As its collection of decorative, high-end timepieces reaches its fifth decade, Seiko commemorates the occasion with the Credor 50th Anniversary Eichi II (ref. GBLT996) for the occasion. Limited to just 30 watches, this is the very first Eichi in yellow gold.

The anniversary edition features a deep blue, ruri porcelain dial and the hand-finished Spring Drive cal. 7R14 inside. Like the other Credor Masterpiece models, the new Eichi II is produced at the Micro Artist Studio, a small workshop dedicated to artisanal watchmaking.

Initial thoughts

The new Eichi II is largely identical to the versions in platinum and rose gold, differing only in the case metal. It does, however, look very different. Although the ruri dial is identical to that on the platinum model, the colours seem richer here. Yellow gold and blue is a combination that works well, and it is particularly appealing here, perhaps because of the simplicity of the design.

Notably, the anniversary Eichi II is priced in between the regular production versions in rose gold and platinum. Considering the small number made and the intrinsic quality of the watch, it is certainly a compelling proposition.

Ruri glaze

First found on the platinum model, the dark blue dial is finished with ruri, a type of glaze that results in a glossy, deep blue finish that varies in hue with the light. Instead of the stark white indices found on the platinum model, the dial markings here are in gold.

However, the markings are more elaborate than those found on the standard Eichi. As is tradition for the Eichi dial, the markings are painted by hand and then fired in an oven to set. For the anniversary edition, however, the dial markings are then covered with gold leaf to create a metallic finish, a traditional technique known as ruri-kinsai.

The dial also incorporates a more subtle point of difference between this and the regular production models – replacing the single baton at 12 o’clock is the Credor logo, a discreet reference to the line’s anniversary.

The 39 mm case retains the same dimensions and design as the standard model, except it is in 18k yellow gold, a metal less common in the current Credor catalogue.

The movement inside remains unchanged, which is a good thing, given the high quality of construction and finishing. The hand-wind Spring Drive cal. 7R14 is decorated and assembled by hand, much like high-end Swiss mechanical movements. In a nod to the city of Shiojiri, home to the Micro Artist Studio, the barrel is open worked to form a bellflower, the symbol of the city.

Key facts and price

Seiko Credor 50th Anniversary Eichi II Limited Edition
Ref. GBLT996

Diameter: 39 mm
Height: 10.3 mm
Material: Yellow gold
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: Spring Drive cal. 7R14
Functions: hours, minutes, and seconds
Winding: Manual-winding
Power reserve: 60 hours

Strap: Crocodile strap with three-fold clasp with push button release

Limited edition: 30 pieces
Availability: Available at Credor Salons and retailers starting June 2024
Price: US$45,000, or 6.6 million Japanese yen (prices include local taxes)

For more, visit credor.com