Category: Other

  • Valve Taunts Half-Life 3 Leakers as Steam Dataminers Wait

    Valve Taunts Half-Life 3 Leakers as Steam Dataminers Wait

    Key Takeaway

    – Dataminers have found evidence of “HLX” (likely Half-Life 3) in game source code, tied to a revamped physics engine with dynamic destruction and realistic driving mechanics.
    – Valve developers are aware of the sleuthing, as shown by a DOTA 2 variable named “m_bHackWhyAreYouGuysReadingOurVariableNames,” mocking dataminers for overinterpreting code.
    – Strong evidence suggests Half-Life 3 exists, but no leaks indicate it is ready for an official announcement.
    – Fans feel impatient after 20 years since Episode 3 was announced, though it has only been 6 years since *Half-Life: Alyx*.
    – Reports linking Half-Life 3 to being a Steam Machine launch title have grown doubtful due to delays and lack of similar leaks.

    Valve’s Silence on Half-Life 3 Continues

    Valve has yet to make a Half-Life 3 announcement. Still, dataminers are confident that a new entry in the shooter series is in the works. Leakers probe the source code of games like Counter-Strike 2 and DOTA 2 that frequently reference HLX. Now, developers are letting these detectives know they are aware of there sleuthing.

    Developers Mock Data Miners

    Gabe Follower is a consistent source of clues related to the Half-Life 2 follow-up. On social media, he shared a variable discovered in a DOTA 2 update, called “m_bHackWhyAreYouGuysReadingOurVariableNames.” The name is an obvious dig at the dataminers who overexaggerate the significance of new code.

    Strong Evidence of New Game

    Not all leaks may prove consequential, but there is strong evidence that the long-awaited Valve game exists. The likely HLX alias of Half-Life 3 has been tied to a revamped physics engine with dynamic destruction and realistic driving mechanics. AI NPCs and enemies would also react more convincingly to the obliteration of objects around them.

    Fans Express Frustration

    To many fans, it seems like an eternity since Gordon Freeman embarked on a fresh adventure. Replying to the sly variable label, Edmond said, “Because it’s been 20 years since announcing Half Life Episode 3 and you have been radio silent ever since.” Gabe Newell’s company has actually hinted at EP3’s demise, which was to continue the HL2 narrative.

    Recent VR Release

    In reality, its only been 6 years since Alyx arrived as a showcase for the Index VR headset. Regardless, even as AAA development cycles grow longer, gamers are impatient for a Half-Life 3 release date. Although there were reports it might serve as a Steam Machine launch title, doubts have grown about that scenario.

    Steam Machine Delays

    The Linux-based mini PC originally had a shipping window early in 2026, before the memory shortage derailed Valve’s plans. After a delay, SteamOS updates and shipping manifests point to an imminent arrival. Unfortunatly, there aren’t similar leaks suggesting that the shooter is ready for an official announcement.

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  • X4KPro Drone: Budget DJI Alternative With 4K Limits

    Key Takeaway

    – Priced at ~£70 (entry-level), but lacks 4K quality despite the name; actual resolution may be closer to 720p.
    – Weighs under 250g, offering beginner-friendly features like auto-hover, obstacle detection, and altitude hold.
    – Total flight time up to 30 minutes with both batteries; live video range limited to 50–100 meters.
    – Best suited as a toy-grade drone for complete beginners, not a competitor to premium brands like DJI.

    AMXFlight X4KPro Drone Review

    The X4KPro is a new drone available in markets such as Germany and the United Kingdom. In the UK, it can be ordered for around £70, excluding shipping costs, clearly placing it in the entry-level segment. Compared to drones we have already tested – as well as significantly more expensive quadcopters from brands like DJI – both major and minor limitations should be expected.

    Camera Resolution and Specifications

    While the manufacturer is not necessarily making false claims, it is not particularly transparent about the camera resolution. The product name suggests native 4K recording, but according to the specifications, photos and videos can be saved at 3,840 × 2,160 pixels only via interpolation. One retailer refers to image quality at around the level of 720p, although this cannot be independently verified.

