Seiko Reinvents the Watch
By James Grahame
The Seiko Spring Drive mechanism was initially developed in 1977, although
it wasn’t commercialized until 1999. The final result is a beautiful automatic wristwatch with a 72-hour reserve. The watch doesn’t include
a traditional escapement (vibrating mechanism), so the hands move with an
eerily smooth motion. It’s also incredibly accurate, designed to be an order of
magnitude more precise than traditional mechanical designs.
All Spring Drive assembly is performed by a team of 5 expert watchmakers, limiting production to about 1000 units in the first year. Expect to part with around $3500 for one of these hand-made works of art.
Seiko Spring Drive Watches (Seiko)



