Presage Automatic Sharp Edged “Akebono“ - Ltd Ed 2000pcs Ref. SARX103

Demonstrating exquisite Japanese craftsmanship and a rich heritage of fine mechanical watchmaking, Seiko unveiled their latest GMT offering to the Presage Sharped Edge family of watches, incorporating its signature hemp-leaf textured dial and a beautifully crafted angular case that has become a distinctive hallmark of this enchanting collection. Things get even more exciting underneath its impressive appearance with a full-fledged “true GMT” automatic in-house caliber, truly conjuring up the spirit of adventure for jet set travellers.

Seiko Presage Automatic Sharp Edged “Akebono“ - Ltd Ed 2000pcs Ref. SARX103 / SPB363

The world has come to develop a deep appreciation for Japanese innovations and their incredibly fine craftsmanship. From cars, electronics, and something that we unequivocally love the most; wrist watches. Renowned Japanese watch manufacturer Seiko demonstrated advanced techniques in the fine art of watchmaking since its founding back in 1881, producing exquisite timepieces that went head-to-head with even the Swiss. Since then, Seiko has grown to be an illustrious name associated with watches of remarkable precision, quality and value.

During Baselworld 2016, Seiko announced the Presage collection, a series of sporty dress watches to international markets, bringing to the table a range of premium models that were a significant step up from their entry-level offerings. This captivating line up became a fan-favourite amongst avid watch collectors for their impressive value, premium materials and amazing dial work usually only found in higher-tier Grand Seiko models. Part of Seiko’s Presage collection, the Sharp Edged Series showcases a powerful and fresh interpretation of beautiful Japanese artistry embodied in its unique sharp case designs.

Intricate finishing on the multi faceted case and bracelet

The all new Seiko Presage Sharp Edged “Akebono“ - Ltd Ed 2000pcs Ref. SARX103  indeed looks as sharp as its name suggests, flaunting an incredibly refined 316L stainless steel case in full black, adding some sporty dimensions. Measuring in with a diameter of 39.3mm, a lug to lug distance of 47.2mm and a thickness of 11.1mm, the watch displays a dashing wrist presence while staying pleasantly comfortable on the wrist. As the moniker suggest, the “Akebono” is a Japanese term for when the darkness of night gives way to dawn. Therefore an all-black case paired with a smokey purple dial evoke the whole process.

Executing great case finishings is definitely no stranger to Seiko. On the SARX103, finishing is carried out meticulously to a high level of detail, presenting a polished mirror finish around the bezel and the side of the case, contrasting well with fine satin brushing on the top of the lugs. This excellent choice of finishing produces a lavish charm as the superb mirror polish catches light reflections at various angles. To preserve these brilliant finishes, the case is treated with Seiko’s proprietary super-hard coating for superior protection against scratches.

The attention to detail is carried down to the matching 20mm blackout stainless steel bracelet, displaying a brushed finish with intricate polishing on the edges of the middle link for an alluring multi-dimensional effect. Like the case, the bracelet also features Seiko’s super-hard coating to keep it looking as fresh as ever. Everything about the watch seemingly captures the light without much effort, the bezel is no exception. Lacquered with Seiko’s proprietary DiaShield super-hard coating, the deep black steel bezel exhibits a slick glossy sheen while remaining extremely legible thanks to its contrasting white markers.


Seiko's LumiBrite at its best

Underneath the flat scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the Presage Sharp Edged “Akebono“ - Ltd Ed 2000pcs Ref. SARX103 brings forth a spark of excitement with a stunning gradation purple textured dial, with a bright center framed by a darkening perimeter. The applied LumiBrite-treated rose gold hour indices and sword-style hands are masterfully polished, bringing a radiant beauty to the dial. Besides,  the rose gold hands and indexes represent the morning sun, shining through the sky with the first glimmers of light.

This spectacular dial beautifully incorporates a Japanese Asanoha pattern, a pattern inspired by the hemp plant grown in Japan ever since the Heian period over a thousand years ago. Traditionally used as a material for fabrics, this distinctive pattern holds great significance in Japanese culture symbolizing rapid growth and good health. The geometric pattern aligns seamlessly with the angular nature of the piece while bringing an additional layer of dimension to the dial.

6R35 automatic movement

The SARX103 runs on Seiko’s in-house caliber 6R35 automatic movement, their latest upgrade to the 6R15 movement featuring hacking and hand-winding capabilities. The 24 jewel movement has a beat rate of 21,600 beats per hour with an astounding power reserve of about 70 hours. As a higher-tier offering from the 4R family of movements, this movement features carefully finished Geneva stripes on the rotor seen through the see-through display case back.

There’s just so much to love about this new 2000 pieces limited-edition to the Sharp Edged collection, from the extremely attractive case to the astonishing dial that gorgeously captures traditional Japanese culture. Combining the deep culture and artistry of the Japanese with their finest watchmaking capabilities, the SARX103 is a piece that packs a gorgeous design in an attractive case bearing so much character. It is indeed an amazing limited-edition that expresses the moment when dawn’s early light penetrates the dark of night.

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