By Jovan Krstevski
Seiko returns to its well of Japanese traditions with the Presage Classic Series, presenting the SPB525 and SPB527 in Ai-Iro, the deep indigo known as Japan Blue. Both models capture retro style without looking like they’re trying too hard; it’s a timeless design simply updated with a new color.
The casework is familiar territory for those who followed last year’s Presage releases. Measuring 40.2mm x 13mm, with a 46mm lug-to-lug, the stainless steel shell carries both brushed and polished facets. It is sealed with a dual curved sapphire crystal, matched by a domed caseback that absorbs some of the thickness. A screw-down display back reveals the mechanics within and the watch is secured against 100 metres of water.
The dials are where the two diverge. The SPB525 wears a finely grained surface inspired by woven silk beneath polished hands and markers, with a date neatly perched at three o’clock. The SPB527 turns up the intricacy with a radial finish echoing raw silk yarn, interrupted by an aperture at nine revealing the regulating organ, balanced with a 24-hour indicator at six. Both carry satin-finished inner flanges that frame the scene without intruding.
Beneath it all runs Seiko’s mid-tier mechanics. The SPB525 houses calibre 6R55, while the SPB527 holds the 6R5J, both automatic engines storing 72 hours of autonomy at a steady 3Hz pace. Accuracy sits within the brand’s familiar bracket of +25 to -15 seconds per day, perfectly serviceable for this echelon.
The bracelet is a key part of the design. It’s a soft, 7-link steel band inspired by 70s watches, and it has a mix of shiny and matte parts that look great together. The SPB525 is priced at EUR 990 and the SPB527 at EUR 1,230. Both are confirmed as permanent additions to the catalogue, with deliveries set for October 2025.
