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Seiko’s 2022 Kabuki-inspired Presage Sharp Edged limited editions pair a patterned Kakiiro dial with two different automatic movements. The SPB329 adds day, date and power-reserve displays; the SPB331 has a simpler display and a longer listed power reserve. Seiko announced 2,000 pieces of each, with availability planned for October 2022.
What makes these Presage watches Kabuki-inspired?
Seiko developed the SPB329 and SPB331 in collaboration with Ebizo Ichikawa, a prominent Kabuki actor. Their design draws on the Asanoha, a geometric hemp-leaf pattern that Seiko says has appeared in Kabuki costume fabrics. The textured dials can shift in appearance as light moves across them.
The reddish-brown dial color is Kakiiro. Seiko describes it as a traditional color associated with the Ichikawa family and its Kabuki costumes. The underside of each leather strap is also Kakiiro, a detail Seiko connects to Edo-period clothing practices in which vivid colors could be concealed on a garment’s reverse. Seiko’s official product page describes the series as adapting “the traditional Japanese art of Kabuki to the modern age.”
The watches retain the Sharp Edged Series’ angular case and faceted indexes. Seiko says the hour and minute hands have generous Lumibrite coating to aid legibility in low light.
#1 Best Overall
- STUNNING BLUE DIAL: this automatic men's watch features a deep blue, pressed pattern and gloss finish surrounded by a stainless steel watch case
- AUTOMATIC: these self-winding, automatic men's watches are powered by your movement, with a power reserve of 41 hours
- STAINLESS STEEL: features a durable stainless steel watch case and bracelet with see through caseback
- WATER-RESISTANT: these men's wrist watches are water-resistant down to 50 meters
- 4R35 CALIBER: equipped with the reliable caliber 4R35 automatic movement, this accurate men's watch keeps precise time
SPB329 vs. SPB331: what are the differences?
| Specification | SPB329 | SPB331 |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Caliber 6R21 | Caliber 6R35 |
| Listed power reserve | 45 hours | 70 hours |
| Display | Day, date and power-reserve indicators | Simpler display than the SPB329 |
| Case diameter | 40.2 mm | 39.3 mm |
| Case thickness | 12.2 mm | 11.1 mm |
| Announced US launch price | $1,200 | $1,050 |
These dimensions and prices are Seiko’s launch specifications from 2022. The prices are historical announced US retail prices, not current resale values or evidence of present-day availability. Both watches were announced as limited editions of 2,000 pieces.
What specifications do the two watches share?
Seiko’s September 30, 2022 announcement lists the following common features:
Rank #2
- JEWEL GREEN DIAL: this men's automatic watch features a green deep, pressed dial evocative of vintage cocktail bars with a gloss finish, gold second hand, and stainless steel bezel
- AUTOMATIC: these self-winding, automatic men's watches are powered by your movement, with a power reserve of 41 hours
- STAINLESS STEEL & LEATHER: features a durable 40.5mm stainless steel watch case paired with a brown leather watch band.
- WATER-RESISTANT: these men's wrist watches are water-resistant down to 50 meters
- 4R35 CALIBER: equipped with the reliable caliber 4R35 automatic movement, this accurate men's watch keeps precise time
- Stainless-steel case with black hard coating
- Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Screw see-through case back
- Leather strap
- 10-bar water resistance
- Magnetic resistance of 4,800 A/m
When were they released, and are they available now?
Seiko announced the SPB329 and SPB331 on September 30, 2022, and planned availability at selected retail partners worldwide in October 2022. The launch announcement and product information establish the original release details, but do not verify current retail stock, resale pricing, or marketplace listings. A present-day buyer should confirm availability and seller details directly before relying on an offer.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- BLACK DIAL: this men's watch features a striking black dial, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit; LUMIBRITE HANDS: the watch is equipped with LumiBrite dial indicator hands, ensuring you can tell the time even in low light conditions
- STAINLESS STEEL CASE AND BRACELET: these durable men's watches are made with a stainless steel watch case and bracelet made to last through everyday wear
- DATE CALENDAR: with the handy calendar function, keep track of the date right on the watch face
- CALIBER 6N52 MOVEMENT: powered by the reliable Caliber 6N52, these Seiko quartz watches for men ensure accurate timekeeping
- 100M WATER RESISTANT: with a water resistance of 100M, these durable men’s wrist watches will keep you on time at the gym, in the pool, or in a downpour
Rank #4
- Timeless styling that effortlessly takes you from work to play.
- 3 Hand, Day / Date
- Rose Gold-Tone Stainless Steel
- Mineral Crystal
- 100 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
Rank #3
- SILVER DIAL: this beautiful men’s watch features a deeply-patterned, glossed silver watch dial with blue dial indicator hands and a date calendar to keep you organized
- AUTOMATIC: these self-winding automatic watches for men are powered by your natural movements, with 41 hours of reserve power
- STAINLESS STEEL: Features a durable 40.5mm stainless steel watch case with see-through caseback and a beautiful silver bracelet.
- WATER-RESISTANT: these men’s wrist watches are water-resistant to 50 meters
- 4R35 CALIBER: equipped with the reliable 4R35 caliber, this precise men’s watch ensures the most accurate automatic timekeeping
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
