Seiko’s newest Presage watches are perfect for cocktail hour

Made using delicate Japanese mechanical watchmaking craftsmanship, the Seiko Presage collection (nicknamed ‘Cocktail Time’) has remained a favourite of Seiko lovers since its debut at Baselworld in 2016. This season, the Japanese watchmaker has introduced another brand-new addition to this mechanical watch collection — the Presage SSA343J1 automatic — bringing the subtle yet attractive cocktail-inspired aesthetic to your wrist.

With a case that’s 40.5mm in diameter and 14.5mm in thickness, the Presage SSA343J1 automatic features a sunburst dial — a design signature of the Presage collection — with radial patterns that are achieved using seven layers of coating, box-shaped crystals and 3D hands and time markers designed to resemble the stems of cocktail glasses, and to add a glossy and nostalgic flair. Thanks to the 4R57 calibre, there’s also an additional date sub-dial, as well as a power reserve indicator that runs from 12 o’clock to 4 o’clock.

Apart from the 41 hours of maximum power reserve, the 4R57 — which can be viewed through the see-through case back — also brings together other advanced mechanical watchmaking technology such as the Magic Lever, as well as the unique and highly durable Spron alloys that are used in the springs and the Diashock protection system.

For a more streamlined appearance, there’s also the Presage SRPB43J1 automatic which loses the power reserve indicator — the reserve is the same, at 41 hours — and trades the date sub-dial for a date window. The remaining design elements are identical, including an elegantly fluted crown.

Both watches include a black calf’s leather strap with contrasting blue stitching that is dressy but not overly formal, so gentlemen can wear it for all occasions from day to night, whether it’s to the office or parties — and cocktail hour, of course.