The must-have Macro Loupe for all watch lovers

Around 1950, in the Glashutte region of former East Germany, several watchmaking companies were nationalized under the name (VEB) Glashütter Uhrenbetriebe or GUB. For more than 40 years, a large part of German watchmaking know-how (including A. Lange & Söhne) continued like this. And later, the privatization of the conglomerate in 1994, notably marked the birth of Glashütte Original.

From this period, for watch hunters, the emblematic 'Glashütte Spezimatic' often comes back. And that's good because it has been so declined that there is something for everyone. For aesthetic reasons, I was looking for a round case, without date, on a black background. A little less easy to find, the caliber 74 (without date) having been less produced than the cal.75 (with date). However, the calibers were produced on a large scale, so it was far from impossible.

I finally found this 1973 vintage with this beautiful dial that I particularly like. The classic round case of the 60s is still there but it is already a little "larger" (36m) and we are gradually changing aesthetic canons because the thin indexes and hands are giving way to wide affixed indexes and wider hands as well. In short, a 70s pre-design (later well established for the Spezimatic and Spezichron) that I really like. In short, an elegant piece of German watchmaking history that I like to wear regularly.

Spezimatic - The Germanic Touch

Model launched in the 80s as a tribute to the conquest of space, the Russian manufacturer interprets the heliocentric theory here with originality. With its round hands symbolizing the moon and the sun, a case cut with a sickle and its ultra-domed acrylic glass, it is impossible to remain indifferent to the atypical character of the Raketa Kopernic. A watch that often challenges and opens the discussion on watchmaking. In short, a pleasure to wear this small (36mm) vintage Soviet watch with a strong design. 

On the mechanical side, a manual winding (caliber 2609.HП, 18,000 A/h) with a good power reserve, a very acceptable drift (-10s/d). Intended to be distributed on a large scale by the Russian watch industry. So no frills, reliability and robustness. 

My copy apparently left the factory in 1991, the year of the breakup of the USSR. I bought it for next to nothing with box and papers and gave it a service (more expensive than the price of the watch^^). Recently fitted with a sand-colored nato strap with a black PVD buckle, it is off to a new lease of life.

A Cosmic Vintage Made in Russia

My first timepiece. Starting with Seiko is a classic for watch lovers and I was no exception to the rule. Also being attracted to Japanese culture, when this model came out, I fell in love at first sight. And it ticked my fancy for a 'sport-chic' watch. With its sharp lines, this watch is classy (a touch of Grand Seiko even). 
In my opinion, it successfully mixes modern and the Japanese DNA of this manufacturer that has shaken up the world of watchmaking. The textured dial with the traditional Japanese motif called 'hemp leaf' also has something to do with it. And the result is magnificent: with a beautiful dial opening for a 39mm, the light intake is crazy and changes throughout the day. Impression of robustness, surprising polishing of the bracelet because despite daily use the watch hardly scratches. Mix of brushed and mirror polished steel very successful. You get it, I love it and it holds a special place in my collection even if it is no longer my daily...

