New brand: Praesto Aviator

At this year's Basel watch fair, Seiko announced the global release of more models under a new line called Ananta. Described as "an exclusive collection of luxury timepieces with Spring Drive andhigh-grade mechanical movements, targeted at those who truly understandand appreciate fine watch***." Ananta includes both high-grade mechanical as well as SpringDrive watches, giving us Seiko fans ample material for appreciation. Look for more posts here as we learn more.Read on for more details. For example, see in the picture how they managed the stand: the case is simply machined so that it rests at a good reading angle. No flip-out needed! The face is very legible day or night, with a bright red hand for the alarm setting and even a second hand if you need it.I've done a fair bit of traveling, and I can testify that simplicity is good when you're tired and jet lagged. While it would be nice if, for example, the bezel rotated, or the alarm had a snooze button, the utter simplicity of this design makes it almost impossible to miss getting up at the right time. The back continues the theme. The time setting dial is recessed slightly, and the alarm dial is raised and textured, meaning even by touch alone they can be differentiated. A *** slide switch for the alarm, and a battery cover for the 357 complete the picture. The included leather case is coherent as well. A flap with a snap holds the alarm inside, and it's sized minimally for low-bulk packing.The alarm is nice and loud, starting out with one beep per second andincreasing to twice that if not silenced. Loud enough for tiredtravellers, for sure. Similarly, the very bright glow of the tubes is wonderful at night, effortlessly readable at a glance and a perfect use of the technology.I have a couple of minor nits, though: the 357 battery, while lasting a full year, is harder to find abroad than the AAA.