Introducing The New King Seiko KS69

June 10, 2024

"What in the world is King Seiko?" we asked when the brand re-launched in 2022. At the time, it was a valid question for a brand that had been left in the '60s. But, with the introduction of the KSK, people have started to discover King Seiko's story. Now, the brand is back with its second model lineup, the KS1969. ? The new KS1969 lineup (references SJE109, 111, 113, and 115) is based on the King Seiko 45KCM from 1969, using a steel case that's somewhere between C-shaped and tonneau. The mirror-polished case measures 39.4x9.9mm. The KS1969 also introduces a new, multi-row bracelet with alternating brushed and polished surfaces that add to the watch's mid-century vibe. It has a push-button butterfly clasp, which means no microadjust.? There are three standard dial variations: silver, "Edo purple," and vignette green. All have a finely-grained and textured finish. There's also a light blue "dragon scale" dial that's a limited edition of 700 pieces to mark Seiko's 100th anniversary. The 3 o'clock date wheel also matches the dial color on the general production references.? The limited edition SJE115 Inside is Seiko's "slimline" caliber 6L35, a thin automatic movement with a 45-hour power reserve. It is basically Seiko's competitor to the ETA 2892, with similar performance and measurement specs. Seiko introduced the 6L series of calibers in 2018 as an upgrade over its R series calibers. Even with the new movement, Seiko says the accuracy is just +15/-10 seconds per day. The first KSK had a 6R movement but was priced at $1,700. ?? The KS1969 represents a big jump in price from 2022's KSK: $3,100. All four references will be available beginning in July. The light blue dial (SJE115) is a limited edition of 700 pieces, but none of the other references are limited. What We Think King Seiko seems to have paid attention to the case and bracelet of the KS1969, making sure it stays faithful to the original 45KCM introduced in 1969. It also adds a bracelet that, while new, feels era-appropriate for a dress-style watch from the '60s.? While the 6L35 represents a step up from the KSKthe Credor caliber CR01 in the new Locomotive actually builds on the 6L's architectureit comes with a price tag. And, it doesn't come with better accuracy. The KS1969 is nearly double the price of the original KSK. This squeezes King Seiko somewhere between a higher-end Seiko dress watch and an entry-level Grand Seiko. Whether King Seiko represents an accessible Grand Seiko or an expensive Seiko is a matter of perception and what elements of the watch are most important to you. When Mark introduced the King Seiko SJE095 last year, he said he was still waiting to be "blown away" by the brand. While this latest slate of releases looks nicely executed, I feel the same way, especially as KS has moved up substantially in price since its 2022 relaunch.? The original King Seiko 45KCM that inspired the new KS1969. The Basics Brand: King Seiko Model: KS1969Reference Numbers: SJE109, SJE111, SJE 113, SJE115Diameter: 39.4mmThickness: 9.9mmCase Material: Stainless steelDial Color: Silver, purple, green, or light blue-greenCrystal: Box-shaped sapphireIndexes: AppliedWater Resistance: 50 metersStrap/Bracelet: Steel multi-row bracelet The Movement Caliber: Seiko caliber 6L35Functions: Time and dateDiameter: 25.6mmThickness: 3.7mmPower Reserve: 45 hoursWinding: AutomaticFrequency: 28,800 beats per hourJewels: 26 Pricing & Availability Price: $3,100Availability: Beginning in July 2024Limited Edition: SLE 115 (light blue-green dial) is a 100th anniversary limited of 700 pieces; other references are not limitedFor more, visit Seiko's website. Shop this story Hodinkee is an authorized retailer of Seiko watches. For more information about these specific models, visit Seiko's website.