A sleek, sporty and elegant watch

The Seiko brand, founded in 1881 by Kintaro Hattori in the Ginza district of Tokyo, has become one of the most influential and respected watch companies in the world. Since the opening of its first store, Seiko has continued a path of constant growth and innovation.
<h2 dir="ltr">History of the Seiko brand</h2>
The year 1924 marked the first watch produced under the Seiko brand. The company continued to develop new technologies, and in 1956 it released the first self-winding wristwatch made in Japan. The real game-changer came in 1969 with the introduction of the Seiko Astron, the world's first quartz watch. This innovation not only changed the direction of Seiko but also revolutionized the entire watch industry.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Seiko solidified its reputation as a technological leader with the development of solar-powered watches and the introduction of professional divers' watches. In 2005, Seiko presented the Spring Drive, a unique movement combining the strength of mechanical watchmaking and the precision of quartz.
In recent years, Seiko has continued to innovate by creating eco-friendly watches and supporting various environmental initiatives. The brand is known for its commitment to quality, precision and sophisticated design.
<h2 dir="ltr">What are Seiko&rsquo;s iconic models?</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/seiko/prospex">Seiko Prospex</a></h3>
This collection is dedicated to those who seek adventure, whether underwater, on land or in the air. The Prospex offers solid cases, water resistance up to 200 meters, steel or silicone bracelets, and automatic or solar movement. These watches are often associated with professional divers and adventurers.
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/seiko/presage">Seiko Presage</a></h3>
Bringing together the best of traditional Japanese watchmaking and modern design, the Presage offers stainless steel cases, leather straps, automatic movement, and exquisite dials. The collection is appreciated for its elegance and style.
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/seiko/astron">Seiko Astron</a></h3>
This iconic collection represents Seiko innovation. With titanium or stainless steel cases, water resistance up to 100 meters, metal bracelets, solar quartz movement with GPS, the Astron continues to be at the cutting edge of technology.
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/seiko/5_sports">Seiko 5 Sports</a></h3>
The Seiko 5 Sports collection is a symbol of youth and dynamism. With steel cases, water resistance up to 100 meters, steel or fabric straps, and automatic movement, it is designed for the active lifestyle.
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a Seiko watch cost?</h2>
The prices of new Seiko watches change regularly and vary depending on the model. Most cost between &euro;500 and &euro;1,000 depending on the finishes. Price differences can be significant between the brand's different collections. For example, the price of a Seiko 5 fluctuates between &euro;200 and &euro;400 and the Seiko Prospex between &euro;300 and &euro;2,500. Prices also fluctuate depending on the distributor, and promotions sometimes allow you to benefit from a more competitive price. The second-hand market is also an opportunity to look at to buy a cheaper Seiko.
<h2 dir="ltr">Seiko: An essential brand for starting out in watchmaking</h2>
Seiko is a brand that has charted its path through over a century of innovation and excellence. Its main models reflect a diverse range that meets the needs of sportsmen, divers, luxury enthusiasts and fashionable young people. Seiko's positioning in the watch landscape is unique, offering high quality watches at different price points, and remaining at the forefront of technology and design.
To find out more about these models, the brand's website is a useful information resource. Furthermore, the Dialicious owners' reviews are essential to making the right choice from this historic brand. Choosing a Seiko watch is more than a purchase; it&rsquo;s an investment in a piece of Japanese watchmaking history that continues to shape the future. Some may prefer <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/grand_seiko">Grand Seiko</a> but this is another journey...
Check out the <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_japanese_watch_brands">Ranking of the best japanese watch brands</a>, including Seiko.
(Updated November 2023)

Under this famous slogan that the youngest will not have recognized (Clio ad from the 90s) hides this SEIKO SHARP EDGED which is similar, in many ways, to a GRAND SEIKO…
Released in 2020, in the middle of Covid, I had tried it at a jeweler, before finding myself confined again. It was therefore through the SEIKO website that I was able to acquire it.
The case, quite classic, has polished surfaces, brushed edges, and a polished bezel: it's striking!
But what we like most about these SHARP EDGED editions is this textured "hemp leaves" dial (Japanese Asanoha pattern): it's a beautiful effect. It takes the light well, going from a superb blue with light, to a deep black in its absence.
The transparent case back reveals the 6R35 movement, relatively ordinary in terms of finishes. On the other hand, it has a good autonomy of 70 hours and good precision.
It could have been perfect without LumiBrite, which brings nothing to this kind of watch.


It has everything a big (Seiko) has!

As my first automatic watch, the Seiko Presage SPB471J1 was a real favorite. I was captivated by its refinement and understated elegance. Its dial captures the light in a subtle way, creating a play of reflections that never tires the eye.

On the wrist, it's almost invisible thanks to its lightness and comfort, yet stands out thanks to its meticulous design.

Whether dressed up or down, it adapts to any occasion, adding that touch of timeless elegance that only Seiko knows how to master at this price point. For a first automatic watch, I couldn't have dreamed of a better one!

Seiko PRESAGE Try SPB471J1

This watch ticks many boxes and is close to perfection.
I fell in love with it very quickly when I discovered this one. The work on the dial and its asanoha patterns is sublime and works very well with the color of the slightly silvery white dial. The applied and beveled indexes give relief to the watch as well as the name of the brand at 12 o'clock. The date frame is thin but present. The domed sapphire crystal reinforces the vintage side and the case is magnificent with a polished bevel on the horns and vertical brushing. In short, this watch does not have many flaws. However, a small downside on the bracelet with poorly finished stitching that slightly stings the wrist. It is still very pretty, good quality and is in line with the spirit of the watch.