    Features and Flight Time

    The drone weighs 149 grams and therefore stays below the 250-gram threshold. It includes several convenience features aimed at beginners, such as automatic hovering, obstacle detection, and altitude hold via a built-in barometer. Takeoff and landing can be performed automatically, and three selectable speed levels are available to make handling easier.

    Accessories Included

    The advertised flight time is up to 30 minutes, although this requires using both included batteries. The package includes a remote control without a built-in display, and operation via a smartphone app is also supported. Live video transmission to a smartphone is possible, but the range is, depending on the listing, limited to around 50 to 100 meters. Overall, the AMXFlight X4KPro is best seen as a toy-grade drone or an entry-level option for complete beginners.


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  • Waveshare NFC e-Paper: No Battery, Wireless, Color

    Key Takeaway

    – NFC powers and transmits data to e-paper displays, which only need energy to change content.
    – The 2.9-inch Waveshare display costs $28, supports red/yellow/black/white pixels, and refreshes in ~16 seconds.
    – Potential uses include name tags and retail, but manual smartphone-based updates limit practicality for large-scale retail.
    – E-paper retains images for months without continuous power, though it is not permanent.
    – Centralized wireless updates are more practical for retail than per-device smartphone connections.

    NFC is a well-established method for data transmission, typically used to transfer only small amounts of data. It operates via electromagnetic waves—and therefore energy—which a new compact display from Waveshare takes full advantage of. This approach works because e-paper displays only require power when changing their content, as long as no backlight is used. In simple terms, once the digital ink is arranged, the image remains stable for a long time without a continuous power supply. “Stable” does not mean permanent, but rather that the content can remain unchanged for months.

    Specifications and Pricing Details

    The $28 Waveshare 2.9-inch NFC-powered e-paper display (34751) uses a compatible smartphone to receive both the energy required to update the image and the image data itself. This process relies on NFC in combination with an app. The display supports red, yellow, black, and white pixels, with a resolution of 296 × 128 pixels. The device measures 87.50 × 47.70 millimetres and is 12.70 millimetres thick.

    Potential Use Cases and Limitations

    Potential use cases include name tags, and Waveshare also promotes the display for retail applications. However, its practicality in larger retail environments is questionable. Refreshing the display takes around 16 seconds (excluding data transfer time), and a direct connection to a smartphone is required. While e-paper price tags are becoming more common in retail, they are typically updated wirelessly and centrally, avoiding the significant labour costs associated with manual updates.


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  • Ugreen 65W Fast Charger: Slim, Affordable Power

    Ugreen 65W Fast Charger: Slim, Affordable Power

    Key Takeaway

    – Three ports: two USB-C (65W max, 30W) and one USB-A (22.5W)
    – Total peak output of 60W when all ports in use; C1 delivers 45W
    – Supports major fast charging protocols (PD, PPS, QC, FCP, SCP)
    – Slim design at 14.5mm thick; GaN technology ensures over 90% efficiency
    – Priced at CNY 129 (~$19) in China; global launch expected soon

    New Charger From Ugreen

    Ugreen has launched a affordable fast charger in China, the Nexode Air 65W Slim. Its basically a slightly larger version of the Air 45W Slim that we recently reviewed, and instead of featuring a one-port configuration, the newer model sports three ports. Among the three, two are USB Type-C ports, and one is a USB-A port. One of the two USB-C ports can offer up to 65W of fast charging, while the other maxs out at 30W.

    Port Configuration and Power

    That is, the former is meant for charging laptops and phones, and the latter is meant for phones. As for the USB-A, it maxes out at 22.5W, and when all three are in use, the USB-A and USB-C2 will offer a combined power output of 15W, while the C1 will deliver 45W. So, the total peak power output when all the ports are in use will be 60W. The company further highlights that there’s support for major fast charging protocols, including PD, PPS, QC, FCP, and SCP.

