2010s Credor Signo Skeleton

Credor has been around since 1974 with a focus on precious metal cases and fine art techniques. Yes, it's a subsidiary of Seiko—there's even "Seiko" on the crystal in this example—but the level of handiwork and extravagance is closer to independent watchmaking than what's seen in the more mainstream Japanese brands. Many are familiar with the Eichi models, but few realize the brand's breadth goes far beyond hand-painted porcelain dials.

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The GBBD985 is from Credor's appropriately named Art Piece Collection and is an evolution of the skeletonized watch line that's been in production since just before the turn of the century. This watch features a gorgeous dial that's hand engraved with incredible precision by a master Japanese craftsman using traditional techniques. It's quite a feat considering the hand-wound caliber 6899 and its parts are very thin, causing the engraver to have to work within incredibly tight tolerances. Even without polishing on the mainplate bridge, the watch glimmers with such beauty and depth at nearly every angle.

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I've long appreciated Japanese watchmaking, especially watches from Grand Seiko that punch above their weight in terms of finishing. However, I've struggled to find a mechanical reference that unites a small diameter with a thin case and an interesting dial. I've previously owned the Grand Seiko SBGW033 and that was close, but Credor's GBBD985 with its skeletonized dial, 34.7mm diameter, and 5.7mm thickness is exactly what I've been looking for.