Introducing: The New Credor Goldfeather Urushi And Tourbillon

December 05, 2013

The first Credor watch I ever saw in real life was an Eichi II. We organized a trip for our readers to Grand Seiko in Japan several years ago, and one of the guests just pulled one out of his pocket (I kid you not). Credor is the cream of the crop, the crown jewel of the (Grand) Seiko family.In 2023, we saw the first modern Credor Goldfather watch, and Mike wrote a brief intro about the name, which dates back to 1960 (here). Earlier this year, we reported on the Credor Goldfeather Imari Nabeshima Limited Edition. Today, Credor is back at it once more with the Goldfather Urushi Lacquer Dial Limited Edition (GBBY967) and the Goldfeather Tourbillon Engraved Limited Edition (GBCF997).Credor Goldfeather Urushi Lacquer Dial Limited Edition (GBBY967)Lets start with the urushi-dial Credor Goldfeather ref. GBBY967. Its a 37.4mm platinum watch with an 8.1mm thickness. This is a very dressy size, and Credor has matched it with a dark blue crocodile strap and a platinum buckle. At Watches and Wonders 2026, the brand will show this watch to the public.An urushi dialThis Credor creation features a dial that transitions from black at the outer edge to a stunning shade of blue toward the center. The gradation results from multiple cycles of lacquering and polishing with whetstones, finished with the skillful touch of a Credor artisan s fingers. The indexes, Credor branding, and Goldfeather wordmark are crafted using taka maki-e (P}, tall sprinkled picture), a traditional lacquering technique. In this process, after applying the base design with urushi (Japanese lacquer), an artisan then enhances it with metallic platinum powder to produce a three-dimensional effect. The result looks amazing, and I cant wait to observe this new Credor Goldfeather Urushi Lacquer Dial watch later this month in Geneva.Caliber 6890Powering this watch is Credors caliber 6890. This manual-wind movement has a mere 1.98mm profile and is visible through the case back s sapphire display. Caliber 6890 ticks at 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a 37-hour power reserve. Credor communicates an average deviation of -15/+25 seconds per day, which, to be honest, sounds like a bit much.The Credor Goldfeather ref. GBBY967 is a limited edition of 25 pieces and will retail for $39,000.Credor Goldfeather Tourbillon Engraved Limited Edition (GBCF997)Then, theres the Goldfeather ref. GBCF997 with a tourbillon movement. It has been exactly 30 years since Credor first used the engraving technique seen on this watch on its ultra-thin caliber 68. Its based on traditional Japanese engraving techniques, and each tool is adjusted to the contours of the artisans hands. Some of the engraved parts measure just 0.25mm thick, so the artisans are incredibly careful not to apply too much force.Fine engravingThe Goldfeather Tourbillon features linear engravings on the dial and movement. The fine hand-engraving results in a smooth, satin-like texture, and afterwards, the engraved parts receive a thin plating to enhance the effect and protect them from corrosion. You will also see the Roman numerals on the dial, ultra-finely engraved and in harmony with the dials radial pattern. The minute track features nanako (~, fish roe) engraving, a technique requiring a chisel with a small, rounded end, resulting in sharp, sparkly dots.Caliber 6850On the Credor caliber 6850, the bold linear engravings radiate outward from the troubillon carriage. Each line requires multiple passes, and the artisan must ensure the blade angle and depth remain constant. All lines must look perfect across the different components.The 3.98mm-thick manual-winding movement offers a 60-hour power reserve. It beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour and has a stated deviation of -10/+15 seconds per day. This accuracy rating also sounds strange for a watch at this level of fine watchmaking. Mike expressed his concerns about the lack of proper regulation for these Credor manual-winding movements in this article. Perhaps some of the clientele will not care, but at this level and price, it should be done properly and not become a topic of discussion. I cant imagine Credor doesnt care about accuracy. After all, the brand uses Spring Drive technology in some of its other watches.Crocodile and platinumThis platinum watch features a 38.6mm case with an 8.6mm profile. Credor pairs it with a crocodile strap on a platinum folding clasp (a combination of Pt950 and Pt900).The Credor Goldfeather Tourbillon Engraved Limited Edition (GBCF997) is limited to 25 pieces worldwide and retails for $195,000.More information is available on the official Credor website.