Seiko 145th Anniversary: Edo Purple Collection Celebrates Heritage
Seiko Celebrates 145th Anniversary with "Edo Purple" Collection
Seiko marks its 145th anniversary with a new series of limited-edition timepieces featuring "Edo Purple," a traditional Tokyo-inspired color. The collection includes the Alpinist HBC006, Presage Cocktail Time HCB006, and Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003, all celebrating the brand's deep connection to Japan's capital.
The Legacy of Edo Purple
According to Monochrome Watches, 145 years ago, Kintaro Hattori opened a shop in Tokyo's Ginza district for the sale and repair of timepieces. During the Edo period (1603-1868), a traditional Japanese color known as "Edo purple" emerged, reflecting the distinctive character of the city.
Three Commemorative Models
| Model | Collection | Case Size | Movement | Limited | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HBC006 | Prospex Alpinist | 39.5mm | 6R55 (72h) | 7,000 pcs | EUR 980 |
| HCB006 | Presage Cocktail GMT | 40.5mm | 4R34 (41h) | 6,000 pcs | EUR 620 |
| HDB003 | 5 Sports SKX | 42.5mm | 4R36 (41h) | 9,999 pcs | EUR 450 |
Prospex Alpinist "Edo Purple" HBC006
The Alpinist features a sunray-brushed, light purple dial with classic wedge-shaped indexes and Arabic numerals. Gold-colored accents on the Seiko logo and seconds hand complement the purple tones. The watch includes an internal rotating compass bezel and 200m water resistance.
Presage Cocktail Time GMT "Edo Purple" HCB006
The Cocktail Time GMT showcases a glossy, textured dial with vibrant purple color inspired by "Edo Murasaki," an original cocktail created by Hisashi Kishi of Star Bar. The watch features a GMT complication for tracking two time zones.
Seiko 5 Sports SKX "Edo Purple" HDB003
The entry-level 5 Sports SKX features a deep, sunray-brushed purple dial with gold-colored accents and the sharp, vertically striated indexes characteristic of the redesigned SKX series launched in 2025.
Availability
All watches will be available beginning October 2026 at Seiko Boutiques and select retail stores worldwide. The collection represents Seiko's most accessible way to own a piece of the brand's 145-year heritage.
FAQ
What is the significance of Edo Purple?
Edo purple is a traditional Japanese color that emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868), reflecting the cultural identity of Tokyo when it was known as Edo.
Are these watches numbered?
Yes, each watch features an individual serial number on the caseback indicating its place within the limited production run.
What movements power these watches?
All three models use Seiko's in-house automatic movements with different power reserves: 72 hours for the Alpinist and 41 hours for the Cocktail GMT and 5 Sports.
Source
According to Monochrome Watches, the Edo Purple collection celebrates Seiko's deep roots in Tokyo's watchmaking history.
Learn more about Seiko's complete history in our brand heritage guide.