Grand Seiko is Seiko's highest-end model.
Grand Seiko was born at the Suwa factory in 1960.
Meanwhile, King Seiko was born at the Kameido factory the following year.
The 1960s marked a turning point in history not only in Japan, but also within Seiko itself.
King Seiko, born in 1961, is based on the Chronos.
It also features a case that is plated with 14K gold, 100 microns thick, which exceeds the thickness of Grand Seiko.
The design is sharp and edgy compared to the rounded Grand Seiko.
They may look the same, but they are polar opposites.
Each factory produced competing high-end models.
The image of Grand Seiko is that of a watch that captures the essence of a wristwatch and can be described as "ultimately ordinary."
On the other hand, King Seiko seems to have put a very aggressive idea into the watch.
I get the impression that there are a lot of watches that are inspired by overseas products.
In terms of domestic products, it could be said to be a rival to Citizen.
The first model is relatively basic but has a slightly rugged, masculine feel to it.
Unlike the slightly softer look of the Grand Seiko,
It gives off the vibe of a luxury item with a different interpretation.
After a few years, unique designs and colorful dials will become popular.
King Seiko also has a lineup of interesting watches.
Grand Seiko often follows a traditional approach,
This shows that even within the same brand, different models are differentiated.
Grand Seiko Lion Medallion.
In contrast, King Seiko has a shield motif.
The crown mark engraved in the center indicates that it is a symbol of the "King".
The name King Seiko has become familiar with the reissue of the second model in 2022,
Before that, people would often ask me, "What is King Seiko?"
In the 1980s, the brand was merged with Grand Seiko, bringing it to an end.
It is also a brand with more fans than Grand Seiko among watch lovers.
This commemorative first model has something unique that is not found in imported watches.
As a brand that shows how profound and interesting Japanese-made watches are,
I would definitely recommend King Seiko.
