Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. Seiko Presage Cocktail Automatic SRPF37J1 & SRPF39J1 (Live Pics & Price)
Seiko's accessible dress watch with elegant new dials and a mesh bracelet.
Seiko is widely known for its robust sports watches, all under the Prospex sub-collection. There’s no denying the influence that the brand had and still has on the accessible sports watch market. Yet, Seiko is also capable of creating refined dress watches, which are known as Presage. A collection focused on traditional Japanese craftsmanship, Presage is home to a series of models with original designs, complex dials and accessible prices, like these Cocktail watches. Today, two new models are introduced, the Seiko Presage Cocktail Automatic SRPF37J1 and SRPF39J1. And if you’re in the market for a well-sized, affordable, cool yet elegant watch, look no further.
The Presage collection is Seiko’s answer to the traditional Swiss watch with restrained looks and high-end dials – made from enamel, porcelain or Japanese lacquers. Not per se accessible, but still fairly priced considering what you get in return for your money, the Presage collection made its way into the heart of enthusiasts with its focus on typical Japanese savoir-faire. In addition to these higher-end models, the collection also comprises more accessible watches, the so-called Presage Cocktail, offering superb value for the money and a not-so-serious take on the elegant watch. Original colours and complex patterns are the hallmarks of this collection and the new SRPF37J1 and SRPF39J1 are no exception.
These new Seiko Presage Cocktail Automatic are housed in well-proportioned stainless steel case measuring only 38.5mm in diameter. I say “only” because, considering the current market, such a restrained size is not so common anymore – yet highly appreciated. Compact and relatively thin, the case is elegantly designed with a thin bezel and short lugs. When worn, the effect of seeing the bracelet “wrap” around the wrist is a nice sensation and adds to the elegance of these pieces. The watch is equipped with a box-shaped Hardlex crystal, giving the watch a slight vintage touch, and is water-resistant to 50m.
For a slightly more casual look and a more contemporary style, these new Presage Cocktail watches are worn on mesh bracelets – actually, closer to metallic straps since they close with a sliding buckle and are made of two separate pieces. They are relatively soft and flexible, and the clasp allows for precise adjustment.
As always with Presage watches, the dials contribute a great deal to their appeal. The stamped pattern (you can’t expect an engraved pattern at this price) shows a concentric pattern that mimics that of guillochage. The dials are animated by applied hour markers and Arabic numerals, while time is read thanks to Dauphine-style, polished hands. Two colours are available, each with its own personality. First is the SRPF37J1, with a warm white colour and gold-coated hands and indexes. Second is the SRPF39J1, with a black scheme and silver-coloured hands and indexes. Both dials feature a discreet gradient effect with a slightly darker periphery than the centre. A metallic-framed date window sits at the 3 o’clock position.
Powering the Presage Cocktail Automatic SRPF37J1 and SRPF39J1 is Seiko’s entry-level automatic movement, the Calibre 4R35, found in multiple Presage or Prospex watches. This simple yet robust automatic engine runs at 3Hz and provides 41h of energy when fully wound. It is visible through a see-through caseback and features a gold-coloured rotor.
The Seiko Presage Cocktail Automatic SRPF37J1 and SRPF39J1 will soon be available at retailers and Seiko online boutiques, and priced at EUR 490. More details at seikowatches.com.
