Seiko Group Corporation, led by Chairman and CEO Shinji Hattori, along with Seiko Watch Corporation, under President and CEO Akio Naito, proudly announces that the SEIKO QUARTZ CHARIO Cal. 5931 has been honored as an “Important Historical Material of Science and Technology” (nicknamed ‘Heritage of Future Technology’) for fiscal 2024 by the National Museum of Nature and Science.
A Revolutionary Mechanism
The SHARIO Cal. 5931 is noteworthy for being the first wristwatch to incorporate the groundbreaking “Adaptive Drive Control” mechanism. This innovative technology not only supports the miniaturization of analog quartz watches but also significantly extends battery life. By reducing the power consumption of the step motor—once responsible for 70-80% of total energy use—this system cuts power needs to about half of that of traditional watches.
With multiple types of drive pulses, the Adaptive Drive Control intelligently assesses the watch’s state during each motor rotation, optimizing energy efficiency and setting a new standard in the world of analog quartz watches. This essential technology has since been integrated into various Seiko models, including GPS solar watches, and continues to evolve.
Recognizing Innovation
The “Important Historical Materials on Science and Technology” initiative, established in 2008, aims to identify and preserve achievements that significantly impact science and technology. These materials are crucial for educating future generations and highlighting transformative influences on society, culture, and the economy.
Seiko’s legacy in this prestigious category includes:
- 2018: The world’s first quartz wristwatch, the Seiko Quartz Astron 35SQ
- 2019: Seiko Quartz LC V.F.A. 06LC, the first digital watch with a six-digit display
- 2020: SPX-961 spiral quartz watch, PyramidTalk DA571 voice timekeeper, and HS301 ultra-thin wall clock
- 2021: Seiko Spring Drive 7R68, the first quartz-controlled wristwatch driven by a mainspring
The Cal. 5931 marks the seventh Seiko timepiece to receive this distinguished recognition.
Exhibition at Seiko Museum Ginza
All Seiko products registered as Heritage of Future Technology, along with related materials, are on permanent display at the **Seiko Museum Ginza** in Tokyo. The Seiko Quartz Chario will be exhibited starting in early October, alongside historical pieces like the Seiko Quartz Astron 35SQ.
About the Seiko Museum Ginza:
Founded in 1981, the museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and researching materials related to time and watchmaking. In 2020, it relocated to Ginza, the birthplace of Seiko. Visitors can explore the rich history of Seiko products, global timekeeping innovations, and the visionary spirit of founder Kintaro Hattori. In April 2024, the newly established **Grand Seiko Museum** will further enhance the experience, showcasing the evolution of the Grand Seiko brand.
Location: Seiko Namiki-dori Building, 3-13, Ginza 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Hours of Operation: 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Closed: Mondays, Year-end and New Year holidays
Please check the official website for any changes in hours and to make reservations.