The base model I chose is the Time Sonar, an automatic chronograph launched in 1976. I thought it was cool because of its playful design inspired by the sonar (detection device) of a submarine, which was distinct from the orthodox measuring instruments for upper elementary and junior high school students at that time. I took the theme of REBIRTH as meaning “to show the original design, but in a new way,” and thought of channeling it into a new mechanical watch that can be enjoyed by younger people.

The idea was inspired by fortune-telling contents on apps and social media that is updated daily. I thought it would be great if there was a watch that could also display a different message every day.

While retaining the features of the original model, in which the calendar is visible through the dial, familiar English words are printed on the discs in place of the calendar. By combining the “day of the week” (two words for each day of the week, for a total of 14 words) and the “date” (31 words), a total of 434 different messages are generated. These messages change daily through a new mechanism that increases the number of feeds of the calendar, which switches at midnight, for an enjoyable surprise. I hope that you will enjoy the fun of a unique mechanical watch such as this one.

The calendar function on the dial of the original model became, after its rebirth, a device that captures the imagination of the user through the messages it displays.

The case back is made of rounded glass, just as in the original model. The contrast with the sharp shape of the front is also a key point to its design.

The words on the discs were also considered and arranged to provide an incentive to bring about change in daily life. There are a total of 434 word combinations.

Perhaps it is a reflection of the current state of the world, but I feel that more and more products focus on “feelings.” It is precisely because of this that I wanted to create a unique watch that would encourage the wearer. For example, when the message “you help bird” appears, it is unlikely that the wearer will actually encounter a situation where they have to save a bird. However, it would be fun to expand the idea to something like, “Oh, let’s just gaze at the sky for a moment,” or “OK, let’s go to the park.” I would be happy if you could use it in such a playful way, letting yourself be guided by the whimsical messages coming out of this mechanical device and your own imagination.

This watch is filled with various messages that may encourage the wearer and lead to unexpected discoveries.

Kiko Goda 
Goda joined Seiko in 2017 and is now in charge of designing Seiko brand watches, with a focus on Presage.

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