Seiko’s Presage line has long been a showcase for the brand’s ability to blend traditional Japanese artistry with reliable watchmaking. Among its many design stories, the Japanese Garden sub-series has stood out for its ability to translate the serenity of Zen gardens into dial textures and layouts. For 2025, Seiko introduces three new references — SSA465, SSA466, and SSA468 — that expand this theme with fresh dial colors and the signature open-heart layout, offering enthusiasts a contemporary take on timeless Japanese aesthetics.

What’s New

The latest additions build on the established Japanese Garden concept by introducing new dial tones inspired by natural elements. The SSA465 features a soft light pink dial inspired by blossom trees, the SSA466 presents a rich brown dial reminiscent of Kyoto’s autumn leaves, and the SSA468 comes in a golden sand tone. Each dial carries the signature sand-pattern texture, echoing the raked patterns of a traditional Karesansui dry garden, highlighting Seiko’s blend of Japanese artistry and precise mechanical craftsmanship.

All three watches are standard collection models, not limited editions, ensuring broader accessibility for collectors who appreciate Seiko’s balance of decorative artistry and dependable mechanics. Their release marks a continuation of Seiko’s approach of refining core Presage designs with incremental updates in color, texture, and finish, while keeping the underlying proportions and mechanics familiar.

Design Breakdown

The stainless steel cases measure 41.8mm in diameter, a size that balances wrist presence with wearability. The rounded case profile, polished surfaces, and elegant lugs contribute to a dress-leaning character, consistent with the Presage identity. A mixture of brushed and polished finishing helps catch light without appearing overly flashy, while the crown at 3 o’clock ensures traditional handling.

The dial is the focal point of the Japanese Garden series. The sand-pattern texture radiates from the open-heart aperture at 9 o’clock, evoking the concentric ripples of raked gravel found in temple gardens. Applied indices provide depth, while the dauphine hands with luminous treatment ensure legibility even in dim conditions. A power reserve indicator arcs across the upper right side of the dial, adding both symmetry and functional detail.

Each colorway reinforces the collection’s theme: the SSA465’s light pink evokes cherry blossoms reflected on garden sand, the SSA466’s rich brown dial recalls the color-changing autumnal leaves of Kyoto, and the SSA468’s golden dial suggests sunlight glinting off Zen garden sand. Together, they create a varied palette that retains the signature Japanese Garden aesthetic while offering buyers distinct options to suit their style.

The SSA465 and SSA466 come fitted with stainless steel bracelets with deployment clasps, providing a versatile and slightly more formal look. The SSA468 features a matching gold-tone stainless steel bracelet, complementing the golden dial for a cohesive, luxurious appearance.

Movement & Specs

All three models are powered by the Seiko calibre 4R39, an automatic movement operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. The calibre drives central hour and minute hands, a small seconds display, a 24-hour subdial, and the open-heart aperture, offering a clear view of the oscillating balance wheel. While not positioned as a high-end movement, the 4R39 is a reliable workhorse underpinning much of Seiko’s mid-tier mechanical lineup.

Beyond the movement itself, these watches feature a box-shaped Hardlex crystal, combining Seiko’s proprietary hardened mineral glass with subtle curvature for enhanced legibility and reflection control. The case measures 41.8mm in diameter and 12.5mm in thickness, providing a comfortable yet noticeable wrist presence. With a water resistance of 50 meters and a screw-down case back that doubles as an exhibition window, the watches blend practical durability with visual appeal. The combination of movement reliability, protective crystal, and balanced case dimensions ensures these new Japanese Garden models are both functional and aesthetically satisfying for daily wear.

Final Thoughts

The new Presage Japanese Garden releases — SSA465, SSA466, and SSA468 — represent Seiko’s consistent strategy of refining successful design concepts with fresh executions. They don’t reinvent the wheel, but they expand the options available to collectors who admire the tranquil, textural quality of the Japanese Garden motif. These models continue to embody Seiko’s philosophy of bringing Japanese artistry into the everyday lives of watch enthusiasts.

Specs, Pricing & Availability

Brand: Seiko

Model: Presage Japanese Garden

References: SSA465, SSA466, SSA468

Dial: Textured sand-pattern inspired by Zen gardens with open-heart display

Case Material: Stainless steel

Diameter: 41.8mm

Thickness: 12.5mm

Crystal: Box-shaped Hardlex

Case Back: Exhibition (see-through)

Water Resistance: 50 meters

Strap/Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet

Lug Width: 20mm

Movement: Automatic Seiko calibre 4R39

Power Reserve: Approximately 41 hours

Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, 24-hour display, open-heart

Price: Expected retail around €600–€700

Availability: September 2025

Limited Edition: No