The moment we put on a watch, we transcend the boundaries of fashion and transform ourselves into different people. It is an act of embodying our ideal time, way of being, and way of thinking. Therefore, what we strongly seek in a watch is not only its specifications, functions, and durability, but, first and foremost, its "passionate adventurous spirit."
During Japan's period of rapid economic growth, when the country was overflowing with vitality, wearers of King Seiko watches were transformed into heroes and made significant achievements in society. However, times have changed. As digitalization and AI have become mainstream, shrewdness and rationality dominate, leaving little trace of those vibrant days in today's society.
But something is missing! The old-fashioned heroes who once vanquished villains with their passion and powerful actions seem to exist only on the other side of CRT TVs... Or do they? The answer is no! Here is an item that retains the passion of those days while greatly improving specifications, functions, and durability since its debut in 1961. The name is King Seiko. The passionate and exuberant spirit of adventure that it embodies is the true essence of King Seiko!
Established in 1961, the King Seiko brand has introduced numerous groundbreaking watch models. Throughout its storied history, King Seiko has been closely intertwined with Japan’s rapid economic growth, serving as a reliable timekeeper for the people of the time. With the rise of quartz watches in the 1970s, it seemed that the time for the King Seiko line had passed. However, in 2022, King Seiko made a triumphant return in the modern era, embracing the concept of “The Newest Classic.”
Our exhibition showcases the talents of Kana Suzuki, an illustrator and designer at the forefront of contemporary illustration culture. The challenge of our exhibition lies in creatively narrating the King Seiko story through the lens of ‘hero manga,’ a cultural phenomenon that has significantly influenced Japanese society since the 1960s, coinciding with the birth of King Seiko.
The exhibition will also feature models of items from the story and a photo spot. We hope visitors will experience a part of King Seiko’s captivating journey through the delightful narrative and charming characters that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
King Seiko Official Website
The granddaughter of Dr. Kameido, the creator of King Seiko, Kiyoko is a highly skilled mechanic who supports Keisuke and Kuro. Though she appears cool and composed, she has a nerdy side. At 17 years old, she attends an elite girls' school.
The 20-year-old heir of the Saikoji Zaibatsu conglomerate, Kuro runs several companies. Despite his cool, reserved demeanor, he has a strong sense of justice and a competitive spirit. He transforms into the robot warrior KS1969 to battle the forces of evil!
The 18-year-old son of a watch shop owner, Keisuke is cheerful and energetic, always ready to help those in need. He has known Kiyoko since childhood. Slightly scatterbrained and habitually late, he transforms into the robot warrior KSK to fight evil!
Kana Suzuki is an illustrator who focuses on themes of "strange everyday life." She has a passion for aliens, ghosts, and other unusual phenomena. Her major works include an apparel collaboration with the Ultraseven sci-fi fantasy brand and character design for the variety show/YouTube channel Alpea Tale. Kana is also an active manga artist, having published two manga works in the monthly Spirits magazine.
Workshops for children will be held during the exhibition. Event information will be posted on the special page as soon as the details are finalized.
July 19 – September 23, 2024 / 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
(Admission until 7:45 p.m.)
Seiko Seed
1-14-30 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001 WITH HARAJUKU 1F
JR Yamanote Line HARAJUKU Sta. East Gate
Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line & Fukutoshin Line MEIJI-JINGUMAE〈HARAJUKU〉 Sta.
Seiko Watch Corporation
Kana Suzuki
Free
*The exhibition contents are subject to change without prior notice.
*Watches are not available for sale at the exhibition.