Seiko 145th Anniversary "Edo Purple" Collection Brings Traditional Tokyo Color to Three Models
A Traditional Tokyo Color Comes to Seiko's Anniversary Collection
145 years ago, Kintaro Hattori opened a shop in Tokyo's Ginza district for the sale and repair of timepieces. To honor this milestone and the city that saw its creation, Seiko has released a series of limited-edition watches featuring "Edo Purple" — a traditional Japanese color that emerged during the Edo period (1603–1868) as a hue reflecting the distinctive character of the city then known as Edo.
The collection spans three mechanical models: the Prospex Alpinist HBC006, the Presage Cocktail Time GMT HCB006, and the Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003.
Prospex Alpinist "Edo Purple" HBC006
The classic Alpinist returns with a sunray-brushed light purple dial, gold-colored accents on the logo and seconds hand, and the model's signature rotating compass bezel with additional crown at 4 o'clock. Housed in a 39.5mm steel case with 200m water resistance, it is powered by the Caliber 6R55 automatic movement with 72-hour power reserve. Limited to 7,000 pieces at EUR 980.
Presage Cocktail Time GMT "Edo Purple" HCB006
The Cocktail Time GMT features a glossy, textured purple dial inspired by an original cocktail, "Edo Murasaki," created by Hisashi Kishi of Star Bar. The radial pattern is visible under the deep yet translucent purple tone, combined with gold-colored accents on the logo and GMT hand. The 40.5mm steel case houses the Caliber 4R34 office-style GMT movement with 41-hour power reserve. Limited to 6,000 pieces at EUR 620.
Seiko 5 Sports SKX "Edo Purple" HDB003
At the entry level, the 5 Sports SKX receives a deep, sunray-brushed purple dial with gold-colored accents and sharp vertically striated indexes. The 42.5mm steel case offers 100m water resistance, powered by the ubiquitous Caliber 4R36 (41-hour power reserve). Limited to 9,999 pieces at EUR 450.
Collection Comparison
| Model | Reference | Case Size | Movement | Water Resistance | Limited Edition | Price (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpinist | HBC006 | 39.5mm x 12.7mm | 6R55 (72h) | 200m | 7,000 pcs | 980 |
| Presage GMT | HCB006 | 40.5mm x 12.8mm | 4R34 (41h) | 50m | 6,000 pcs | 620 |
| 5 Sports SKX | HDB003 | 42.5mm x 13.9mm | 4R36 (41h) | 100m | 9,999 pcs | 450 |
The Cultural Significance of Edo Purple
As Tokyo (formerly Edo) evolved, so too did its cultural expressions, including distinctive colors reflecting the sensibilities of each era. "Edo purple" emerged during the Edo period as a hue beloved for reflecting the distinctive character of the city. Part of the broader lineage of purples long appreciated in Japan, it has been passed down to the present day and now finds new life on Seiko's anniversary timepieces.
Availability
All three models will be available beginning in October 2026 at Seiko Boutiques and select retail stores worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "Edo Purple"?
Edo Purple is a traditional Japanese color that emerged during the Edo period (1603–1868), reflecting the distinctive cultural character of Tokyo (then known as Edo). It has been passed down through generations and now inspires Seiko's 145th anniversary collection.
Which Edo Purple model offers the best value?
The Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003 at EUR 450 is the most accessible, while the Presage Cocktail Time GMT HCB006 at EUR 620 offers a GMT complication — exceptional value for a mechanical GMT with a beautifully textured dial.
Are these watches exclusive to Japan?
No, all three models will be available at Seiko Boutiques and select retail stores worldwide beginning October 2026.
Sources: Monochrome Watches
Discover our Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Collection for more dressy options.