The Legacy of the Seiko Bell: A Symbol of Athletic Passion
The Final Lap, a Timeless Tradition
As the sun set on the last day of the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25, an extraordinary moment unfolded. Seiko Group Corporation, the official timer of this prestigious event, presented a unique gift - a specially crafted final lap bell - to the Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Foundation. This bell, a symbol of the championships' legacy, is more than just a timer; it's an embodiment of the passion and emotion that defines elite athletics.
A Bell with a Rich History
Traditionally, the Seiko final lap bell has been used to signal the athletes' final lap in middle and long-distance events, from 800m and beyond. For the 2025 World Championships, this iconic bell was reimagined, fusing Japanese craftsmanship with refined aesthetic sensibilities. The result? A masterpiece that captures the essence of the championships.
The Tokyo Handover
The bell, cast in bronze - a perfect blend of 80% copper and 20% tin - was crafted by Oigo Works, a renowned Japanese workshop with a legacy of exquisite metal crafts. The Edo-braided cord, in the official Edo purple, interwoven with gold and silver threads, is a masterpiece designed by the talented Ryuta Fukuda, a kumihimo cord maker based in Tokyo. Together, these elements create a powerful symbol, reflecting the passion and emotion that define the World Championships.
Seiko's Longstanding Partnership
Seiko has been a proud partner of World Athletics since 1985, serving as the official timer for over 190 events. The WCH Tokyo 25 marked Seiko's 19th consecutive appointment, a testament to their commitment and expertise. The presentation of the bell by Hiromi Kanagawa, Executive Vice President of Seiko Group Corporation, to World Athletics President Sebastian Coe and Mitsugu Ogata, President of the Tokyo 2025 Foundation, was a moment of great significance. With this gesture, Seiko hopes to leave a lasting impression, ensuring their clear tone resonates with the Japanese people and inspires a love for athletics that extends far beyond the stadium walls.
And this is the part most people miss: the story behind the bell is a testament to the power of tradition, craftsmanship, and passion. It's a reminder that athletics is more than just a sport; it's an art form that transcends borders and unites people. So, what do you think? Is the Seiko bell a fitting symbol of athletic legacy? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
