Experience the Art of Time: Where Japanese Craftsmanship Meets Horological Innovation
The Legacy and Evolution of Credor: From Niche Japanese Brand to International Recognition
While Grand Seiko has garnered significant global recognition, Credor, established in 1974 as Seiko Corporation's premium division, maintains a distinctive, exclusive identity. Originally focused on exquisitely decorated, ultra-thin dress watches for the Japanese market, Credor recently expanded its international presence with the 2024 launch of the Locomotive. Its debut at Watches and Wonders 2026 marks another significant milestone, with the unveiling of the Goldfeather GBBY967, featuring a traditional urushi lacquer dial in a profound blue hue.
Reviving a Classic: The Goldfeather's Journey Through Time
The Goldfeather series traces its origins to 1960, celebrated for its slender dress watches powered by Seiko's groundbreaking ultra-thin mechanical calibre 60. This movement, followed by the 1.98mm thick calibre 6800 in 1969, laid the foundation for Credor's high-end aspirations. Reimagined in 2023, the contemporary Goldfeather collection seeks to capture the ethereal lightness and grace implied by its name. Following successful enamel and porcelain iterations, the latest GBBY967 edition distinguishes itself with a meticulously handcrafted urushi lacquered dial.
Masterful Design: The Allure of the Platinum Case and Hand-Lacquer Dial
Reflecting the collection's refined aesthetic, the new Goldfeather GBBY967 boasts a hand-polished platinum case, measuring 37.4mm in diameter and a mere 8.1mm in thickness. The true centerpiece, however, is its breathtaking deep blue, hand-lacquered dial, which captures the eye with its intricate artistry.
The Art of Urushi: Crafting the Gradient Blue Dial
The distinctive rich blue, rarely seen in urushi lacquer, displays a captivating gradient effect, transitioning from nearly black at the edges to a more vibrant blue at the center. Credor's skilled artisans achieve this depth through the ancient urushi lacquer technique. This process involves applying multiple layers of lacquered resin, each with varying pigment saturation, allowing each layer to dry before the next. The final, flawlessly smooth, glossy surface is then achieved through precise whetstone polishing, showcasing an unparalleled level of detail and craftsmanship.
Elevated Details: Taka Maki-e and Platinum Accents
Beyond the urushi lacquer, another sophisticated artisanal method, taka maki-e, is employed to create the raised hour markers and inscriptions on the dial. Unlike traditional maki-e, which uses gold or silver powder, the three-dimensional elements on the GBBY967 are coated with fine platinum powder. A domed sapphire crystal protects this exquisite dial, and the minutes hand is artfully curved to trace the dial's perimeter, reaching precisely to its edge.
Precision at its Core: The Ultra-Thin Calibre 6890 Movement
Driving the Goldfeather GBBY967 is the in-house calibre 6890, an exceptionally slender mechanical movement measuring just 1.98mm in thickness. Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, this movement offers a power reserve of 37 hours, ensuring reliable timekeeping within its elegant proportions.
Exquisite Finishing and Exclusivity: Price and Availability
The watch is paired with a sophisticated black crocodile leather strap, secured by a platinum buckle, completing its luxurious presentation. The Credor Goldfeather Urushi Lacquer Dial GBBY967 is a highly exclusive offering, limited to just 25 pieces globally, and is priced at EUR 39,000, underscoring its rarity and artisanal value. Additional details are available on credor.com.