Seiko Explores The Unique Art Of Bonsai In Its New Presage Classic HCC009J1

Although it’s the heart of the summer break, Seiko is definitely not taking any time off. We have been enjoying a steady stream of releases from the Japanese brand. At Fratello, we are in the lucky position to see some of the new releases up front. The last time we were given a preview of the watches coming out, one stood out to me. The Seiko Presage Classic HCC009 is one of those watches that you will not forget. A quick glance might suggest that it’s because of its gold color, but you would be wrong. It’s that stunning green dial that is completely mesmerizing once you see it. It makes this special collaborative limited-edition with Tradman’s Bonsai one of the most interesting Seiko releases in recent years.

Getting back to the gold color of the watch. I am a bot of a purist when it comes to gold watches. When considering a gold or two-tone watch, I prefer watches made with real gold, not a PVD treatment. It’s the same feeling I get from fauxtina, like they’re trying to be something that they’re not. At the same time, I see the visual attraction of some gold-colored watches. This new Seiko Presage Classic HCC009 is the perfect example. Would it have been a great watch in stainless steel? Sure! But the combination of the gold PVD case and bracelet with the special dark green Bonsai dial is what made me fall head over heels for this limited edition.

The details of the new Seiko Presage Classic HCC009

Let’s go over the details of the new release. The HCC009 has a 38mm stainless steel case that is 12.9mm thick and measures 43.8mm from lug to lug. The gold PVD case has a fluted bezel that adds character to its classic design. On the right side of the case, you will find the oversized crown that is partly recessed into the case. Thanks to its size, it is super easy to operate. Seiko uses this case for a line of models in 36mm, 38mm, and 40mm sizes. In my opinion, the 38mm version hits the sweet spot for this classic style.

The case is paired with a beautiful dark green dial. It was created in collaboration with Tradman’s Bonsai, a creative collective specializing in producing and curating “bonsai spaces.” The company’s mission is to share the traditional art of bonsai with the world.

But instead of just honoring the essence of bonsai, which is rooted in the spirit of hospitality and selflessness, Tradman’s Bonsai also embraces innovation. It does so through collaborations with various companies rooted in culture, fashion, and art. The inspiration behind the collaborative effort with Seiko is the serene beauty of a Japanese black pine bonsai tree illuminated by the moon. As you might have guessed, the glow of the moon is expressed through the gold-tone case and bracelet.

The dial is the big eyechatcher

The dial’s pattern is inspired by the character and texture that develops on aging pine trees over time. It is a wonderful motif that is always present but reveals its true beauty only when you focus on it. The beautiful pine-needle green, or matsuba-iro in Japanese, dial color is a traditional Japanese hue long regarded as a symbol of good fortune. I love this dial color because it is a rich, deep green that oozes class and sophistication. The combination of the pattern and the color truly makes this a wonderful dial. I think it’s one of the best I’ve seen from Seiko recently.

The dial features applied gold-toned hour markers, a minute track on the rehaut, and text on the dial, all executed in gold tone. Lastly, the gold-colored hands hover over the dial, finishing the look in style. As you can see, the contrast between the gold and the green is striking, but feels rather balanced. Once you see the watch from up close, the abundance of gold works really well.

Finishing the look is a seven-row gold-toned bracelet that fits the overall style nicely. If you are not the biggest fan of a gold bracelet or want to change things up, the watch comes with an additional leather strap featuring a texture inspired by pine trees and a gold-colored pin buckle.

The Seiko 6R51 Caliber

Powering the HCC009 is Seiko’s in-house 6R51 caliber, visible through the sapphire case back. The automatic movement operates at 21,600vph, has 24 jewels, and offers a 72-hour power reserve. The brand introduced this true no-date, time-only movement in 2024 with the Studio Ghibli Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind limited edition. It is based on the Seiko 6R55 caliber but loses the date. It’s a pivotal part in making this new Tradman’s Bonsai limited edition such a great watch. A date window would have needlessly broken up the beautiful, clean look of this special dial.

Wearing the Seiko Presage Classic Tradman’s Bonsai Limited Edition

As you would have guessed, I loved wearing the new Tradman’s Bonsai limited edition for the short time that I spent with the watch. The size is perfect for my wrist at 38mm, and the look is brilliant. I completely understand that it’s a bit of an acquired taste, since it’s not your typical stainless-steel Presage model. Then again, Seiko’s Presage Classis series has more gold-colored watches in the line-up, so it’s far from a strange sight. But what I was smitten by was the watch’s vintage appeal. In practice, the gold is not loud and blingy, and the combination with the green dial gives it a rustic feel that I adore.

I only had a chance to try on the watch with the bracelet, and I would definitely choose it as my go-to option. While a leather strap dresses it down nicely for more formal occasions, the bracelet is my preferred daily option. The bracelet is flexible and super comfortable thanks to its seven-row construction. It was the cherry on top after falling in love with the HCC009’s looks. As you will understand, I had a hard time taking the watch off my wrist after only wearing it for a short time. That’s how impressed I was with it. Honestly, I didn’t see it coming. It’s also why this article has become a song of praise. I simply didn’t expect to see this Tradman’s Bonsai limited edition, nor did I think I would like it as much as I did.

Final thoughts on the Seiko Presage Classic HCC009

Overall, this is an interesting release from Seiko. First, I love the concept and the looks. Secondly, it made me dive deeper into the wonderful world of Bonsai trees. I quickly found myself reading about the art of Bonsai in general and then about Tradman’s Bonsai in particular. I can genuinely say that after reading about the basics, I definitely want to know more about Bonsai and its rich history. For a watch to trigger that is pretty awesome. This limited edition will hopefully help draw more people into the world of bonsai.

Seiko will create 2,000 pieces of the HCC009. These will go on sale on the 1st of September 2026, priced at €1,400. The watch will be exclusively available at Seiko boutiques and selected retailers worldwide. That number might seem like a lot, but I can see why this special release will sell out in no time. As I mentioned, it is a bit of an acquired taste, given its all-gold presence. But knowing how good it is, it will sell quickly. My best proof of that would be the initial hesitation and dismissal I felt upon seeing a gold PVD model as a gold purist, and how quickly it disappeared. I left the Seiko offices with this watch as my clear favorite among a large number of new introductions, which tells you all you need to know.