Seiko is associated primarily with a wide range of moderately priced and reliable watches, but surprisingly, the watchmaking division operates within the diversified conglomerate Seiko Group, whose many specialties include upscale department stores, printers, semiconductors, machine tools, and of course, watches. Seiko has deep roots in timekeeping – founder Kintaro Hattori started to produce clocks in 1892 under the name Seikosha, and in 1969, almost swept the Swiss watchmaking industry off its feet with the introduction of Astron, the first commercial quartz watch. The brand has an enthusiastic collector base and an unparalleled breadth in the lineup that stretches from mainstream quartz to haute-horlogerie, something that is unique in the watchmaking industry, and a depth that is surprising given the wide spectrum of businesses the parent company is involved in.

Seikosha translates to “House of Exquisite Workmanship,” and Seiko’s high-end Credor line takes this very seriously. Today we’re looking at the Credor Eichi II, the second generation of exclusive time-only pieces with a breathtaking hand-painted porcelain dial and superlative finishing inspired by none other than Philippe Dufour.