Seiko Unveils a Trio Of King Seiko Watches with Textured Dials

Seiko's King Seiko is one of those cult-classic throwbacks that dodges easy categorization or market segmentation. The 1960s elegance and sheer retro vibes exuded by this collection is charming and a little quirky in a world where big brother Grand Seiko has reached downright mainstream status. In 2021, the King Seiko KSK SJE083 resurrected the historic KSK model and was followed up with the non-limited SJE089 and SJE091, both now standard-production models. Now we see three more non-limited edition models that each feature a beautiful textured color dial that is a bit dressier than the fare you may be used to seeing from King Seiko.

The new SJE103, SJE105, and SJE107 all share the same 38.6mm wide and 10.7mm thick stainless steel case with a lug-to-lug measurement of 45.8mm (50 meters of water resistance). Note the design signatures, like those broad, faceted lugs, box sapphire crystal, and extra-wide 12 o’clock indices with textured finish. Finally, there is the seven-link bracelet with brushed surfaces and faceted links that hearkens back to the mid-century glory days. There is also the enclosed caseback with the King Seiko stamp that is a refresh of the original (hey, everything doesn’t need to be true to the vintage pieces, and these look more refined). All three models use the Caliber 6L35 movement which operates at 4Hz and has a 45-hour power reserve.

Now, let’s get to the dials. All three are inspired by Japan's Kameido area, which we have seen depicted in Edo period prints. They also all have applied indices with polished edges and brushed surfaces for some really nice contrast that we expect from higher-end Seiko, whether it be Grand or King. Similarly, the hands also have brushed surfaces and beveled edges.

The SJE103 has a deep red, gradient dial meant to evoke blooming plum blossoms; the SJE105 has a deep blue dial finished with a turtle-shell pattern inspired by the Sumida river; and finally, my personal favorite is the SJE107, which has a very soft purple gradient dial finished with an absolutely beautiful wisteria-flower pattern.

These three new King Seiko watches will be available from October 1 with a price of $3,300 each.