    Protocols and Efficiency

    That means it will work with phones, laptops, and accessories. Ugreen also claims that the GaN technology this adapter is based on ensures above 90% efficiency. In our test, we found that the Nexode Air 45W Slim has a good overall efficiency, but it tends to get hot after extended high-power charging. Ugreen says that there’s a self-developed temperature control system, which is said to take care of the overheating problem during charging.

    Size and Pricing Details

    Getting back to the size, Ugreen mentions that the charger is 1.45cm (14.5mm) thick, which makes it just 0.2 cm (0.2mm) thicker than the Nexode Air 45W Slim we reviewed. So, the newer model should also easily fit in pockets. Price-wise, Ugreen has launched the Nexode Air 65W Slim in China at CNY 129, around $19. The company is expected to launch this fast charger in the global market soon. For international buyers looking for something similar, the Nexode Pro 65W is a good option.


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  • Sony PS5 DualSense Controller Patents PSN Login Security

    Sony PS5 DualSense Controller Patents PSN Login Security

    Key Takeaway

    – Sony’s patent proposes using a DualSense controller (via Bluetooth, NFC, or sensors) as a hardware-based authentication method to prevent unauthorized PSN account access.
    – This approach would require a hacker to physically possess the controller, adding a layer of security beyond passkeys or 2SV.
    – A major downside: reliance on the same controller means a lost or broken accessory could lock users out of their accounts.
    – The system does not address vulnerabilities in PSN’s account recovery process, where hackers exploit customer support to obtain credentials.
    – The patent may never be implemented, but it highlights ongoing demands for Sony to strengthen account recovery security.

    Controller Login Innovation

    Sony offers several options to protect PSN accounts, including 2-step verification (2SV) and passkeys. Yet concerns remain amid reports of compromized logins and passwords. A new patent demonstrates how a DualSense PS5 controller or its successor could further bolster security.

    Patent Discovery and Method

    RespawnFirst discovered the Sony patent titled “Controller-Driven Video Game Console Login.” Published on May 21st, the documents show a PS5 or another console initiating a sign-in request. A notification is sent to the controller, prompting it to scan for a nearby device, like a smartphone.

    The DualSense, or a future revision, would communicate with the device via Bluetooth, NFC, proximity sensors, or various light and audio signals. After establishing contact, the controller may rumble or light up. In one example, the smartphone confirms receipt of the signal before transfering credentials to the controller. Finally, the accessory sends the information to a console to complete the sequence.

    Hardware-Bases Alternative

    Customers can already use a mobile device to potentially avoid having their PSN accounts hacked. The PlayStation app is able to access stored passkeys, but the Sony patent proposes a hardware-based alternative. Bad actors would need to physically possess the controller to purchase PS5 games or sell trophy-laden accounts.

    Reliance and Flaws

    The downside for console owners is that they would be reliant on the same accessory. Without an additional way to sign in, a missing or malfunctioning DualSense will interrupt playtime. Also, as RespawnFirst notes, it doesn’t address one of the weakest points in PlayStation Network security.

    Content creator Colin Moriarty is one of many gamers who have lost access to their PSN accounts. By using only an ID or order number, nefarious individuals can obtain sensitive credentials. Often, hackers convince customer support to provide usernames and passwords. Critics accuse the gaming giant of failing to properly train or vet the personnel responsible for protecting this data.

    Patent Futur or Not

    Like other Sony patents, the latest concept may never become a reality. In the meantime, calls for the company to strengthen the vulnerable recovery process will continue.

