he Horological Society of New York (HSNY), America’s oldest watchmaking guild, founded in 1866, has opened its 2024 exhibit, “The Evolution of Seiko and Grand Seiko”. This unique exhibit offers a fascinating journey through the evolution, artistry, and intricate craftsmanship of Japanese timekeeping through the lens of Seiko and Grand Seiko with a collection that spans centuries.

“The Evolution of Seiko and Grand Seiko” exhibit features specially curated timepieces that have never left The Seiko Museum Ginza until now, beginning with wadokei from the early 19th century to the first Japanese wristwatch (Seikosha Laurel), the world’s first watch that used a quartz crystal (Seiko Quartz Astron), and Grand Seiko’s first model (Grand Seiko 3180).

Now on display at HSNY’s Jost Bürgi Research Library, the exhibit allows visitors the rare opportunity to explore the intricate designs and technological advancements that helped put Japan on the horological map, including revolutionary railroad watches, self-winding chronographs, Olympic timers, the first wristwatch with an audio recording function, and of course, Spring Drive.

Timepieces on display were carefully hand-delivered from their permanent home at The Seiko Museum Ginza, a six-story time capsule showcasing archives from one of Japan’s most important watch brands. Additional timepieces from the personal collection of Joseph Kirk, Brand Curator and Director of Marketing, Grand Seiko Corporation of America, complete the 25-item exhibit. This marks the first time many of the timepieces have been on loan.

“Our aim with ’The Evolution of Seiko and Grand Seiko’ exhibit is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the evolution of these famous brands,” said Nicholas Manousos, HSNY Executive Director. “We wish to thank our friends at Seiko and Grand Seiko for entrusting us with the care of their treasures and for helping us to meet our mission of advancing the art and science of horology.”

“The Evolution of Seiko and Grand Seiko” exhibit is complemented by a fully illustrated catalog, which includes original photography by Atom Moore and a preface by Brice Le Troadec, President, Grand Seiko Corporation of America, and Global Strategy Officer, Seiko Watch Corporation. The print catalog is available for purchase in-person and online, and is available for free digitally on the HSNY website.

“The Evolution of Seiko and Grand Seiko” is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free. HSNY is located at 20 West 44th Street, Suite 501, New York, NY 10036. Learn more at https://hs-ny.org/exhibits.