David Rosas, Grand Seiko's exclusive distributor in Portugal, welcomed one of the most notable names in contemporary Japanese watchmaking to Porto: Satoshi Hiraga, Head of Watchmaking at Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi. Internationally renowned, Hiraga leads the team of Takumi craftsmen responsible for the manual production of all the brand's automatic watches, a task that combines precision, tradition and an exceptional level of technical mastery.
Since joining Grand Seiko in 1989, Satoshi Hiraga has accumulated distinctions that reflect his unique talent. Among them is his victory in the Japan National Skills Competition for Watchmaking in 1995. In 2015, he received the ‘Contemporary Master Craftsman’ certification from the Japanese government, and in 2020, the Medal with Yellow Ribbon, which recognises professionals whose dedication and expertise contribute in an exemplary manner to their craft. At the Shizukuishi Watch Studio, located at the base of Mount Iwate, Hiraga specialised in the manual assembly of the renowned 9S series, a process that requires absolute concentration and technical mastery.
It was this universe of excellence that marked the meeting promoted by David Rosas on 18 November at the Casa do Cinema Manoel de Oliveira, at the Serralves Foundation. In an intimate setting, a group of guests had the opportunity to learn about the principles that define Grand Seiko: the pursuit of absolute precision, aesthetics inspired by Japanese nature, and the savoir-faire of the Takumi masters.
During the masterclass, Hiraga shared techniques, curiosities and details about the creation of Grand Seiko automatic movements, revealing the discipline, rigour and deep respect for craftsmanship that characterise the brand. The session allowed guests to understand the complexity behind each calibre and the philosophy that has guided Grand Seiko since its foundation: to elevate watchmaking to a level of authenticity and perfection.
The experience continued with an exclusive dinner that brought together guests, the David Rosas team and representatives from Grand Seiko. Frédéric Bondoux, President of Grand Seiko Europe, and Pedro Rosas, CEO of David Rosas, were in attendance.
David Rosas would like to thank all participants for joining in this celebration of Japanese haute horlogerie. It was a privilege to provide an experience that brings watch enthusiasts closer to the masters who elevate this art to an extraordinary level.
