Leica Q2
As the year draws to a close, this humble online magazine is also preparing to celebrate its first anniversary. Throughout this year I’ve had the privilege of handling numerous watches, photographing them and freely writing about them.
Well, the new Seiko Samurai models were still in the pipeline and after attending the Geneva Watch Days it’s time to reflect on some thoughts about these new Japanese warriors.
Mental note to self: Seiko should have been at the Geneva Watch Days.
Details captured using a metallic reflector
Details captured using a metallic reflector
The Seiko Samurai line was born in 2004 with three titanium models, followed by steel versions for the international market. In the years that followed, it disappeared, only to return with a redesigned look in 2017, and since then, it has been a fixture in the brand's catalog.
There, history sorted.
The Samurai collection is a special case among Seiko’s divers. With its angular and aggressive design, it’s a visually powerful watch, contrasting with the soft, rounded shapes of the Turtle line, which had already become iconic by the time the Samurai appeared.
Details captured using a metallic reflector, luminova enhanced
Details captured using a metallic reflector
What’s interesting is how quickly the Samurai established itself as a Seiko icon, somewhat polarizing enthusiasts between those who prefer the smoothness of the Turtle and those drawn to the sharp-edged Samurai. This suggests the design was spot-on from the beginning.
Twenty years after its debut, Seiko has released the newly redesigned Seiko Samurai in three versions: the SRPL11 with a red dial, the SRPL13 with a black dial, and the SRPL15 with a black-coated case. I had the chance to handle and photograph the first two models.
In the water with blue food colouring
In the water with blue food colouring
The watch’s volume is entirely different, housed in a fully redesigned case, with the most notable change being the reduction in diameter from 43.8mm to 41.7mm and 12,3 thick. However other details such as the shorter lugs, the softer crown guards, and the new design of the bezel insert, now make me realize that this evolution was indeed necessary for the model.
Nautical rope
Nautical rope, luminova shot
Nautical rope
Nautical rope, luminova shot
The Samurai’s design codes are still there but refined and reimagined to make the watch even more appealing for daily wear and to attract a broader audience. The Samurai has re-emerged after 20 years, lighter and more contemporary.
Leica Q2 shallow depth of field
Leica Q2 shallow depth of field
Luminova image, 30 seconds exposure with three light bursts freezing the hands of the watch.
To conclude, I have some good news for all Seiko enthusiasts and watch lovers in general. On November 9th, Seiko Portugal and David Rosas will host an open house event in Gaia at the Watch Garage/Atelier do Relógio. This is a great opportunity to participate in this "Watch Affair," get hands-on with watches from various collections and share ideas with fellow enthusiasts.
Stay tuned.
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Seiko Prospex Samurai SRPL11K1 - Burgundy dial
Seiko Prospex Samurai SRPL13K1 - Black dial
• Ø 41,7 x 12,3mm
• Calibre 4R35
• Automatic with manual winding
• Power reserve of 41 hours
• Unidirectional rotating bezel
• Screw-down crown
• Three-fold clasp with secure lock
• Screw case back
• Water resistance of 200 meters
• 695€
