Using a highly secretive Japanese porcelain, Credor start their 2026 off right with a masterfully crafted limited edition Goldfeather model!
Every family has a golden child. In the case of the Seiko Group, one might be inclined to think it is Grand Seiko. How could you not? They regularly dominate the front pages of watch news, and pundits often cite them as one of Japanese watchmaking’s greatest bulwarks against the Swiss horological machine. However, Grand Seiko has a younger brother, one that is more finely crafted and more keenly perfected. This year, they are finally stepping out of the shadows.
If you’re not already familiar, I am of course referring to Credor. Founded in 1974 as an extension of the Seiko Group, Credor’s purpose is to showcase the conglomerate’s unique expression of horological artistry. Emphasising thinness, elegance and craftsmanship rooted in Japanese aesthetics, the brand has largely remained focused on the Japanese domestic market.
While that has been changing gradually, with more models beginning to go global, a new chapter for the brand has been brewing. This year, Credor will join Grand Seiko at Watches and Wonders 2026, planning to steal the show from as many brands as humanly possible. To do that, however, they need to show the world what lies ahead. The new Credor Goldfeather is the manifestation of everything Credor stands for, and a taste of what’s to come.
Standing at a demure 37.1mm wide, 43.2mm long and 8.3mm thick, the stainless steel Credor Goldfeather GCBY991 uses the collection’s established aesthetic to showcase the brand’s capabilities within the watch industry. The slim, highly wearable case profile has been a hallmark of the Goldfeather line since the 1960s, and the collection’s silhouette serves as the perfect frame for the masterpiece within.
That, of course, is the delicate porcelain dial of the new model. It features an extraordinary Nabeshima ware porcelain dial produced by Hataman Touen (畑萬陶苑), a prestigious kiln located in Imari, Saga Prefecture, Kyushu. Nabeshima ware (Nabeshima-yaki, 鍋島焼) has a deep and storied history in Japan, having been crafted exclusively for shoguns and feudal lords since the Edo period, from the 17th to the 19th century. Long considered a state treasure due to its closely guarded techniques, the results are now being gracefully shared by Hataman Touen through Credor.
The result is a brilliantly glossy porcelain dial, transitioning from white at the centre to a rich blue fumé at the edges. Adding further depth is a subtle feather motif adorning the glazed porcelain. As if creating the dial were not challenging enough, the feathered finish alternates between blue shadows and ghostly transparent silhouettes, hypnotising anyone who looks in its direction.
None of the fine craftsmanship atop the dial, however, comes at the expense of horological fundamentals. While not as overtly artistic as the front, the manual-wind Calibre 6890 that powers the watch is still a gorgeous sight, should you somehow tire of all that porcelain. More importantly, it is a proven and reliable movement that has powered Credor’s two-hand line since 2009.
With a power reserve of 37 hours and a 3Hz (21,600VpH) beat rate, it is not designed to be a technical showpiece, but that feels entirely appropriate here. This is not a watch you are likely to wear every day. Without a seconds hand, it keeps the focus firmly on the dial, as it should, while remaining perfectly composed on its own terms.
My Thoughts
When it comes to pieces like this, no matter who makes them, I understand that it can feel strange to hear about them at all. With just 60 pieces available worldwide and an estimated price of AU$18,000–$19,000, it is hardly relatable to the average watch lover like you and me.
Despite that, I still feel compelled to write about this watch. Not just because I love it; I seldom write about watches I dislike, and when I do, I’m sure you can tell. What compels me most is what watches like this represent in the grander scheme of things.
It’s not some Marvel Cinematic Universe-style interconnectivity, but the Credor Goldfeather GCBY991 is certainly a statement of intent from the brand. With an outlook focused on artistry rather than spectacle, and heritage over prestige, Credor’s latest release speaks volumes about what they plan to bring to Watches and Wonders this year. And I, for one, am excited to see whatever it is these madmen cook up for their debut.
Reference: GCBY991
Specifications
- Dimensions: 37.1mm case diameter x 43.2mm lug-to-lug x 8.3mm thickness
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Dial: White/blue fumé Nabeshima-yaki (鍋島焼,) porcelain with feather motif
- Movement: Manual wind Cal. 6890
- Power Reserve: 37h
- Beat Rate: 3Hz (21,600VpH)
- Water Resistance: 30m (3bar)
- Strap: Blue crocodile strap with steel butterfly clasp