     


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  • DIY Robot Gets “High” in Real Time

    DIY Robot Gets “High” in Real Time

    Key Takeaway

    – Smoke directly alters an LLM’s sampling parameters (temperature, top_p, top_k) in real time, causing progressively incoherent and chaotic text output.
    – No scripted behavior is used; the effect is purely mechanical from feeding gas sensor data into the model’s sampling logic.
    – Physical feedback (drooping eyes, drawling voice, smoke display) mirrors the LLM’s deterioration, creating a unified character response.
    – The $7.99 MQ-2 sensor cannot distinguish between smoke types (cannabis, incense, cigarette), limiting accuracy.
    – Every “high” reply is uniquely generated per run since the live sampler creates new token sequences each time.

    Unexpected LLM Integration in a Suitcase Robot

    A hobbyist on Reddit’s LocalLLaMA community has built what might be the most unexpected LLM integration we’ve seeb all year: a suitcase robot called Sparky that gets progressively more… incoherent when exposed to smoke. This doesn’t happen through any scripted behavior but by feeding real sensor data directly into the model’s sampling parameters.

    Hardware and Sensor Mechanism

    The project has been posted by Reddit user u/CreativelyBankrupt. It essentially uses an MQ-2 gas sensor (curr. $7.99 on Amazon) mounted inside the robot’s case. Every 500 milliseconds, the sensor reads ambient air against an adaptive clean-air baseline and converts smoke presence into a phase value between 0 and 10. That phase value then rewires how the LLM generates text in real time. For instance, temperature climbs from 1.0 to around 1.6, top_p rises from 0.95 to 0.99, and top_k jumps from 64 to 120 as the smoke level increases.

    Behavioral Changes Under Smoke Exposure

    When that happens, Sparky’s word choices reduce, and the robot starts going towards lower-probability tokens, and become noisier — because the live sampler is doing exactly what high sampling parameters do to any language model. Every “high” reply is freshly generated, so no two responses are the same. A per-phase persona nudge makes sure the behavior shows through (without the robot actually announcing its state).

    Physical and Visual Feedback System

    There’s physical feedback as well. Sparky exhibits drooping eyes, a slight drawl in voice output, and a display that goes into a full smoke-and-plasma effect at phase 10. It holds there for seven minutes before decaying.

    Limitations and Community Reception

    The creator is candid about the hardware’s limits — the MQ-2 is a VOC sensor, meaning incense or a cigarette would trip the same response as cannabis, and it cannot distinguish between smoke sources. The video has over 1,100 upvotes on Reddit at the time of writing. Check it out below: u/CreativelyBankrupt on LocalLLaMA

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  • Olight ArkPro Stars & Stripes Edition: 250th Anniversary Flashlight

    Olight ArkPro Stars & Stripes Edition: 250th Anniversary Flashlight

    Key Takeaway

    – Patriotic limited edition design to commemorate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding
    – Multi-tool light with 1,500-lumen flood, 800-lumen spot, UV light, and green laser pointer
    – Rugged, compact build (115g) with USB-C & magnetic charging compatibility
    – Intuitive controls with a three-way selector switch, Moonlight mode, and Strobe
    – MSRP of $99.99, with 15–20% off on select models during Prime Day 2026

    Patriotic Lighting Innovation

    The Olight ArkPro Stars & Stripes flashlight is a special edition of the rugged ArkPro rechargeable flashlight, featuring a patriotic design with the iconic stars and stripes of the US flag to commemorate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. This version celebrates a historical milestone with a distinctive look that sets it apart from standard models, blending functionality with national pride for collectors and everyday users alike.

    Pricing and Specification Details

    The ArkPro Stars & Stripes Edition includes a 1,500-lumen floodlight, 800-lumen spotlight, 1,200 mW UV light, and a 5 mW green laser pointer. A round button for the thumb surrounded by a three-way selector switch and a small side button are used to select modes and control the flashlight, including the 1-lumen Moonlight mode and Strobe mode. This setup offers versatile lighting options for different tasks, from low-light navigation to high-visibility signaling.

