On October 23rd we invited Oracle Time Club Members to an exclusive evening with King Seiko at the gorgeous Bond Street boutique. It was a fun evening of wristwatch discovery, accented by a spot of whisky tasting.
We were introduced to the history and importance of King Seiko by Rob Wilson, the Grand Seiko Service Manager. Prior to King Seiko’s revival in 2022, the name was last used over 57 years ago. Originally a rival to Grand Seiko, both brands were associated with the finest watchmaking abilities of their respective factories. Grand Seiko was the darling of Seiko’s first factory and King Seiko of their second. However, with the closure of the second factory, the King Seiko name disappeared. Across the past three years though, the brand has returned to spotlight with a series of distinctive watches that we were able to discover up close.
With their angular cases that feel like direct pulls from last century, moving the watches under the light to admire their every facet is essential. Not to mention the brand’s increasing focus on intricate dial patterns and intense colours. The lilac dial Ukiyo-e model was stunner, as were the more dramatic lines of the VANAC line launched earlier this year – the evening represented the first time that many OT Club members would be able to get hands on with this particular series.
On the whisky front, The Whisky Exchange was on hand to guide us through a selection of whiskies including Japanese classics from the House of Suntory like their signature Hibiki. Attendees also had the opportunity to take part in a giveaway for a bottle of Yamazaki 12 Year Old Single Malt, which I am very jealous not to have won.
It was also a fantastic chance to discuss watches with fellow enthusiasts and meet other Club members. If you haven’t signed up to become a member, what are you waiting for? Membership not only includes invitations to exclusive events like this but also a host of additional benefits such as brand discounts, 10 copies of the print magazine straight to your door and free attendance to Hands On Horology 2026.
