Presage Sharp Edged Open Heart Aisumi Blue Ref. SARX099

Seiko has grown into a well-respected brand whose watches have been enjoyed by many since its founding in 1881. The brand is an undisputed king of watchmaking from its first mechanical watch in 1913 to the 2014 prize at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) for its hi-beat calibre. In recent years, Seiko has worked hard to streamline its offerings. The Prospex and Presage lines have become more defined and stand on their own capably. Today’s new release is part of the latter. Let us take a closer look.

Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Open Heart Aisumi Blue Ref. SARX099 / SPB311

This new SARX099 is part of Seiko's Sharp Edged collection, first released in 2020. The Seiko Presage range was introduced in 2016 and is an all-mechanical series to showcase the refined and elegant side of Seiko - no matter the price point. Seiko’s prowess as a watchmaker can be observed and admired from the entry-level Presage Cocktail Time to higher-end enamel and porcelain dial Presages. 

Since its creation just two years ago, the Presage Sharp Edged series has quickly established its place in the world of fine watches for its combination of traditional mechanical watchmaking with a distinctively modern Japanese style. It offers the refinement of traditional Japanese aesthetics with strong, angular case designs. For 2022, the collection expands with new watches, each of which brings a unique aspect of Seiko’s mechanical watchmaking to the fore and offers a new perspective on the culture of Japan. 

Intricate finishing on the multi faceted case and bracelet

The new Open Heart Aisumi Blue is made of 316L stainless steel, featuring a mixture of brushed and polished finishing. The steel is also treated with a super-hard coating, increasing its resistance to scratches. It has a 40.2mm diameter, a height of 11.8mm, and a lug-to-lug of around 47mm. This set of perfect dimensions will ensure that the watch looks good on almost any wrist size. 

As the name suggests, this new Sharp Edged timepiece has an open heart at nine, deftly showcasing the oscillating balance wheel and the moving escapement. The dial features a deep indigo blue colour, showcasing sensitivity and elegance. The Asanoha hemp-leaf pattern on the dial is broken up by a raised wing, separating the inner section from the section for the applied indices. Gold-coloured leaf hands are used here, with matching gold-coloured baton indices applied throughout. The mix of blue and gold elevates the watch up a notch, making it look far more expensive than its price tag. 

Seiko's LumiBrite at its best

A sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating is affixed atop the dial, aiding in scratch resistance and dial legibility in harsh lighting conditions. The push-pull crown and screw-down caseback give the watch 100m of water resistance - you can even take this dress watch for a swim! What’s more, Lumibrite is also present on the hands and indices, allowing you to read the time easily, even in the dark. Impressive.  

The watch has an exhibition caseback, showcasing the new 6R38 in-house movement. The 6R38 movement has 24 jewels, beats at 21,600 BPH, and has an impressive 70-hour power reserve. While it is a new movement, you can be assured that it will be robust and reliable as it is part of Seiko’s 6R series of movements that have been in use for decades. 

6R38 automatic movement

Seiko pairs the SARX099 on a matching 20mm dark brown calf leather strap. The strap gently tapers to a signed Seiko buckle and complements the watch case perfectly. It is also soft and supple, which will provide a comfortable wearing experience on the wrist.

The latest addition to Seiko’s popular Sharp Edged series will undoubtedly prove just as popular as its predecessors. The timepiece is packed with modern specifications, a brand new movement, and a beautiful open heart design, making it a watch not to be missed.