Overview
Credor has been around since 1974 with a focus on precious metal cases and fine art techniques. While it's a subsidiary of Seiko, 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.
The GBBD985 here 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.
Japanese brands, especially Grand Seiko, have long been praised for producing watches that punch above their weight in terms of finishing. However, it's rare to find a mechanical reference that unites a small diameter with a thin case and an interesting dial. Credor's GBBD985 does just that with a skeletonized dial, 34.7mm diameter, and 5.7mm thickness, all of which contribute to a delightful wearing experience.
Specifications
Brand:
Credor
Model:
Signo Skeleton Platinum
Reference:
GBBD985
Year:
2010s
Case Number:
2D0002
Case Material:
Platinum
Diameter:
34.7 mm
Lug Width:
18 mm
Thickness:
5.7 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
39.7 mm
Dial:
Skeleton
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Hand-wound
Caliber:
Seiko 6899A
Bracelet/Strap:
Molequin blue saffiano strap with tang buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The platinum case shows only faint wear in the form of a few hairlines and a couple tiny nicks. The overall impression is very clean. The lugs are thick and well-defined at the edges. The caseback is in fantastic condition with only a few very light marks and no notable imperfections. The engravings are light but remain legible.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The skeleton dial and blued hands are in pristine condition with no notable imperfections. Both front and rear sapphire crystals are squeaky clean and scratch-free.
Bracelet/Strap: Both the Molequin saffiano strap and the Bambi alligator strap are in fantastic condition with virtually no signs of wear. The Credor signed platinum buckle has been wrapped in plastic and remains in excellent condition. The hallmark engravings on the inside are sharp and detailed.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown winding and time setting are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
