The Manual Wind: Seiko Re-Craft Mechanical

By Ian Schwam Published December 17, 2014

manual wind seiko re craft mechanical — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The watch world has been bringing back the 60s and 70s with a vengeance, and heritage can be costly. The brands with the history and designs of the past are not often affordable. Omega, Longines, and Jaeger LeCoultre are just a few examples of some brands that have brought back the classics but may also be out of reach. One name as recognizable as the aforementioned yet more known for its Quartz movement has entered the affordable mechanical arena. With redesign and 70s style, Seiko introduces the Re-Craft.

At a sizable 43.5mm, the Re-craft mechanicals still have some modern attributes. To start, there is an exhibition caseback revealing the Seiko 40 hour power reserve mechanical movement. A screw down crown offers water resistance to 5atm, which is plenty for the average watch wearer. Offered in many variations, Seiko has designed a piece in this line for just about everyone. The cases are offered in steel, gold tone, as well as black coating. The dials match well and give each of the pieces unique personality. Vintage style in modern cases.

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Offered on straps and metal bracelets, Seiko has designed a mechanical line with versatility, style, and most importantly around holiday time, affordability. The ability to manufacture aesthetically pleasing mechanical timepieces at affordable pricing looks to be becoming more commonplace. With the introduction of the Swatch Sistem51 also, this trend is starting to prove itself. Everyone should be able to afford a nice mechanical watch and big movement manufacturers such as Swatch Group and Seiko are helping make that happen. Take a look at the complete line of Seiko Re-Craft Mechanical! Great looking pieces for $300 and under.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Contributing writer and watch enthusiast Ian Schwam dons an expert knowledge of all things watches. Having spent a decade in…

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