Seiko ReCraft: The Modern Classic of Seiko
Recreating a vintage classic has always been a great way to revive a vital part of history, particularly in the world of watchmaking. As such, Seiko decided to introduce the Seiko ReCraft, which is a homage to the watches from back in the 1970s. Although it is not based on any specific Seiko model, the Seiko ReCraft perfectly captures the retro theme that was popular during that time.
One of the top Japanese brands in the market, Seiko is known for manufacturing impressive watches that both look good and are great for everyday use. As an exquisite vintage-influenced piece, the Seiko ReCraft seamlessly combines the designs of the past with a few modern upgrades, enticing both the younger and older generations. Keep in mind that this watch is also equipped with a well-crafted automatic movement, which is another major plus for the usual watch enthusiast. In this review, we will be taking an in-depth look at everything that makes the Seiko ReCraft such a worthy investment, along with a few popular alternatives that might spark your interest.
First Impressions
The first thing that you will notice about the Seiko ReCraft is its prominent rectangular shape. Since the use of watches with rectangular shapes became especially popular back in the 1900s, bringing it back in the Seiko ReCraft would surely provide watch enthusiasts and collectors with a trip down memory lane. That being said, there is no guarantee that the design of the Seiko ReCraft will be as popular with today’s audiences as it was in the past. In particular, younger and more modern fans of Seiko might be turned away by the ReCraft’s chunky build and bold edges.
In order to mitigate that, Seiko has equipped the ReCraft with some exceptional modern features that breathe new life into it. This includes its updated dial design, which has a more rounded shape compared to older vintage watches from the 1970s. Indeed, the features found on this watch make it a great contender for being one of the best dress watches in the market. Read on to find out more about the detailed specifications of the Seiko ReCraft Ref. SNKP23 and everything it has to offer.
Specifications
Case, Caseback, and Crown
In general, rectangular watches are known to have smaller case diameters than round watches. This is also true of the Seiko ReCraft, which is designed with a compact, smaller-than-average size of 39.5mm. The case and bracelet of the ReCraft are both made from durable stainless steel, making it highly resistant to scratches and impacts. In addition, both are also finely polished, giving the watch an elegant, gleaming look.
On the underside of the Seiko ReCraft Ref. SNKP23, you can find a transparent screwed-in caseback, made to showcase the automatic calibre movement that powers the watch. The sapphire crystal that makes up the caseback is quite thick, ensuring a sturdy and secure exterior that can safely protect the movement from external elements, especially water and impacts. The ability to observe the movement at work also adds to the overall charm of the Seiko ReCraft, making it a great conversation starter if need be.
Finally, you can find a sizeable, protruding crown on the right side of the Seiko ReCraft’s case. Its prominent placing, long size, and grooved edges provide an excellent grip, so wearers can easily turn the crown to adjust the time. It is also securely screwed-in, giving the watch a solid depth rating of 50 metres. That said, one downside to the ReCraft is that the crown’s size and protrusion can make the watch quite uncomfortable to wear as it can dig into your skin, particularly for those who have wider wrists. This can definitely ruin your watch-wearing experience. As such, the Seiko ReCraft is generally recommended for those with slimmer wrists, who will not encounter this problem.
Dial
The dial of this watch comes in a striking combination of black and blue, with a bold sunburst finish. The glossy undertones of the dial give off a vibe of extravagance, adding to the Seiko ReCraft’s status as an excellent dress watch. On the dial, you can also find two sets of white hour markers that contrast against the darker backdrop: larger rectangular markers on the outer rim of the dial, and a set of smaller circular markers closer to the centre of the dial. Both go hand in hand with each other to ensure greater readability and enhance the Seiko ReCraft’s beauty.
The date aperture of the watch is located at the standard 3 o’clock position, next to a day of the week indicator. Both of these features are framed in metal so that they stand out more clearly against the black-and-blue dial. The hours and minutes hands also come in stainless steel, maintaining the same polished look as the case, bracelet, and markers. All the hour markers and hands are coated in lume, allowing for great legibility even when the wearer is using the Seiko ReCraft in poor lighting conditions.
Movement
Every watch in the Seiko ReCraft collection uses the in-house Seiko Calibre 7S26 and the ReCraft Ref. SNKP23 is no different. This movement ensures impressive accuracy, with its consistent frequency of 21,600 VpH. It also provides the watch with a power reserve of 41 hours when not in use. Furthermore, since this is an automatic movement, you can simply recharge the watch by wearing it and using the kinetic energy from the motion of your arm. Failing that, you can also wind and reset the ReCraft using its long crown.
The Seiko Calibre 7S26 is also an extremely reliable and sturdy mechanism despite its basic automatic features. This is because it is fitted with the brand’s patented Diashock technology, which protects the movement from any external force and shocks. In addition, the movement also has a magnetic resistance of 4,800 A/m, allowing the Seiko ReCraft to withstand strong magnetic fields as well.
Price
You might not expect this considering its elegant, vintage-influenced appearance as a dress watch, but the Seiko ReCraft is actually marketed at a very affordable price. Although other watches with similar designs that combine the retro and the modern are often sold for more than $500 USD, the retail price of the Seiko ReCraft starts at just $275 USD. If you are looking for an accessible and exquisite dress watch that will elevate your style, the Seiko ReCraft is definitely a piece worth considering.
