Titanium Watches: A Brief History and Seiko’s Unique Version

Titanium undoubtedly is considered a premium material among manufacturing industries and consumers alike. This metal alloy is regarded as a good material for various structures and products that need more durability than steel. 

In the world of watches, titanium is not a new material, but its utilisation in high-end pieces can be considered somewhat recent. This article will discuss the origin of titanium watches and what Seiko offers in that department.

A Brief History of Titanium Watches

Nowadays, titanium watches are worn all across the world. However, before the 1970s, this metal alloy was exclusively used for manufacturing aeroplanes and rocketships for NASA. 

Back in the late 60s, NASA began their Apollo missions. During this time, they sent both crewed and uncrewed rockets to the moon and around the Earth’s orbit. While producing these rocket ships, they realised that stainless steel was not sturdy enough to do the job. They needed something more durable. Eventually, they came across titanium.

Titanium was primarily used because of its high heat resistance and strength. At present, it is often used for various objects, including surgeon tools, jewellery, bicycles, and watches.

Around the time NASA began using titanium for their rocket ships, a Japanese watch brand called Citizen also noticed the wonders of the unique metal. As such, they became innovators and used the metal to create the world’s first titanium watch—the Citizen X-8 Titanium Chronometer.

It is still unclear why the fact that the watch was made of titanium didn’t take centre stage during its promotion and debut. Instead, Citizen’s marketing was focused on the movement that powered the watch. This is understandable since the watch featured one of the world’s first highly accurate and battery-powered movements. However, to watch collectors today, its titanium property is what makes the X-8 Chronometer a must-have. After all, it is difficult to find a watch nowadays that is made of 99.6 per cent titanium.

The Grand Seiko Heritage Seasons SBGA413

Seiko is renowned around the world for its incredible watches. As one of the leading manufacturers in the industry, they have also produced high-quality titanium watches over the years. 

One of the best not only within the company but in the entire industry is the SBGA413. It has a dial inspired by a sakura blossom and is encased in a high-intensity titanium case. This watch is an ideal accessory for various occasions, such as an exclusive cocktail party or a casual stroll.

Titanium SKX Cases

Seiko’s titanium cases are an ideal fit for a variety of watches. Some of the reasons why it is a total standout include the following:

• Anti-Magnetic – Magnetism often affects watch movement. As a result, the time it shows may not always be 100 per cent accurate. Fortunately, titanium watches and cases are anti-magnetic, which means your watch will always reflect precise time.

• Hypoallergenic – If you have any metal allergies, you can have confidence that you will never get a rash when you wear Seiko’s titanium case.

• Scratch-Resistant – Even the most careful person will inevitably leave a scratch on their watch at some point. However, that isn’t the case with Seiko titanium watches. You can always have peace of mind that your watch is safe and protected all the time.

• Rust and Corrosion Resistant – Unlike other metals, including stainless steel, titanium does not corrode or rust. Even if you regularly submerge your watch in water, it will never encounter any of these problems.

• Lightweight – Compared to stainless steel, titanium is relatively lighter. In fact, some people report that titanium feels weightless, unlike its other steel counterparts.

Conclusion

Titanium watches are excellent not only for collecting but for wearing too. They are relatively stronger and lighter than their counterparts. Fortunately, those who want to modify their existing Seiko watches can easily find Seiko parts from trusted sellers.

Seiko Mods is known for manufacturing and designing custom parts for Seiko watches. As the experts on the brand, we can provide anything that you need for your mod projects. If you want the best Seiko parts in the UK, shop with us today!