The neo-vintage classic par excellence

I was looking for a beautiful watch for my 40th birthday, this one celebrates Seiko's 140th anniversary with a very beautiful white and blue dial that symbolizes a bright future. I was looking for a high frequency caliber (4Hz) in a dress watch from a watchmaker with my limited budget, I am very happy with this Seiko

140th Anniversary Limited Edition

Atelier Jalaper est une marque horlog&egrave;re franco-belge fond&eacute;e en 2019 par Louis Jalaber et Simon Szleper. Elle se distingue par une approche unique qui fusionne l'horlogerie traditionnelle avec l'h&eacute;ritage automobile en int&eacute;grant des &eacute;l&eacute;ments authentiques de voitures l&eacute;gendaires dans ses montres.
<h3>Origines et Fondation</h3>
Louis Jalaber et Simon Szleper se sont rencontr&eacute;s lors de leurs &eacute;tudes &agrave; l'ESCP Europe, partageant une passion commune pour l'horlogerie et l'automobile. Leur ambition &eacute;tait de cr&eacute;er une montre qui ne se contenterait pas de s'inspirer du design automobile, mais qui int&eacute;grerait v&eacute;ritablement une partie de l'histoire automobile. Cette vision les a conduits &agrave; fonder Atelier Jalaper en 2019.
<h3>Concept et Philosophie</h3>
La philosophie d'Atelier Jalaper repose sur l'id&eacute;e de donner une nouvelle vie &agrave; des voitures embl&eacute;matiques en les int&eacute;grant dans des montres de haute qualit&eacute;. Chaque garde-temps est con&ccedil;u avec des cadrans fabriqu&eacute;s &agrave; partir de pi&egrave;ces authentiques de voitures l&eacute;gendaires, offrant ainsi aux passionn&eacute;s une connexion tangible avec l'histoire automobile.
<h3>Collections et Mod&egrave;les</h3>
Collection DB5
La premi&egrave;re collection d'Atelier Jalaper rend hommage &agrave; l'Aston Martin DB5, une ic&ocirc;ne des ann&eacute;es 1960. Les cadrans de ces montres sont d&eacute;coup&eacute;s dans le capot en aluminium d'une v&eacute;ritable DB5, conf&eacute;rant &agrave; chaque pi&egrave;ce une patine unique. La collection comprend quatre mod&egrave;les :
<ul>
<li>AJ001-S : Mod&egrave;le avec affichage de la date, bo&icirc;tier en acier inoxydable</li>
<li>AJ001-B : Version avec bo&icirc;tier en PVD noir</li>
<li>AJ002-S : Mod&egrave;le avec affichage du jour et de la date, bo&icirc;tier en acier inoxydable</li>
<li>AJ002-B : Version avec bo&icirc;tier en PVD noir</li>
</ul>
Ces montres sont &eacute;quip&eacute;es de mouvements automatiques Miyota, offrant une r&eacute;serve de marche de 42 heures.
Collection Miura
La deuxi&egrave;me collection s'inspire de la Lamborghini Miura, souvent consid&eacute;r&eacute;e comme la premi&egrave;re supercar au monde. Les cadrans sont fabriqu&eacute;s &agrave; partir de pi&egrave;ces authentiques de la Miura, et la collection propose plusieurs variantes :
<ul>
<li>AJ-P400-V : Version avec r&eacute;haut vert</li>
<li>AJ-P400-N : Version avec r&eacute;haut noir</li>
<li>AJ-P400-O : Version avec r&eacute;haut orange</li>
<li>AJ-P400-B : Version avec r&eacute;haut bleu</li>
</ul>
Ces mod&egrave;les sont anim&eacute;s par des mouvements &agrave; remontage manuel Sellita SW270-1 M, offrant une r&eacute;serve de marche d'environ 45 heures.
Collection Jaguar Type E
La troisi&egrave;me collection s'inspire de la Jaguar Type E, l'une des autos les plus reconnaissables entre toutes. Les cadrans sont fabriqu&eacute;s &agrave; partir de pi&egrave;ces authentiques d'une Jaguar Type E semi-lightweight de 1962, et la collection propose deux variantes :
<ul>
<li>AJ-003-B : Version au cadran stri&eacute;</li>
<li>AJ-003-W : Version au cadran noir anodis&eacute;</li>
</ul>
Ces mod&egrave;les sont anim&eacute;s par des mouvements &agrave; remontage automatique Sellita SW300-1, offrant une r&eacute;serve de marche d'environ 42 heures.
<h3>Processus de Fabrication et Savoir-Faire</h3>
Atelier Jalaper collabore avec des artisans et des experts horlogers bas&eacute;s &agrave; La Chaux-de-Fonds, en Suisse, pour assurer une qualit&eacute; exceptionnelle. Le processus de fabrication implique une d&eacute;coupe pr&eacute;cise des pi&egrave;ces automobiles pour cr&eacute;er des cadrans uniques, suivie d'un assemblage minutieux pour garantir la fiabilit&eacute; et l'esth&eacute;tique de chaque montre.
<h3>Engagement envers l'Authenticit&eacute; et l'Innovation</h3>
La marque s'engage &agrave; pr&eacute;server l'authenticit&eacute; des mat&eacute;riaux utilis&eacute;s tout en innovant dans le design et la fonctionnalit&eacute;. Chaque montre est num&eacute;rot&eacute;e et porte en elle l'&acirc;me de la voiture dont elle est issue, offrant aux collectionneurs et aux passionn&eacute;s une pi&egrave;ce de l'histoire automobile &agrave; leur poignet.
<h3>R&eacute;ception et Perspectives d'Avenir</h3>
Depuis son lancement, Atelier Jalaper a re&ccedil;u des retours positifs pour son concept novateur et la qualit&eacute; de ses montres. La marque continue d'explorer de nouvelles collaborations avec des voitures l&eacute;gendaires, &eacute;largissant ainsi sa collection et renfor&ccedil;ant sa position unique &agrave; l'intersection de l'horlogerie et de l'automobile.
En conclusion, Atelier Jalaper se distingue par sa capacit&eacute; &agrave; fusionner l'art horloger avec l'h&eacute;ritage automobile, cr&eacute;ant des montres qui racontent une histoire unique et offrent une exp&eacute;rience &eacute;motionnelle aux passionn&eacute;s des deux univers.
Inspirez-vous des avis clients Dialicious pour choisir la montre Atelier Jalaper qui vous convient le mieux. D&eacute;couvrez &eacute;galement le <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_de_sports_mecaniques">classement des marques de montres inspir&eacute;es du sport automobile</a>.
(Mise &agrave; jour Mars 2025)

