2026-11-06 · Watches And More
What happens when a watch designer takes a nickname literally? In its announcement dated 2026-10-06, Seiko explained how in-house designer Kiyotaka Sakai turned the “panda” chronograph into an actual panda-inspired watch. As Seiko describes the familiar convention, a white dial and contrasting black subdials supplied the starting point. Sakai took the animal reference further. [S1] [S1] [S1]
💡 Did You Know?
According to Seiko’s design explanation, the face is built from functional parts: drooping-eye subdials establish the expression, bamboo-leaf hands indicate the time, and recessed ear-shaped pushers operate the chronograph. An embossed radial dial pattern supplies the suggestion of fur, with a nose and mouth positioned at six o’clock. [S2] [S2]
The idea also comes in pink. Seiko describes two interpretations: the familiar black-and-white animal and a pink version inspired by a newborn baby panda. The animal reference therefore shapes more than the arrangement of contrasting subdials. [S1]
⭐ Why It Matters
Seiko places the design’s origins in its 2024 “Incredibly Specialized Watch Exhibition,” where seven designers explored seven specialized watches, including one for panda lovers. The company describes the wider power design project, first presented in 2001, as a space for its designers to investigate watches differently from their everyday work. [S1] [S1] [S1]
❤️ The W&M Take
In our view, the charm is in giving the joke a job. We think the strongest playful designs reward a second look without needing a complicated explanation. Here, the appeal is not simply a cute face: it is the pleasure of seeing familiar controls become part of the character. For us, that makes this a design conversation worth having, whether or not a literal panda belongs in your collection.
Sources
- Seiko expands its power design project collection with a most literal panda chronograph
- Seiko power design project collection 2
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to keep these watch facts accurate, but the world of horology is full of myths, disputed stories, and fascinating trivia. Consider these facts a starting point for discovery rather than the final word. If you have corrections or additional insights, let us know—we’re always happy to keep the record ticking in the right direction.
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Watches And More · Watch Fact Archive · Companion site
Would you choose a chronograph that embraces its panda nickname this literally, or do you prefer the animal reference to remain an abstraction?
