Seiko has announced the release of a limited-edition model to mark the 50th anniversary of the Credor brand. This model, rooted in Japanese traditional craftsmanship, will be available from October 25th, 2024. Priced at ¥6,600,000 (including tax), only 12 pieces will be available, making it a rare collector’s item.
Introduction to the Credor Goldfeather
The Credor Goldfeather, a revival of Seiko’s ultra-thin mechanical watch lineage, represents the pinnacle of modern dress watches. This new model, with reference number GBBD945, blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship, such as urushi lacquer and intricate metal engraving, to create a timepiece that is as visually stunning as it is technically impressive.
Key Features
The latest Goldfeather model is the first skeleton watch in the series, showcasing the fusion of urushi lacquer art by master artisan Isshu Tamura and the expert engraving techniques honed at the Credor atelier.
Design and Craftsmanship
Inspired by the majestic eagle, the watch’s design embodies the lightness and grace of a feather while incorporating the powerful and dignified imagery of the bird. The watch’s color scheme draws from the eagle’s feathers, featuring a stylish combination of a ruthenium-finished engraved movement and urushi lacquer plates with meticulously applied maki-e (gold and platinum powder inlay).
The urushi lacquer work on the watch is a product of painstaking craftsmanship, where each gold and platinum powder particle is carefully placed by hand to create a precise and detailed depiction of feathers in flight. The crest mark on the dial is created using the high maki-e technique, which requires significant skill and concentration.
Skeleton Movement
The skeleton movement is adorned with beautifully engraved feather patterns on both sides. The engravings are crafted using two techniques: “suji-me” (a soft, textured line) and “kyoumen” (a sharp, polished line), achieved with a specialized tool called a “bite.” This combination gives the watch a soft yet sharp visual contrast, accentuated by the calm, reflective sheen of the silver-gray ruthenium finish.
Ultra-Thin Movement
The watch is powered by the Caliber 6899, a mechanical movement that is only 1.98mm thick. This ultra-thin movement was developed for the highest-grade dress watches, emphasizing both technical performance and artistic beauty. Each watch is meticulously assembled, adjusted, and cased by skilled watchmakers at the Shizukuishi Watch Studio, a premier facility in Japan dedicated to the finest mechanical watches.
Conclusion
The Credor Goldfeather 50th Anniversary model, with reference number GBBD945, stands as a tribute to Seiko’s dedication to combining traditional Japanese craftsmanship with cutting-edge watchmaking technology. Its exquisite design, along with its rarity, makes it a distinguished piece for any serious collector. The intricate craftsmanship, from the urushi lacquer to the ultra-thin skeleton movement, embodies the height of artisanal watchmaking.
