Seiko Celebrates 145th Anniversary with Limited Edition "Edo Purple" Collection

Seiko Marks 145 Years with Tokyo-Inspired Purple Dial Collection

Seiko has unveiled a trio of limited-edition timepieces to commemorate its 145th anniversary, drawing inspiration from "Edo purple"—a traditional color that emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868) in what is now Tokyo. The collection, announced on August 6, 2026, spans three of Seiko's most recognizable product families: the Alpinist, Presage Cocktail Time, and Seiko 5 Sports SKX series.

According to Monochrome Watches, the Edo purple color reflects the distinctive cultural character of the Edo period, when the foundations of present-day Tokyo were established. Seiko itself was founded in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a shop in Tokyo's Ginza district for the sale and repair of timepieces. The 145th anniversary collection honors both the company's heritage and the city that served as its birthplace.

Prospex Alpinist "Edo Purple" HBC006

The Alpinist HBC006 represents Seiko's modern interpretation of its first sports watch, originally designed in 1959 for mountain exploration. Unlike earlier vintage-inspired recreations, this model is based on the contemporary SARB-series introduced in 1995, featuring the collection's signature rotating compass bezel and additional crown at 4 o'clock.

The Alpinist HBC006 features a sunray-brushed light purple dial with wedge-shaped indexes and Arabic numerals, complemented by gold-colored accents on the Seiko logo and seconds hand. It houses the caliber 6R55 automatic movement with 72-hour power reserve and is worn on a black leather strap with crocodile pattern, purple stitching, and a three-fold clasp. The watch offers 200 meters of water resistance, making it the most robust model in the collection.

Presage Cocktail Time GMT "Edo Purple" HCB006

The Presage Cocktail Time GMT HCB006 brings the Edo Purple treatment to Seiko's cocktail-inspired dress watch line. Housed in a 40.5mm steel case, the watch features a glossy, textured dial with a vibrant translucent purple color inspired by "Edo Murasaki," an original cocktail created by Hisashi Kishi of Star Bar in Tokyo.

The dial's radial pattern is visible beneath the translucent purple tone, with gold-colored accents on the logo and GMT hand. The caliber 4R34 office-style GMT movement provides a second time zone display alongside the standard hours, minutes, and seconds. Protected by a box-shaped Hardlex crystal, the watch is worn on a 5-link steel bracelet and offers 50 meters of water resistance.

Seiko 5 Sports SKX "Edo Purple" HDB003

The most accessible model in the collection, the Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003 applies the Edo Purple color to Seiko's entry-level sports watch. Based on the iconic SKX007 lineage, this 42.5mm model retains the series' crown at 4 o'clock, rotating bezel with black Hardlex insert, and 100-meter water resistance.

The deep sunray-brushed purple dial features the sharp, vertically striated indexes introduced in the redesigned 5 Sports SKX series launched in 2025. The caliber 4R36 automatic movement provides 41 hours of power reserve with day-date display. The refreshed steel bracelet with folding clasp completes the package, making this the most price-accessible entry point into the Edo Purple collection at EUR 450.

Availability and Collector Interest

All three Edo Purple models will be available beginning October 2026 at Seiko Boutiques and select retail stores worldwide. The collection spans a wide price range from EUR 450 to EUR 980, ensuring accessibility across different collector segments. The combined production run totals 22,999 pieces across all three references.

For collectors exploring Seiko's broader anniversary offerings and heritage models, we recommend our complete Seiko brand guide and anniversary and limited edition watches overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Edo Purple?

Edo purple is a traditional Japanese color that emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868) in what is now Tokyo. It became associated with the distinctive cultural character of the Edo period and has been passed down as a color reflecting Tokyo's heritage. Seiko chose this color to honor both its 145th anniversary and its founding city.

Which model in the collection offers the best value?

The Seiko 5 Sports SKX HDB003 at EUR 450 offers the most accessible entry point, providing the Edo Purple aesthetic in a robust 42.5mm sports watch package with 100m water resistance. For those wanting additional complications, the Presage Cocktail Time GMT HCB006 at EUR 620 adds a GMT function, while the Alpinist HBC006 at EUR 980 offers the highest water resistance and premium sapphire crystal.

Are these watches available for pre-order?

Seiko has announced an October 2026 availability date through official Boutiques and select authorized retailers. Pre-order availability may vary by region and retailer. Contact your local Seiko boutique or authorized dealer for specific pre-order information in your market.

Source: According to Monochrome Watches (monochrome-watches.com), published August 6, 2026.