Essentials Collection SWR048

Seiko's journey, which began in 1881, is a remarkable story of vision, innovation, and dedication. When Kintaro Hattori, a 21-year-old entrepreneur, opened his small shop in Tokyo’s bustling Ginza district, he laid the foundation for what would become one of the world’s most respected watchmaking companies. Initially, Hattori focused on selling and repairing watches and clocks, but his ambition was far greater. He envisioned creating timepieces that would not only be precise but also reflect the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
In 1892, just over a decade after opening his shop, Hattori took a significant step forward by founding Seikosha, a factory dedicated to producing wall clocks. The name "Seikosha" means "House of Exquisite Workmanship," and it represented Hattori’s commitment to quality. By 1913, Seikosha had produced Japan’s very first wristwatch, the Laurel, marking a historic milestone for both the company and the nation’s watchmaking industry.