Fantasy made real. A new creation from Presage captures the nostalgia of a Japanese animation masterwork.
Ever
since its birth, the Presage collection has been renowned for its unique
balance of beauty and technology, combining its fine watchmaking technology
with Japanese craftsmanship and art forms. Today, Seiko introduces into the
Presage collection a creation inspired by the now-classic fantasy-adventure
Japanese animation film “Castle In The Sky.” This is the first animation
feature from the world-renowned Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli,
whose works have won the favor of animation fans worldwide for their
imaginative, other-worldly settings, distinctive visuals and masterful
storytelling.
The spirit of the animation is reflected in every aspect of the design.
The
widely acclaimed feature film follows the adventure of a young boy and girl in
search of a legendary floating city named Laputa. Throughout their journey, the
two are chased by air pirates and military agents seeking to seize the city’s
treasures and powers and the heroine’s magical levitation crystal.
Laputa,
the city among the skies.
The
watch captures many of the key elements of the animation in every corner of its
design. The crest on the mystical levitation crystal of the heroine’s pendant
is reproduced on the enamel dial, made by master craftsman Mitsuru
Yokosawa and his colleagues, while the castle in the sky is illustrated on the
caseback just the way it was in the picture taken by the protagonist’s father
when he caught sight of the city. Around the castle are engraved the words of
the chant that is central to the story. The roman numerals, inner ring, retro
hands and stitched leather strap complete the nostalgic atmosphere of this
magical and evocative limited edition.
Every
corner of the watch hints at key aspects of the film. Even the watch
strap’s back bears the inscription on the keystone found in the floating
castle.
A new version of the 6R35 movement joins the 6R Caliber series.
The
watch is powered by a new version of Seiko’s high-performance 6R35 movement,
Caliber 6R31. Like Caliber 6R35, the movement delivers a power reserve of 70
hours and shares the same performance attributes, but without a date window.
Every
aspect of the watch reflects the care and craftsmanship for which Presage is
renowned. The crystal glass is a dual-curved sapphire and is treated with
anti-reflective coating on the inner surface that delivers high legibility from
any angle. The exhibition case back reveals the fine finishing of the movement,
and the watch is 10 bar water resistant.
The
watch will be available as a limited edition of 1,200 at the Seiko Boutiques
and selected retailers worldwide in July 2021.
The watch is offered in a special presentation box with an illustration
of Laputa and carries a card message from the film’s director, Hayao Miyazaki.
The key chant to the story, “Leetay Latuparita Ulus Aria Los Balu Netoreel“ or “save me and revive the eternal light” in the Laputan language, is inscribed on the caseback.
Seiko Presage Studio Ghibli Castle In The Sky Collaboration Limited Edition
SPB215
Caliber 6R31
Vibrations: 21,600 vibrations per hour (6 beats per second)
Power reserve: 70 hours
Number of jewels: 24
Specifications
Stainless steel case
Enamel dial
Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
See-through screw case back
Diameter: 40.5mm, Thickness: 12.4mm
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Cordovan strap with three-fold clasp with push button release
Approximate recommended retail price in Europe: €1,500
* This article was originally published here
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