Seiko continues its 145th-anniversary celebrations with a special version of the King Seiko Vanac. Since the Vanac’s reintroduction in 2025, the series has grown quickly. At this point, you can choose from nine steel and titanium models that sport a stylish ’70s look. With the new Vanac HKF004, Seiko has created a version that immediately stands out. The crisp blue-and-white colorway celebrating the brand’s 145th anniversary is an interesting departure from the regular lineup. It’s exactly what a limited edition should bring to a series. Does it work for the Vanac? I had a chance to find out.
It’s been a little over a year since the Vanac name returned to the King Seiko lineup. I have a huge soft spot for the original Vanac watches from the 1970s. I wrote about the vintage Vanac models in our Buying Guide series and was immediately intrigued by them. With their angular cases, colorful dials, and faceted crystals, those watches are truly special. My favorite is the King Seiko Vanac 5626-7140, which still looks as remarkable as it did when it debuted. Understandably, the current Vanac series is not as exotic as the original watches from the 1970s. However, they do celebrate the typical ’70s aesthetic that makes them stand out in the King Seiko collection.
The details of the King Seiko HKF004 145th-anniversary limited edition
If the Vanac already stands out in the King Seiko collection, this new HKF004 limited edition distinguishes itself even more. The special blue-and-white color combination that Seiko chose for its commemorative 145th-anniversary series looks crisp and distinct from other models.
It proves that a simple color change can pack an immediate punch. The canvas is similar to the first series of stainless steel models from last year. The watch has a 41mm stainless steel case with a 45mm lug-to-lug and a 14.3mm thickness, including the proudly protruding box-type sapphire crystal.
Paired with the case is an integrated bracelet that enhances the watch’s overall aesthetic. From experience, I can also say that it is a comfortable, high-quality bracelet. For this limited edition, the contrast is turned up to eleven with a silver-white dial featuring a horizontal stripe pattern.
For this new version, the dial is combined with a vivid blue ring that holds the hour markers and the date window at 3 o’clock. The hour markers have a white Lumibrite filling to ensure you can read the time in darker conditions. Additionally, the crisp white lume contrasts nicely with the blue ring during the day.
The details and finishing of the new Vanac
Intricate finishing perfectly accentuates the angular design of the current Vanac. With its mix of brushed and mirror-polished parts, the remarkable case shape visually pops on the wrist. On top of that, the detailed finishing of the individual bracelet links adds to the watch’s tremendous visual impact. Another nice detail is that the 12 o’clock marker and the counterweight of the seconds hand each have a V shape, referring to the Vanac name.
When I first saw the counterweight of the seconds hand last year, I thought it was a bit too on the nose. But after wearing both the stainless steel and titanium models introduced a few months ago, I can say it didn’t stand out negatively at all. The hands for the Vancac HKF004 l are a nice vibrant blue. While this differs from the darker blue of the ring on the dial, these parts work together rather nicely.
The high-end Seiko 8L45
Hiding behind the closed case back with the blue shield logo is Seiko’s in-house caliber 8L45. This 35-jewel automatic movement runs at 28,800 vph and provides a 72-hour power reserve. As some of you will know, the 8L45 is based on the Grand Seiko 9S65.
Seiko officially rates its accuracy at +10/-5 seconds per day, and it’s a robust caliber that also powers several Seiko Marinemaster models. Thanks to the case back’s sapphire crystal, you will be able to see the caliber in action and the refined striped finish on the bridges and the rotor.
Wearing the new King Seiko Vanac HKF004
Once on the wrist, the Vanac HKF004 feels right at home. As soon as I closed the butterfly clasp, I was reminded how well the modern Vanac sits on my wrist. On top of that, the design and the profile immediately stand out. From the angular case design to the box-shaped sapphire crystal to the characteristic bracelet, there is plenty to enjoy.
Additionally, the watch’s build quality is great. As you would expect, it is a step up from the regular Seiko collection. There is a certain heft to the Vanac that I love, and the bracelet is both flexible, thanks to its small links, and super sturdy, thanks to excellent engineering and production.
Final thoughts on the new King Seiko Vanac HKF004 145th-anniversary LE
All in all, it was great to be reminded of how impressive the King Seiko Vanac is. While I was aware of the great quality and characteristic design, wearing one is the best proof of that. The new dial is also a nice break from the others in the lineup. While the special Vanac Boutique Edition SLA091 comes closest with a silver dial and an ice-blue ring, this new HKF004 feels distinct. The choice of colors feels fresh and more modern than most of the Vanac variations currently in the collection.
While the HKF003, part of the trio of titanium models Lex reviewed, is still my favorite, this is a nice new version that departs from what we have already seen. This new King Seiko Vanac HKF004 will be produced in a limited run of 800 pieces, each with a price of €3,400. The watch will be available starting July 2026 at Seiko boutiques and select retail partners worldwide.
Jorg Weppelink
2026-05-19 05:00:00