Exploring the Credor GCBD997: A Unique Collaboration with Akira Yamaguchi

In 2025, the esteemed Japanese watchmaker Credor, a subsidiary of the Seiko Watch Corporation, unveiled the limited-edition Credor GCBD997, a timepiece that marries the worlds of haute horlogerie and contemporary art. This remarkable watch, created in collaboration with renowned Japanese artist Akira Yamaguchi, showcases a unique dial design inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern mechanical artistry.

The Credor GCBD997, which retails for JPY 3,300,000 (approximately EUR 19,700), is notable not only for its intricate craftsmanship but also for its exclusivity. Limited to just 15 pieces, the watch is available solely in Japan, a decision that underscores Credor's strategy to maintain an air of rarity and exclusiveness while gradually expanding its global presence.

According to Brice Goulard, a watch journalist with Monochrome Watches, “While Credor has recently begun to reach out to international markets, this limited edition remains a Japan-exclusive, reflecting both the brand's heritage and its commitment to luxury.” Goulard emphasizes the significance of such artistic collaborations in elevating the brand's profile on the global stage.

Akira Yamaguchi, born in 1969 in Tokyo, is known for his distinctive style that blends traditional Japanese painting techniques with contemporary themes. He graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1996 with a Master’s degree in Oil Painting and has received numerous accolades, including the 12th Kobayashi Hideo Award for his book "Hen-na Nihon Bijutsushi" in 2013. His work often depicts aerial views of urban landscapes and dynamic battlefield scenes, reflecting a unique perspective on time and motion, which resonates with the function of a watch.

The design of the GCBD997 features a semi-openworked dial that illustrates the balance wheel, symbolizing the essence of movement and life. The dial's design incorporates a transparent sapphire layer and complex mechanical motifs, creating a dimensional interplay of light and shadow. This innovative approach aligns with the traditional Japanese concept of 'suki', which denotes a deep appreciation for elegance and refinement. The indexes on the dial, arranged in a rhombus pattern, are created using a total of 60 different types, enhancing the visual depth of the piece.

Inside, the Credor GCBD997 houses the Credor calibre 6899, a hand-winding movement derived from the Seiko 68 family, known for its ultra-thin architecture. At merely 1.98mm thick, this movement operates at a frequency of 3Hz and offers a power reserve of 37 hours. The watch is encased in a polished stainless steel body, measuring 38mm in diameter and 8.4mm in thickness, and is water-resistant up to 30 meters.

The collaboration between Credor and Yamaguchi is part of a broader trend in luxury watchmaking, where brands seek to differentiate themselves through artistic partnerships. This strategy not only enhances the brand's identity but also appeals to collectors who value the fusion of art and horology.

In conclusion, the Credor GCBD997 represents a significant step for the brand as it navigates the complexities of global luxury markets while preserving its cultural roots. As Credor continues to innovate and expand, the hope remains that more of its artistic creations will reach international audiences, allowing a wider appreciation of its unique craftsmanship. The GCBD997 serves not only as a functional timepiece but as a wearable piece of art, encapsulating the harmony of tradition and modernity in contemporary watchmaking.