Brief History
The design of the Seiko ReCraft looks like it came straight out of the 70s. As such, it is a surprise to many casual wearers that this watch collection was only recently introduced to the market in 2015. Inspired by vintage watches with rectangular builds that were popular in the 1970s, the Seiko ReCraft impressively capitalises on the average watch collector’s nostalgia while also providing a glimpse of how far Seiko has come. This fancy dress piece might not have the long history of some other Seiko collections, like the Presage or the Astron, but it is definitely one to keep an eye on in the future.
Alternatives to the Seiko ReCraft
Although the Seiko ReCraft is a great dress watch choice with its classic looks, it might not be to everyone’s tastes. Maybe you want something more lavish, or perhaps you are not a fan of the ReCraft’s dressy style and are looking for something more rugged and robust. If so, we have collated a list of three top-notch alternatives to the Seiko ReCraft. All of these options boast the same vintage-inspired rectangular case as the Seiko ReCraft, while also offering something a little different that might just be what you are looking for.
1. Nomos Glashuette Tetra Ref. 443
The NOMOS Glashuette Tetra Ref. 443 offers a fresher, more fashionable look that you would surely enjoy if you are looking for a more modern watch than the Seiko ReCraft. As far as rectangular watches too, this NOMOS Glashutte Tetra piece, with its clean lines and minimalistic aesthetic, is definitely the best choice for younger audiences. If you think the Seiko ReCraft is a little too old-fashioned for you, then you should definitely have a look at the NOMOS Glashuette Tetra Ref. 443.
This watch has a slender 29.5mm build, encased in a sleek square-shaped stainless steel case. Its refined edges and thin lugs are balanced perfectly against the watch’s understated Velour grey leather strap. The highlight of this NOMOS Glashuette watch is definitely its minimalistic soft pink dial, which boasts stick-shaped hour indices and hands along with Arabic numeral markers in a thin font. You can also find a small seconds sub-dial at the 6 o’clock marker. This dial is neat and easy to read, exuding a quiet sophistication that will surely up your style.
The price for the Nomos Glashuette Tetra Ref. 443 starts at $1,500 USD. It is considerably more expensive than the Seiko ReCraft, but audiences might find it worth it, with its attractive, Bauhaus-inspired aesthetic. This is a versatile watch option that you could easily bring anywhere, whether it is to parties, formal events or even on your daily routines.
2. Casio G-Shock Solar Origin Ref. GMW-B5000-1JF
Casio has long been considered one of the best brands for durable, robust watches since it introduced the Casio G-Shock. The conception of the Casio G-Shock DW5000 created many opportunities that allowed Casio to branch out, experimenting with various designs and innovative features. However, one thing that all G-Shock watches have in common is that they are all proven to have long lifespans and are able to withstand all sorts of extreme weather and harsh conditions. If you are looking for a classic rectangular watch that is more rugged and sturdy than its peers, look no further than the Casio G-Shock Solar Origin Ref. GMW-B5000-1JF.
This G-Shock piece possesses new and improved features that exceed the first G-Shock, while also maintaining its original design. Instead of the usual carbon material used with G-Shock watches, this model comes in a heftier, oversized stainless steel case that measures 49.5mm in diameter. This makes it best suited for those with average-to-large-sized wrists. In addition, it comes with a comfortable black rubber strap and has 200 metres of water resistance.
This Casio watch retails at a price of $539 USD. It is relatively affordable and very robust, with a casual vibe that makes it the perfect outdoor companion. If you are looking for a rectangular watch that offers greater utility, with innovative Seiko features like the solar-charging Tough Solar or the MultiBand 6 technology, then the Casio G-Shock Solar Origin is your best bet.
3. Cartier Santos-Dumont Ref. WSSA0022
Cartier has long been considered a pioneer for both square-shaped watches and aviation watches, and this is mainly due to the Cartier Santos-Dumont. This watch, which Cartier crafted for his friend Santos-Dumont, features a distinct square-shaped case with visible screws on its bezel. This design quickly became popular amongst both pilots and average watch wearers and the brand subsequently launched the Santos-Dumont as an official aviation watch in 1911. This watch was said to be a great help in terms of calculating fuel consumption, take-off speed, airspeed, and more.
The watch we are looking at today is the Cartier Santos-Dumont Ref. WSSA0022. This piece comes in a 43.4mm stainless steel case paired with an elegant blue leather strap. The crown has a unique design, with an embedded blue crystal on top of it that makes it easier to grip and turn. The dial, on the other hand, comes in a silver sunburst finish, with black Roman numeral markers and blued steel hands.
This Cartier watch might look rather simple. However, its exquisite features, like the stylised Roman numerals, its lovely silver-and-blue colourway and its use of a striking blue crystal give it an air of extravagance that makes it an exceptional luxury watch. This watch has a price tag of $4,300 USD and is a great luxury alternative to the Seiko ReCraft.
Final Thoughts
The Seiko ReCraft is a delightful dress watch. With its affordable pricing and classic, elegant looks, this is a promising piece that would be the perfect partner to any formal event or dinner party. It has all the design aspects you would expect from a vintage-influenced watch, while also incorporating modern features and capabilities to entice younger audiences. Indeed, if you enjoy nostalgic aesthetics and are into rectangular or square-shaped watches, then we definitely recommend the Seiko ReCraft.
Images courtesy of The Watch Company, unless stated otherwise.
Featured image courtesy of Seiko.
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