Seiko's Surprising New Spin on a Niche Tool Watch
A unique collaboration brings a fresh perspective to a lesser-known Seiko masterpiece.
The Metronome, a 2022 release, is an unconventional timepiece within the brand's catalog, designed with a specific purpose: to keep time for musicians. With its built-in metronome function, it's a tool watch in the truest sense, but one that has flown under the radar for many enthusiasts.
But here's where it gets interesting: renowned Japanese designer Hiroshi Fujiwara, known for his Fragment brand, has reimagined this deep-cut Seiko model. He has quietly unveiled two new versions of the Metronome, a black-dialed and a white-dialed variant, through his VA Tokyo concept store.
These watches feature a subtle, minimalist design, with a 36mm case housing Seiko's PA50 quartz movement. The black NATO strap and polished hardware complement the overall aesthetic. However, the real star is the metronome function, offering a tempo range of 40 to 304 beats per minute.
This collaboration raises an intriguing question: is it a missed opportunity to limit such a unique watch to a small release?
The Metronome's current availability is limited, with both models sold out online and secondhand prices reaching $1,000, a significant increase from the original retail price of approximately $288. While Seiko continues to release new collaborations and models, the future of the Metronome remains uncertain.
Seiko's collaboration with Sega and Grand Seiko's latest Snowflake release demonstrate the brand's diverse offerings. But what about the Metronome? Is it destined to remain a collector's item or will it get a wider release? Only time will tell.
Written by Jack Seemer, executive editor at Gear Patrol, bringing over a decade of expertise in product journalism. His work covers a broad spectrum, from watches and footwear to cookware and everyday carry items.
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