Atelier Jalaper is a Franco-Belgian watch brand founded in 2019 by Louis Jalaber and Simon Szleper. It is distinguished by a unique approach that merges traditional watchmaking with automotive heritage by integrating authentic elements of legendary cars into its watches.
<h3 dir="ltr">Origins and Foundation</h3>
Louis Jalaber and Simon Szleper met during their studies at ESCP Europe, sharing a common passion for watchmaking and automobiles. Their ambition was to create a watch that would not only be inspired by automotive design, but would truly incorporate a part of automotive history. This vision led them to found Atelier Jalaper in 2019.
<h3 dir="ltr">Concept and Philosophy</h3>
Atelier Jalaper's philosophy is based on the idea of ​​giving new life to iconic cars by integrating them into high-quality watches. Each timepiece is designed with dials made from authentic parts from legendary cars, providing enthusiasts with a tangible connection to automotive history.
<h3 dir="ltr">Collections and Models</h3>
Collection DB5
Atelier Jalaper's first collection pays homage to the Aston Martin DB5, an icon of the 1960s. The dials of these watches are cut from the aluminum cover of a real DB5, giving each piece a unique patina. The collection includes four models:
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ001-S: Model with date display, stainless steel case
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ001-B:&nbsp;Version with black PVD case
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ002-S: Model with day and date display, stainless steel case
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ002-B: Version with black PVD case
</li>
</ul>
These watches are equipped with Miyota automatic movements, offering a power reserve of 42 hours.
Collection Miura
The second collection is inspired by the Lamborghini Miura, often considered the world's first supercar. The dials are made from authentic Miura parts, and the collection offers several variations:
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ-P400-V: Version with green flange
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ-P400-N: Version with black flange
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ-P400-O: Version with orange flange
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ-P400-B: Version with blue flange
</li>
</ul>
These models are powered by Sellita SW270-1 M hand-wound movements, offering a power reserve of approximately 45 hours.
Jaguar E-Type Collection
The third collection is inspired by the Jaguar E-Type, one of the most recognizable cars of all. The dials are made from genuine parts from a 1962&nbsp;Jaguar E-Type semi-lightweight, and the collection offers two variants:
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ-003-B: Version with vertically brushed dial
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
AJ-003-W: Version with black anodized dial
</li>
</ul>
These models are driven by Sellita SW300-1 self-winding movements, offering a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.
<h3 dir="ltr">Manufacturing Process and Know-How</h3>
Atelier Jalaper collaborates with artisans and watchmaking experts based in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, to ensure exceptional quality. The manufacturing process involves precise cutting of automotive parts to create unique dials, followed by careful assembly to ensure the reliability and aesthetics of each watch.
<h3 dir="ltr">Commitment to Authenticity and Innovation</h3>
The brand is committed to preserving the authenticity of the materials used while innovating in design and functionality. Each watch is numbered and carries within it the soul of the car from which it comes, offering collectors and enthusiasts a piece of automotive history on their wrist.
<h3 dir="ltr">Reception and Future Prospects</h3>
Since its launch, Atelier Jalaper has received positive feedback for its innovative concept and the quality of its watches. The brand continues to explore new collaborations with legendary cars, expanding its collection and strengthening its unique position at the intersection of watchmaking and automobiles.&nbsp;In conclusion, Atelier Jalaper stands out for its ability to merge the art of watchmaking with automotive heritage, creating watches that tell a unique story and offer an emotional experience to enthusiasts of both worlds.
Take inspiration from Dialicious customer reviews to choose the Atelier Jalaper watch that suits you best. Also discover the <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_brands_of_motor_sports_watches">ranking of watch brands inspired by motorsport</a>.
(Updated March 2025)

The Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series is a collection of Japanese mechanical watches that combines traditional elegance with contemporary aesthetics. Launched in 2020, this series highlights Seiko's craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from Japanese cultural motifs while integrating modern designs and advanced watchmaking technologies.
<h3 dir="ltr">Design and Aesthetics</h3>
The design of the Sharp Edged Series is characterized by sharp lines and angular surfaces, giving the watches a dynamic and modern presence. The cases and bracelets feature multiple flat surfaces with sharp edges, allowing light to play on the different facets and creating a striking visual effect. Finishes alternate between mirror polished surfaces and brushed finishes, providing depth and visual richness to each piece.
The dial of each watch is decorated with the Asanoha, or hemp leaf, pattern, a geometric pattern used in Japanese art since the Heian period, more than a thousand years ago. This pattern symbolizes rapid growth and health, adding a cultural and symbolic dimension to the watch. The rich texture and intricacy of the pattern creates subtle variations in color and light depending on the angle from which it is viewed, making the dial particularly captivating.
<h3 dir="ltr">Color Variations</h3>
The collection offers several dial color variations, each reflecting a traditional Japanese hue:
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Aitetsu : A deep indigo blue, evoking strength and stability.
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Shironeri : An unbleached silky white, symbolizing purity and elegance.
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Tokiwa : A green evoking evergreen trees, representing longevity and vitality.
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Susutake : A smoky bamboo brown, bringing a touch of warmth and rusticity.
</li>
</ul>
These color choices allow wearers to choose a watch that reflects their personality while paying homage to the rich palette of Japanese culture.
<h3 dir="ltr">Technical Characteristics</h3>
Sharp Edged Series watches feature Seiko's 6R series automatic movements, known for their reliability and precision. The models with date display are equipped with the 6R35 caliber, offering a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, which is particularly valuable for daily use. The GMT versions, meanwhile, are equipped with the 6R64 caliber, allowing the display of a second time zone, a useful function for frequent travelers.
The cases measure 39.3mm in diameter with a thickness of 11.1mm, dimensions that fit a wide range of wrists and provide a balance between presence and comfort. The watches also feature a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on the interior surface, ensuring optimal readability while protecting the dial from scratches. The transparent sapphire case back allows you to admire the movement in action, adding an extra dimension to the watchmaking experience.
<h3 dir="ltr">Features</h3>
In addition to the classic display of hours, minutes and seconds, the Sharp Edged Series models offer different complications depending on the references:
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
Date Display : Some models feature a date window positioned at 3 o'clock, a practical feature for everyday use.
</li>
<li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">
GMT function : Models equipped with caliber 6R64 offer a GMT function with a dedicated hand for displaying a second time zone. The GMT hand is often colored differently for easy distinction and is coated with Lumibrite for increased readability in low light conditions. Additionally, a power reserve indicator is typically positioned at 9 o'clock, allowing the wearer to monitor the remaining energy of the movement.
</li>
</ul>
<h3 dir="ltr">Bracelet and Confort</h3>
The super-hard coated stainless steel bracelets are designed to complement the angular design of the case. The links feature a combination of polished and brushed finishes, reflecting the attention to detail and overall aesthetic of the watch. The triple fold clasp with push button ensures security and comfort when wearing.
<h3 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h3>
The Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Series embodies a successful fusion of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern design. With solid technical features, distinctive aesthetics and subtle cultural touches, this collection offers an attractive option for those seeking a quality mechanical watch that stands out for its uniqueness. Whether for everyday use or for special occasions, the Sharp Edged Series brings a touch of contemporary elegance while honoring the rich traditions of Japanese watchmaking.
Take inspiration from Dialicious customer reviews to find the watch that suits you.
(Updated March 2025)

Seiko Presage Sharp Edged Owner Review : Sporty, chic and racy

A sleek, sporty and elegant watch

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