According to reports from Notebookcheck and Europe Says, Seiko has opened pre-orders in Japan for two new Laurel-inspired Presage Classic watches, priced at 179,300 yen (~1,125 USD) for the enamel model HCC005J and 209,000 yen (~1,312 USD) for the urushi model HCC006J. Both timepieces are scheduled for an official release on September 5 through designated Global Brand Core Shops.
How Seiko’s Presage Classic Laurel-Inspired Models Differ in Price and Craftsmanship
The 29,700 yen price gap (nära 186 dollar) separates two distinct artisan dials and case treatments, as detailed by Notebookcheck. The HCC005J features a traditional white enamel dial outfitted with Breguet-style numerals, a distinct red 12, and blued hands housed in a stainless steel case. In contrast, the HCC006J employs a black urushi-lacquered dial accented by hand-painted Kaga Maki-e gold numerals and sits within a gold-colored case treated with a super-hard coating.
Neither model is a limited edition, according to the available product specifications. However, physical retail distribution is restricted strictly to Seikos Global Brand Core Shops within Japan. Notebookcheck notes that the official web store is geoblocked for domestic delivery only, leaving international buyers waiting for a broader global rollout.
Technical Specifications of Caliber 6R5H and Dial Details
Beneath the artisanal dials, both the HCC005J and HCC006J share identical physical dimensions and mechanical internals. According to Notebookcheck, the watches measure 39.6 mm in diameter, 12.4 mm in thickness, and 46.8 mm from lug to lug, with 20 mm lug widths. They feature double-curved sapphire crystals, exhibition case backs, and brown leather straps secured by a three-fold clasp.
The movement driving these models is Seiko’s caliber 6R5H. It delivers a 72-hour power reserve, operates with 24 jewels, and maintains an accuracy rating of +25 to -15 seconds per day. A notable visual detail is the sub-dial positioned at the six o’clock mark; while it visually mimics the small seconds layout of the historical 1913 Laurel, Notebookcheck clarifies that it actually functions as a 24-hour indicator since caliber 6R5H lacks a true small seconds configuration. Furthermore, Seiko lists both references as splash-resistant rather than providing a formal water-resistance rating, a common trait for delicate hand-finished dials in this price bracket.
Did you know? The 1913 Laurel was Seiko’s—and Japan’s—very first wristwatch, making these modern Presage Classic interpretations a direct nod to the company’s horological origins.
Comparing the 2024 Laurel-Inspired Pairs with Future Silk-Inspired Presage Releases
Europe Says reports that Seiko has also unveiled an entirely separate quartet of Presage Classic models inspired by silk artistry, slated for a July 2026 launch. These upcoming references—HCC001J (“Shironeri” white dial), HCC002J (bamboo green dial), and HCC003J (cherry blossom pink dial)—feature slightly smaller stainless steel cases at 38.0 mm in diameter and 12.9 mm in thickness, equipped with Diashield-coated steel or leather straps and a robust 10-bar water resistance rating.
Unlike the geoblocked, splash-resistant Laurel pair running on the 24-hour caliber 6R5H, the silk-themed collection utilizes the caliber 6R51 automatic movement and carries a standard 100-meter water resistance rating. Additionally, the silk line includes a globally limited reference, the HCC008 (sold in Japan as HCC010J), which is restricted to a limited number of pieces worldwide with some reserved for the domestic Japanese market, contrasting sharply with the unlimited production run of the enamel HCC005J and urushi HCC006J.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Seiko Presage Classic HCC005J and HCC006J be released?
According to Notebookcheck, both models release on September 5 in Japan.
Are the new enamel and urushi Laurel-inspired watches limited editions?
No, neither the HCC005J nor the HCC006J is a limited edition, though availability is currently restricted to Japanese Global Brand Core Shops.
What movement powers the HCC005J and HCC006J?
Both watches utilize Seiko’s caliber 6R5H automatic movement, offering a 72-hour power reserve and a 24-hour sub-dial at the six o’clock position.
Can international buyers purchase these models online right now?
No, the official Japanese web store is geoblocked and only ships domestically within Japan, meaning overseas collectors must await a wider international release.
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