The latest addition to this esteemed collection, the Presage Arita Porcelain 'Concentric,' pays homage to the centuries-old porcelain artistry of Arita, a small town in Kyushu, Japan's third-largest island. Arita has been a prominent name in the world of porcelain since the early 17th century when clay suitable for high-quality porcelain was discovered in the area. Despite a history spanning over 400 years, the traditional craft of Arita porcelain has never stopped evolving, with artisans constantly refining materials and molding techniques.
Arita porcelain, also known as Arita-yaki or Imari-yaki, is renowned for its distinctive milky-white glaze and intricate blue underglaze decorations. The porcelain's unique characteristics stem from the use of a specific type of clay found in the Arita region, which has been utilized in the production of these exquisite ceramics since the early 17th century.
The delicate blue patterns, often depicting nature motifs or geometric designs, are meticulously painted onto the porcelain before the final glaze is applied, resulting in a captivating contrast against the creamy white background. This combination of the milky glaze and vibrant underglaze decorations has become a hallmark of Arita porcelain, showcasing the skilled artistry and attention to detail that has been passed down through generations of craftsmen.
Seiko's Presage Craftsmanship Series is a testament to the brand's commitment to honoring traditional Japanese crafts.
Under a dual-curve sapphire crystal glass, this timepiece features an exquisite Arita porcelain blue-white dial, contrasting with deep blue accented hands and indices – traditional colors of Arita porcelain. The recessed concentric ring pattern around the center, along with the recessed subdial at 6 o'clock, demonstrate expert craftsmanship due to the difficulty of their creation from delicate porcelain.
The Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain 'Concentric' is a testament to the brand's dedication to blending watchmaking prowess with traditional Japanese artistry. By incorporating the exquisite porcelain work of Arita into its design, this timepiece celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Japan while offering a unique and sophisticated addition to any watch enthusiast's collection.