In a celebration of animated brilliance and traditional Japanese craftsmanship, Seiko Presage introduces a captivating addition to its Craftsmanship Series inspired by Studio Ghibli’s cult Japanese post-apocalyptic anime fantasy film, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.
The release pays homage to the beloved 1984 classic, renowned for its imaginative narrative and distinctive visuals that have captured the hearts of anime fans globally.
This latest creation is a testament to the fusion of fine mechanical watchmaking and artistic expression. The enchanting narrative of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind unfolds in every detail of the watch, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship synonymous with the Seiko Presage Collection.
The storyline, set a millennium after the ‘Seven Days of Fire’ war devastated modern civilization, revolves around Princess Nausicaä navigating a world tainted by pollution and inhabited by giant mutant insects. The film’s central themes of environmentalism and coexistence are elegantly reflected in the timepiece’s design.
The round and curved watch design draws inspiration from the tools used by Nausicaä, evoking a vintage-style finish reminiscent of the well-worn instruments featured in the film. The uniquely shaped crown, adorned with a blue crystal glass reminiscent of the Ohms’ eyes, adds a touch of whimsy to the timepiece. Even the strap bears the mark of an Ohm, emphasising the connection to the film’s storyline.
A highlight of the watch is its pure blue enamel dial, meticulously crafted to represent the protagonist’s iconic blue outfit. Master craftsman Mitsuru Yokosawa and his team, specialising in enamel production, ensured the perfect shade of blue to enhance the timepiece’s aesthetic appeal.
The white hour and minute hands, along with elongated indexes, provide optimal legibility, while the seconds hand introduces a gold-toned accent.
Powering the watch is the newly introduced Calibre 6R51, a version of Seiko’s high-performance 6R55 movement. With a power reserve of 72 hours, the movement is visible through a sapphire caseback, featuring an illustration reminiscent of the film’s closing scene, representing the Earth’s rejuvenation.
The gold-plated caseback is engraved with a legend from the Valley of the Wind, adding an extra layer of storytelling to the timepiece. The watch is presented in a special box adorned with an illustration from the film and accompanied by a message card in Japanese from the acclaimed director, Hayao Miyazaki.
Scheduled for release in March 2024, this limited-edition timepiece (SPB437), will be available at Seiko Boutiques and select retail partners worldwide. With only 1,500 examples produced, it is poised to become a cherished collector’s item for fans of Studio Ghibli.
