Seiko Presage Classic Series Adds Two 1913 Laurel-Inspired Watches With Enamel and Urushi Dials
Seiko is celebrating one of the most important chapters in its watchmaking history with two new Presage Classic Series models inspired by the Laurel, the brand’s first wristwatch from 1913 and widely recognized as Japan’s first wristwatch. The new Seiko Presage HCC005 and HCC006 are set to arrive in September, bringing traditional Japanese craftsmanship, vintage styling, and modern mechanical watchmaking into one elegant package.
Although both watches look back to the same historic model, they take very different approaches in design and finishing.
The Seiko Presage HCC005 is the more faithful tribute to the original Laurel. It features a clean white enamel dial, Breguet-style numerals, a distinctive red “12,” and blued hands. The red 12 is a charming vintage-inspired detail that immediately gives the watch a historic feel, while the enamel dial adds depth and warmth that standard painted dials often struggle to match. The stainless steel case is treated with Seiko’s super-hard coating, helping improve resistance to everyday scratches.
The Seiko Presage HCC006 offers a more dramatic interpretation. Instead of white enamel, it uses a black urushi lacquer dial, giving the watch a rich, glossy appearance. The numerals are finished in gold using Kaga Maki-e, a traditional decorative technique associated with Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Since the urushi lacquer is applied by hand, each dial may show subtle individual differences, making every piece feel slightly unique. Its gold-tone case further enhances the warm, refined character of the design.
One interesting detail sits at six o’clock. At first glance, the sub-dial may look like a small-seconds display, similar to the layout of the original Laurel. However, it is actually a 24-hour indicator. This is because the 6R5H automatic movement used inside these models does not include a small-seconds configuration. As a result, the sub-dial serves more as a visual nod to the historic design rather than a direct functional recreation.
Both watches share the same case dimensions and core specifications. Each model measures 39.6 mm in diameter, 12.4 mm thick, and 46.8 mm from lug to lug, with a 20 mm lug width. The watches come fitted with cow leather straps and three-fold clasps, supporting the vintage dress-watch aesthetic. A dual-curved sapphire crystal protects the dial, while the transparent caseback reveals the automatic movement inside.
The 6R5H caliber offers 24 jewels, a 72-hour power reserve, and an accuracy rating of +25 to -15 seconds per day. That three-day power reserve makes the watches practical for regular wear, especially for collectors who rotate between several timepieces.
One unexpected point is the listed water resistance. Instead of a specific depth rating, Seiko describes both models as splash resistant. That means these watches are best treated as elegant daily or dress pieces rather than all-purpose sports watches.
In the UK, the Seiko Presage HCC005 with the white enamel dial is priced at £1,250, while the Seiko Presage HCC006 with the black urushi lacquer dial is priced at £1,400. Neither model is being released as a limited edition, which should make them easier to purchase compared with many special Presage launches.
With their Laurel-inspired design, handcrafted dial options, and refined mechanical specifications, the new Seiko Presage HCC005 and HCC006 offer a thoughtful blend of Japanese heritage and modern watchmaking. For collectors who appreciate enamel, urushi lacquer, vintage styling, and Seiko’s long wristwatch history, these two models are likely to be among the standout Presage releases of the year.
