The Japanese Lunar New Year, or Shōgatsu (正月), is a celebration of renewal, reflection, and togetherness. Rooted in centuries-old customs, it symbolises a fresh start and brings families together.
While Japan predominantly celebrates Shōgatsu on January 1st following the Gregorian calendar, echoes of Lunar New Year traditions can still be observed, particularly in communities tied to historical customs.
In 2025, the Lunar New Year falls on Wednesday, January 29th, making it an ideal time to exchange meaningful gifts that honour the season’s spirit.
The Significance of Shōgatsu or Lunar New Year in Japan
Shōgatsu is Japan's most important holiday, focused on welcoming good fortune and leaving behind the past year. Key traditions include:
- - Kagami Mochi: Stacked rice cakes symbolising prosperity and harmony.
- - Kadomatsu: Bamboo and pine decorations inviting good spirits into homes.
- - Osechi Ryori: Elaborate dishes, each carrying symbolic meanings of health, happiness, and wealth.
Although Japan has largely followed the Gregorian calendar since 1873, Lunar New Year celebrations still thrive in certain regions, preserving deep-rooted traditions. During this season of renewal, gifting remains an integral part of the festivities. A Seiko watch - celebrated for its precision, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance - makes a thoughtful and meaningful gift to mark the occasion
Top 5 Seiko Watches to Celebrate the Lunar New Year
Seiko watches epitomise Japanese excellence, blending tradition, innovation, and impeccable design. They resonate with the themes of the New Year - renewal, prosperity, and elegance - making them an ideal gift for this auspicious time.
1. Seiko Prospex 1965 Revival Tide Grey 100th Anniversary Special Edition
A tribute to Seiko’s pioneering diver’s watch, this model combines tradition with modern sustainability. The tide grey bezel and gold accents reflect renewal and history, aligning perfectly with the spirit of the Lunar New Year.
Key Features:
- - Automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve.
- - Eco-friendly strap crafted from recycled materials.
- - 300m water resistance with durable sapphire crystal glass.
This timepiece is a thoughtful gift for individuals who appreciate innovation and timeless design.
2. Seiko Presage Classic Shiro-iro White Watch
The “Shiro-iro” watch celebrates the purity and elegance of Japanese silk, with a pristine white dial symbolising fresh beginnings - perfect for Japanese Lunar Year traditions.
Key Features:
- - 72-hour power reserve with manual winding.
- - Vintage-inspired design with a multi-row bracelet.
- - Water resistance of 100 metres for daily wear.
Ideal for those who value sophistication and cultural heritage in their accessories.
3. Seiko Mens Astron GPS Solar Silver Tone Watch
As the world’s first GPS solar watch, this Astron model symbolises Seiko’s cutting-edge innovation. Its unparalleled accuracy and modern design make it a fitting representation of progress for the New Year.
Key Features:
- - 5X83 solar GPS calibre with a six-month power reserve.
- - Sleek titanium case with scratch-resistant coating.
- - Advanced functionality combined with minimalist aesthetics.
A perfect gift for tech-savvy individuals or modern design enthusiasts.
4. Seiko King Seiko Metropolis Silver 1969 Watch
Paying homage to Japan’s rich history, this limited-edition watch features a dial inspired by Edo-period artistry and chrysanthemum motifs - a symbol of Japan's imperial heritage.
Key Features:
- - Exclusively limited to 600 pieces.
- - Slim 10.7mm case and diamond-cut indices for elegance.
- - 6L35 automatic movement for precise timekeeping.
An extraordinary gift for those who cherish exclusivity and cultural symbolism.
5. Seiko Prospex 1965 Revival Cove Black Watch
This robust timepiece evokes Japan’s rugged coastlines, with a durable design that represents resilience and adventure. The cove black bezel and Lumibrite hands ensure elegance and functionality.
Key Features:
- - 300m water resistance with a 72-hour power reserve.
- - Durable build with short-pitch bracelet links for added comfort.
- - 6R55 automatic movement for enhanced precision.
Ideal for adventure lovers who value both style and practicality.
Celebrate the Japanese Lunar New Year with Seiko
Seiko watches transcend their role as timepieces, embodying craftsmanship, precision, and cultural pride. Gifting a Seiko watch during the Japanese Lunar New Year is a meaningful gesture, representing prosperity, good fortune, and timeless elegance.
This Japanese Lunar New Year, honour the season with a gift that combines innovation, tradition, and artistry. Explore our collection of Seiko watches at T.H.Baker to find the perfect timepiece for your loved ones.
