sapphire crystal protects each dial and contributes to the watches’ clean, refined profile. The inner surface receives an anti-reflective coating to improve legibility in changing light conditions.

The HCC005 features a stainless-steel case with a super-hard coating, while the HCC006 uses a stainless-steel case with yellow-gold-coloured plating. The contrasting finishes underline the different personalities of the two models.

Both watches measure 39.6mm in diameter and 12.4mm in thickness. They are fitted with leather straps and three-fold clasps with push-button release.

Calibre 6R5H

Inside both watches is Seiko’s automatic Calibre 6R5H. The movement is powered by the movement of the wearer’s wrist and can also be wound manually through the crown.

Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, or 3 Hz, the calibre offers approximately 72 hours of power reserve. This gives the watches enough autonomy to continue running through a full weekend when not worn.

The movement contains 24 jewels and is visible through the see-through screw case back.

The watches offer 3 bar water resistance and magnetic resistance of 4,800 A/m. Their design is intended primarily for everyday wear, with the emphasis placed on the crafted dials, balanced case proportions and mechanical character.

Leather With A More Responsible Approach

The leather straps are made from leather sourced from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group.

The Leather Working Group is a non-profit organisation focused on responsible and sustainable leather production. Seiko is a member of the organisation and aims to increase the percentage of its leather straps made with leather from LWG-certified tanneries to more than 90% in the future.

This approach forms part of Seiko’s broader efforts to support the preservation of horological culture, technical knowledge and specialised craftsmanship for future generations.

Technical Specifications

Pricing And Availability

The Seiko Presage Classic Series “Craftsmanship” Enamel Dial HCC005 and Urushi Lacquer Dial HCC006 will be available from September 2026.

Both watches will be offered as continuous-production models through Seiko Boutiques and selected retail stores worldwide.

The HCC005 will have a recommended retail price of €1,430, while the HCC006 will be priced at €1,640.

Conclusion

The new Seiko Presage Classic Series “Craftsmanship” models HCC005 and HCC006 demonstrate how traditional Japanese techniques can continue to evolve through mechanical watchmaking.

The white enamel HCC005 remains closely connected to the original Laurel through its Arabic numerals, red “12” and clean dial design. The black urushi lacquer HCC006 presents a more dramatic interpretation, using layered lacquer, gold-coloured details and deep texture to express the richness of the craft.

Both watches are powered by the practical Calibre 6R5H, offering 72 hours of power reserve, while their handcrafted dials place Japanese artistry at the centre of the design.

Together, the two models show how specialised techniques can be preserved not by remaining unchanged, but by finding new relevance in objects designed for contemporary daily life.

For more information, please visit the official Seiko website.

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