Meet the new Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Open Heart “Shiro” and “Ao” Watches
Tuesday - 09 May 2023
The new Sharp Edged Open Heart watches from the Presage watch collection by Seiko feature a new dial, case and movement with a three-day power reserve
If you like your Seiko Presage watches with a touch of Grand Seiko flair, you need to check out the new Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Open Heart “Shiro” and “Ao” watches. They feature bold hand and indexes dressed against patterned dials and sit alongside models like the new Presage Style 60s Road Trip GMT watches, which we recently covered in more detail here. The silhouette of the Seiko Presage Sharp Edged series has always had an unmistakable multidimensional aesthetic that compliments the Asanoha texture of their dials. Now the Japanese brand has released two further models with a three-day automatic movement.
The Sharp Edged Series has always been a nice spin on the Presage collection. The models from this line, which launched three years ago, were notable for their refined finishes and intricate techniques that brought a higher end feel to the models. At the same time, the watches promised an affordable price tag that made them all the more appealing. The modest yet classic case was angular and unique looking, giving them the name “Sharp Edged”. Combined with this feature was a texture dial that represented a traditional Japanese technique with hands and indexes that reflect the light beautifully. Over the years, simple time and date variations were joined by GMT models that offered a sportier style, not forgetting power reserve indicator complications too. Another two models were released after this, featuring a section cut out of the dial side that revealed a small part of the movement at work. Now the Seiko Presage Sharp Edged series has grown once again with two open heart iterations. These open heart models reveal the regulator and go by the reference SPB415 and SPB417, offering several updates in the way of the case, dial and movement. Let’s learn a little more…
The hemp leaf pattern – a symbol of good health and growth
Both the Presage ‘Shiro’ Sharp-Edged Open Heart (SPB415J1) and Presage ‘Ao’ Sharp-Edged Open Heart (SPB417J1) measure a diameter of 40.16mm and a height of 13.52mm. Both are also crafted from stainless steel and feature a Super-Hard coating that protects the mechanics inside the watch. Despite an open heart section and 24-hour sub-dial, the new watches are pretty simple in design and boast a captivating Asanoha textured dial – also known as the hemp leaf pattern. The millenary-old motif is often seen on ancient Japanese textiles and is achieved through a unique process that equally echoes the unique layout of both dials. Upon the respective silk (shironeri) and gradient indigo (aitetsu) coloured dial of these models is a set of shard-like hour markers that are faceted and polished for an indulgent finish. LumiBrite material applied to the central hour and minute hands accentuates the sword-like shape of each structure but also facilitates easy timekeeping at night. At the 9 o’clock location you get the exposed movement via a neat circular open heart section, overlapped by a 24-hour sub-dial at 6 o’clock. The open heart section itself also sits underneath a graphic metalized asanoha motif. The geometric edges of the pattern seen in the decoration above the open heart window promotes this special technique that still holds so much significance for Japanese culture today. The hemp leaf is said to bring good fortune and health.
Both the new Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Open Heart watches for 2023 feature some subtle changes to the case. A dual-curved sapphire crystal glass front makes it easy to reference the time without the undesirable affect of glare from the sun or artificial lighting, thanks to an applied anti-reflective treatment. It is the first time that the dual-curved glass has made an appearance on a Sharp Edged watch. The result makes the timepiece appeal more elegant, refined and slimmer. Mirror-finished facets between the top and sides of the case also compliment the brushed panels of the 100-meter water resistant case. In addition to the open heart section on each dial, these new Seiko Presage watches feature an exhibition caseback made from sapphire crystal that shows off the rest of the movement through the rear of the case whilst it performs effortlessly. This includes its beautiful gold-coloured oscillating weight amongst many other features.
The movement at work inside the cases of the new Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Open Heart watches is the Calibre 6R5J which promises an accuracy of -15/+25 seconds per day. What’s more, its power reserve can last up to three days once fully wound. With the addition of a 24-hour scale to keep track of time, the new models combine the sophistication of a well-built movement with the practical and functional features of a robust and well-made daily beater. Without doubt, these new watches from the Sharp Edges series are more than just pretty timepieces to look at.
Whilst the “Shiro” version of the Sharp Edged Seiko Presage watch is perfect for everyday wear thanks to its light shade that lifts the entire design off the wrist, the “Ao” version with its deep entrancing blue hue is a great companion for evening attire yet at the same time, it can make a vibrant statement thanks to its richness. Both models are fitted on a stainless steel bracelet with a three-fold clasp and an easy-to-use push button release. The three-link bracelet with brushed and polished finishes has received the same Super-Hard coating and elevates each timepiece to a dressier feel for both daytime and evening wear.
If you’d like more information on the new Seiko Presage Sharp Edges Open Heart “Ao” or “Shiro” watches, you can call and speak to a member of our sales team at Jura Watches today on 01335 453453, who will be more than happy to provide information on availability and our current online finance options for these models.
