Baselworld - Seiko - Seiko Premier Moonphase Kinetic Direct Drive

credit: ablogtowatch

Brand: Seiko

Model:  SRX008P1

Seiko has introduced a new Kinetic Direct Drive model at Baselworld 2015 this year. Its launched under the Premier line. It costs around RM 4000 above but its truly a remarkable watch with complications at this price range. It houses the Caliber 5D88, Kinetic Direct Drive.

The Kinetic Direct Drive movement is at the mid to high end range of the Seiko quartz movement hierarchy, nearer to the Spring Drive counterparts. The Kinetic Direct Drive improves from its Kinetic counterparts in its ability to be handwound to charge the battery. The Seiko Kinetic technology utilizes the automatic winding principle of a mechanical watch and in turn uses it to charge a capacitor. In normal Kinetic models, the only way to charge the capacitor is to wear or shake the watch. In the Kinetic Direct Drive model, in addition to the normal winding via the rotor, the user can wind and charge the capacitor through winding the crown. This model includes a power reserve indicator that shows in real time how much charge is remaining. Maximum power reserve for this model is at 1 month.

The Caliber 5D88 includes a date via a subdial at 3 oclock, day of the week, AM/PM indicator as expressed via a synchronized 24 hour hand in the subdial above 6 o'clock, as well as a moonphase indicator under 12 o'clock.

The dial is classy with Roman Numerals and a good mix of rose gold hands and silver highlights for the subdials, which makes it look formal, classy and at the same time unique, All the complications are adjusted via the crown in various positions. The moonphase is adjusted by a recessed pusher set at the left side of the case.

It has the usual characteristics of the Seiko Premier line with the dauphine hands, case shape and slightly protruding lug screws, paired with leather straps and deployant clasp as default. The case size of this model is at 40mm, with a thickness of approximate 13mm. The size is very suited as a dress and casual watch, although abit on the thick side. It comes with sapphire crystal as well as 100m water resistance.

Overall its a great looking watch, however availability in Malaysia is TBC.