Seiko has announced the third wave of limited-edition timepieces for its ongoing 145-year anniversary program, breaking from traditional brand palettes to introduce Edo purple across six distinct models launching in October, according to official brand announcements. Following earlier releases featuring gold accents in February and signature blue tones in May, this latest collection draws direct inspiration from a hue widely popular in historical Tokyo apparel during the Edo period.
Astron and Prospex Flagship Models Lead the Lineup
The Astron HAB011J1 stands as the most exclusive release in the anniversary series, limited to just 2,000 units, according to Seiko specifications. Powered by the GPS solar dual-time caliber 5X83, the watch features a 43.3mm titanium case paired with a mixed ceramic and titanium bezel, alongside a horizontally grooved dial sporting a striking gradient finish. Japanese pricing for the Astron HAB011J1 is set at 330,000 JPY including tax, with an official market debut scheduled for October 9.
Alongside the Astron, Seiko is rolling out two Prospex additions: the Speedtimer HBJ005P1 and the Alpinist HBC006J1. The Prospex Speedtimer HBJ005P1 functions as a solar-powered chronograph driven by the V192 caliber, measuring 41.4mm wide and 13mm thick. It incorporates a dual-tone aluminum tachymeter ring styled after 1960s and 1970s archive pieces, with an 8,000-piece production run priced at 111,100 JPY. Meanwhile, the Prospex Alpinist HBC006J1 retains its signature rotating compass ring and 20-bar water resistance inside a 39.5mm case. Fitted with a leather strap and powered by the 72-hour power reserve 6R55 caliber, the Alpinist is limited to 7,000 units at a price of 130,900 JPY.
Presage Cocktail Time and Seiko 5 Sports Expansions
The Presage Cocktail Time HCB006J1 brings the Edo purple theme directly to the wrist via a radial dial designed to mimic Edo Murasaki. This specific purple cocktail was custom-ordered by Seiko from Hisashi Kishi, who serves as the head bartender at STAR BAR in Ginza. The watch measures 40.5mm across, houses the 4R34 caliber with a dedicated 24-hour hand, and is restricted to 6,000 pieces priced at 80,300 JPY, as reported by Seiko.
Rounding out the mechanical core of the collection, the Seiko 5 Sports HDB003K1 represents the largest production run in the series at 9,999 pieces. It utilizes the familiar 42.5mm SKX case architecture and houses the 4R36 automatic movement. Set on a three-row metal bracelet featuring a subtle gold-colored Seiko 5 logo, it carries the most accessible price tag in the group at 63,800 JPY.
Rotocall Revival and Collection Availability
While King Seiko models were included in both prior anniversary waves, the luxury line is noticeably absent from this third release, according to brand documentation. Instead, Seiko has expanded the October lineup with a sixth timepiece: a digital Seiko Selection based on the 1982 Rotocall. Unlike the other five watches in the series, which simply apply the new Edo purple colorway to existing contemporary platforms, the Rotocall revival resurrects a discontinued archival design.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Seiko 145th Anniversary Edo Purple collection be released?
The collection launches in Japan on October 9, according to Seiko announcements.
How many pieces of each model are being produced?
Production runs vary by model: the Astron HAB011J1 is limited to 2,000 units, the Prospex Speedtimer to 8,000, the Alpinist to 7,000, the Presage Cocktail Time to 6,000, and the Seiko 5 Sports to 9,999.
What movements power these anniversary watches?
The lineup uses a mix of movements, including the GPS solar caliber 5X83 for the Astron, the solar V192 for the Speedtimer, the 6R55 automatic for the Alpinist, the 4R34 for the Presage, and the 4R36 automatic for the Seiko 5 Sports.
Are international prices confirmed?
As of the initial announcement, Seiko has only published Japanese domestic market pricing inclusive of tax, ranging from 63,800 JPY to 330,000 JPY.
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