Seiko has just unveiled two new additions to its Presage Classic Series: the SPB525 and SPB527, both dressed in a rich ‘Ai‑iro’ Japan Blue dial. Promising exquisite craftsmanship, strong heritage cues, and respectable specs, these watches offer serious appeal for lovers of elegant everyday timepieces. Here’s everything you need to know.
Ai‑iro Japan Blue: A Dial Colour Steeped in History
The term Ai‑iro refers to a traditional shade of indigo beloved in Japan since the Edo period (1603‑1868). It was once considered a mark of good fortune among Samurai and adopted widely during the Meiji era, which led foreign observers to call it “Japan Blue.” Seiko uses this hue to evoke both cultural heritage and deep tones that shift in light, giving the dials of the SPB525 and SPB527 a compelling presence.
Seiko SPB525 & SPB527: Shared Design Elements
Both models share many design features, giving the series a coherent identity:
- Case: 40.2 mm stainless steel, with stepped bezel, a fluted crown at 3 o’clock, and alternating polished/brushed finishes.
- Crystal: Dual‑curved sapphire crystal with anti‑reflective coating on the inner surface.
- Bracelet: A 7‑row stainless steel bracelet, mixing brushed outer links and polished inner links. The links are relatively short for comfort, inspired by Seiko’s designs from the 1970s.
- Case Back & Water Resistance: A see‑through case back; water resistance of 100 meters (10 bar).
- Movement Family: Both are part of Seiko’s 6R‑series; long power reserve and solid reliability.
From a design perspective, these watches strike a harmonious balance. The SPB525 is designed for purists—those who prefer symmetry, a clean date display, and tactile textures that nod to traditional silk fabrics. On the other hand, the SPB527 introduces more flair with its open-heart aperture and 24-hour subdial, appealing to collectors who enjoy mechanical intrigue and a glimpse into the watch’s inner workings.
Price, Availability & Value
The Seiko Presage SPB525 and SPB527 both land at what can be considered a sweet spot in the luxury dress watch segment. In the UK, the SPB525 is priced at approximately £900, while the SPB527 comes in around £1,060. These prices reflect strong value, especially considering the 6R-series movements and handcrafted dial finishes.
They’re not limited editions, which means availability should be stable for at least a few seasons. Seiko has confirmed a release window of October 2025.
Seiko’s SPB525 and SPB527 in Ai‑iro Japan Blue offer a compelling blend of heritage, strong movement credentials, and design finesse. Whether you favour the quiet dignity of the SPB525 or the expressive charm of the SPB527, both models add rich depth and colour to the Presage Classic line. If you’re in the market for a dress watch with character, October 2025 may be the month to keep an eye out.
