Seiko has teamed up with Japanese watch retailer TiCTAC once again, and this time they’ve gone for a vintage vibe. The new Japan-only limited-edition HZB002J comes with a creamy off-white dial, old-school detailing, and the sort of understated design that looks like it could have been plucked straight from a watch collector’s archive. The two Japanese brands have been collaborating since 2019, producing a series of mechanical watches that combine the practicality of everyday timepieces with the charm of vintage designs.
And their latest is no exception. Rather than opting for a bright white dial, Seiko has gone for a warmer, creamier shade that changes slightly depending on how the light catches it. The hour markers are filled with faux-aged luminous paint, giving them the appearance of the patina you’d find on a much older watch.
Black cathedral-style hands, similar to those found on Seiko’s beloved Alpinist, add to the retro feel, while the Arabic numerals at 6 and 12 keep things classy and simple. At 40mm, the stainless steel case is a comfortable everyday size, with polished sides, brushed lugs, and a curved Hardlex crystal. It also comes on a three-link stainless steel bracelet, although drilled lug holes make it easy to swap in a leather strap if you fancy leaning even further into the vintage look.
Inside, there's Seiko's automatic 4R35 movement, which offers a 41-hour power reserve and can be admired through the transparent case back. It's also water-resistant to 100 meters, so despite its rather delicate-looking dial, this is a watch designed to be worn rather than kept in a box. And perhaps the best bit?
The HZB002J launches in Japan on October 24 for ¥55,000, roughly $350. It's a Japan-only release, but international buyers can still get their hands on one through TiCTAC's overseas shipping service, WorldShopping. So, if you've been after something with a bit of vintage charm but don't particularly fancy paying vintage collector prices, this might be one worth looking into.
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