King Seiko Mechanical Automatic Burgundy Ref. SDKS009

Since its founding in 1881, Seiko has been a prolific watch manufacturer with a wide array finely-crafted timepieces under several brands and sub-labels. Not only does the Grand Seiko series come to mind when it comes to quality timepieces, the sub-brand named King Seiko also epitomized the excellent Japanese watch manufacturing precision that Seiko was renowned for back in the 1960s. With Taro Tanaka setting Seiko’s watchmaking philosophy, the brand distinguished its watchmaking from the Swiss style. Consequently, Seiko watch cases had to be fashioned without distortion, their bezels kept simple, and the watch hands shaped flat and sharp. The King Seiko collection embodies Seiko’s watchmaking philosophy with finesse and class.That King Seiko is a household name among Seiko’s permanent collection of watches is proof that this series is significant for the Seiko brand as a whole. Today, we welcome the King Seiko collection once again with the new Seiko King Seiko Mechanical Automatic Burgundy Ref. SDKS009.

Seiko King Seiko Mechanical Automatic Burgundy Ref. SDKS009 / SPB287

Firstly, the 37mm sized case of the King Seiko Mechanical is sharp and angular with a height of 12.1mm and the lug-to-lug distance being 43.6mm. Even if a wearer has big wrists, the 37 mm sized case would appear well defined and proportioned. Furthermore, the case is meticulously done with brushed and polished Zaratsu-finishings, resembling the original King Seiko 44-9990. Its faceted lugs have been adapted straight from the 1965 model. The boxed sapphire crystal lends a nostalgic reminiscence of the 1960s. Both the crown and the caseback are completed with the same King Seiko emblem that came with the original one.

Seiko's Caliber 6R31

Impeccable polished indices bedeck the sunburst, yet refreshing burgundy dial of the SDKS009. The workmanship on each markers are skilfully executed that they glow iridescently when reflections take place on them. Similar to the 44-9990, the marker at 12 is twice the width of the rest and boasts a fine pyramid-like pattern on the top surface. Without a date indication, the dial remains clean and balanced. Moreover, the hour and minute hands are flat with a Zaratsu-polished, faceted surface, along with a needle-thin seconds hand.

Unbelievably refined with strikingly defined angles

Besides, this timepiece is outfitted with the in-house caliber 6R31 which is closely linked to the 6R35.With 24 jewels, the 6R31 operates at a frequency of 21,600vph. Such a  movement is accurate to run within +15/-25 seconds per day, just like its dated cousin, the 6R35.

A retro stainless steel multi-link bracelet, very much like the one on the original 1965 model, tops up the vintage feel of the SDKS009. The faceted links from case to folding buckle enjoy a brushed finish with polished bevels. A wearer who wants a full vintage feel swap out an alternative vintage-styled leather strap.

37mm watch size ideally worn with formal attires

Price-wise, the King Seiko Mechanical is priced between the average top-end of Seiko and below Grand Seiko’s entry-level models, packing tremendous value for Enthusiasts.   The combination of a flat dial with faceted indexes and broad, sharp hands give the watch a refined feel with a modern touch. Good job, Seiko! If you want to enjoy the King Seiko philosophy in your upcoming timepiece, this stunner with the sporty burgundy dial would certainly be value for money. Kudos to Seiko bringing back the K.S. line once again!