New
Timekeepers Club / December 25, 2025

King Seiko Vanac SLA093 & SLA095

The King Seiko Vanac collection, born in the daring 1970s, has always stood as a symbol of avant-garde design and technical audacity. In January 2026, the lineup expands with two landmark additions that do more than just complement the series—they redefine the very perception of Vanac. Models SDKV013 and SDKV015 (known globally as SLA093 and SLA095) blend the aggressive geometry of the past with the sophistication of modern premium accessories.

A notable update for this release is the introduction of a leather strap. This marks the first time in the history of the King Seiko Vanac collection that a model has been officially equipped with leather instead of the traditional steel bracelet. This addition broadens the collection's versatility, offering a refined alternative that complements both casual and formal attire while maintaining the line's distinct character.

The straps are crafted from eco-friendly leather certified by the LWG (Leather Working Group). They feature a specific seamless design that visually extends the lines of the 41mm case, creating an integrated look. Completing the ensemble is a sophisticated push-button deployment clasp; it is engineered so that the tip of the strap tucks neatly inside against the wrist, ensuring a smooth profile and exceptional wearing comfort.

The color palette of the new models is inspired by Tokyo's landscapes. The SDKV013 (SLA093) features a deep dark brown dial with golden accents, reminiscent of the cozy atmosphere of classic executive studies. The second newcomer, the SDKV015 (SLA095), is finished in a "Urban Green" gradient, a nod to the lush greenery of Meiji gardens set against an urban backdrop. Both dials retain the signature horizontal texture and a complex system of faceted indices.

The technical side of the watches matches their high status. Inside beats the Caliber 8L45—one of Seiko’s finest automatic movements, hand-assembled at the Shizukuishi Watch Studio. This movement is essentially a "civilian" version of Grand Seiko calibers, providing an impressive accuracy of +10 to -5 seconds per day and a robust 72-hour (3-day) power reserve, allowing the watch to be set aside over a long weekend without stopping.

For ease of navigation, collectors should keep in mind the dual model numbering system. The reference numbers SDKV013 and SDKV015 are intended exclusively for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). For the international market, these same models are labeled as SLA093 and SLA095. This is crucial when searching for the watches on global platforms or in official boutiques, as the technical specifications of the models are absolutely identical.

The case of these novelties retains its famous angular, bezel-less shape inspired by crystal formations. The complex Zaratsu-style mirror polishing on the side facets creates a dynamic play of light that was the hallmark of the original 1972 models. Despite the elegance of the leather strap, the watches remain durable: a box-shaped sapphire crystal and 100-meter water resistance make them a reliable companion for any situation.

In keeping with the heritage of the King Seiko line, the watches feature a solid screw-down caseback. This back is adorned with the traditional King Seiko medallion, a symbol of quality and a nod to the premium chronometers of the 1960s and 70s. This choice preserves the historical integrity of the watch, favoring classic branding over a modern exhibition view.

Pricing is also divided geographically. In Japan, the recommended retail price is ¥385,000 (including tax), while the European retail price is set at €3,300. The difference is due to tax policies and brand positioning in different markets. Nevertheless, the switch to a leather strap has made these models slightly more accessible (approximately €100 less) than the versions on a steel bracelet.

In conclusion, the arrival of the SDKV013 and SDKV015 models on leather straps marks the final maturation of the King Seiko Vanac collection. By combining the historical "funk" of the seventies, the top-tier 8L45 movement, and the soft aesthetic of leather—a first for the series—these watches become the ideal choice for those seeking uniqueness and charisma in every detail of their image.

Technical specifications


King Seiko Vanac SDKV013

Reference: SLA093J1

Case

  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Diameter: 41mm
  • Thickness:14.3mm
  • Lug-to-lug: 45.1mm
  • Glass: Box shaped sapphire crystal
  • Screw-down crown
  • Screw case back
  • Water-resistant to 100 meters
  • Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
  • Weight: 103.0g

Dial and hands

  • Dark brown dial with golden accents
  • Lumibrite on hands and index(es)

Movement

  • Calibre 8L45
  • Automatic with manual winding
  • Precision: +10 to -5 seconds per day
  • Power reserve of 72 hours (3 days)
  • Number of jewels: 35
  • Frequency: 4 Hz, 28,800 vibrations per hour (8 beats per second)

Functions/Indications

  • Hours, minutes, seconds
  • Stop second hand function
  • Date display

Strap and buckle

  • Cow leather
  • Three-fold clasp with push button release
  • Lug width: 17mm

MSRP

  • EUR 3'300
  • JPY 385'000

Technical specifications


King Seiko Vanac SDKV015

Reference: SLA095J1

Case

  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Diameter: 41mm
  • Thickness:14.3mm
  • Lug-to-lug: 45.1mm
  • Glass: Box shaped sapphire crystal
  • Screw-down crown
  • Screw case back
  • Water-resistant to 100 meters
  • Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
  • Weight: 103.0g

Dial and hands

  • Green dial with golden accents
  • Lumibrite on hands and index(es)

Movement

  • Calibre 8L45
  • Automatic with manual winding
  • Precision: +10 to -5 seconds per day
  • Power reserve of 72 hours (3 days)
  • Number of jewels: 35
  • Frequency: 4 Hz, 28,800 vibrations per hour (8 beats per second)

Functions/Indications

  • Hours, minutes, seconds
  • Stop second hand function
  • Date display

Strap and buckle

  • Cow leather
  • Three-fold clasp with push button release
  • Lug width: 17mm

MSRP

  • EUR 3'300
  • JPY 385'000
For more information, please visit seikowatches.com

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