    Build and Durability Factors

    Machined from a single block of 6061 aluminum alloy, the rugged ArkPro can be submerged up to 3.3 ft. (1 m) for 30 minutes. With its non-removable 2,000 mAh lithium battery and metal pocket clip, the flashlight weighs 4.05 oz. (115 g), making it suitable for everyday carry. The aluminum construction ensures resistance against drops and wear, while the compact design fits comfortably in a pocket or bag without adding bulk.

    Charging and Accessory Compatibility

    The ArkPro supports USB‑C charging and is compatible with Olight’s MCC magnetic charging pad, including accessories like the Olight Ostation 2 Pro. It also ships with a magnetic USB-A charging pad for added convenience. This dual-charging capability allows users to recharge via standard cables or magnetic docks, enhancing flexibility for travel or desk use.

    Hands-On Review Insights

    In our hands-on review, the ArkPro’s selector switch “feels good,” and the floodlight produced a “very uniform” beam with “pleasant, smooth falloff toward the edges.” These features contribute to a positive user experience, with intuitive controls and consistent light output that reduces eye strain during prolonged use.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    The Olight ArkPro Stars & Stripes Edition flashlight has an MSRP of $99.99 and is available on Amazon. During Amazon Prime Day 2026 (June 23-26), select Olight ArkPro Lite, ArkPro, and ArkPro Ultra models will be discounted by 15% to 20% off their list prices. This promotional period offers savings for those intersted in upgrading their flashlight collection or purchasing as a gift.


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  • TerraMow X AWD Robot Mower Launches on Kickstarter at 25% Off

    TerraMow X AWD Robot Mower Launches on Kickstarter at 25% Off

    Key Takeaway

    – TerraMow X AWD Kickstarter campaign is now live, with prices starting at $2,699 (25% off the $3,699 MSRP).
    – Delivery is scheduled to begin in September 2026, near the end of the mowing season in Northern/Central Europe.
    – Designed for large areas up to 6,000 m² (11,000 m² with extra batteries), mowing up to 1,200 m² per hour.
    – Features six cameras, AI Vision System, nRTK, fully suspended all-wheel drive, and handles inclines up to 90% (42°).
    – Uses three blade discs with a 50.2 cm cutting width and includes a side connection for attachments like a trimmer.

    Following TerraMow’s recent announcement of its brand-new flagship robotic lawn mower, the X AWD, the anticipated Kickstarter campaign has now launched. As of a few moments ago, the TerraMow AWD X is available for purchase on the crowdfunding platform—of course, with the usual risks in mind.

    Pricing and Bundle Choices

    However, the X AWD isn’t exactly a bargain on Kickstarter either. Prices start at $2,699 or €2,342, which is still 25% less than the eventual MSRP of $3,699. Various bundles are also available as options, such as those with additional batteries. Delivery is scheduled to begin in September 2026, which coincides with the end of the mowing season in Northern and Central Europe.

    Performance and Area Coverage

    The TerraMow X AWD is an XXL robotic lawnmower designed for large areas of up to 6,000 square meters (or 11,000 square meters with additional batteries). According to the manufacturer, it mows up to 1,200 square meters per hour, partly thanks to a special trick. The X AWD avoids the time-consuming and not-always lawn-friendly turning maneuvers at the end of a pass, instead essentially reversing slightly offset. The six cameras of the AI Vision System are distributed between the front and rear for this purpose.

    • Maximum area: 6,000 m² (11,000 m² with extra battery)
    • Mowing speed: up to 1,200 m² per hour
    • System: AI Vision with six cameras

    Impressive Technical Specifications

    The TerraMow X AWD’s spec sheet is impressive in other respects as well. In addition to TerraVision 2.0, the 40 kg robotic lawnmower uses nRTK and, with its fully suspended all-wheel drive, can handle inclines of up to 90% or 42° and uneven terrain of up to 7 cm. Mowing is handled by three blade discs with a generous cutting width of 50.2 cm, and the cutting height is adjustable between 25 and 100 mm. There is also a side connection point where, for example, a side trimmer can be attached.

    Weight and Terrain Handling

    Among these high-end features, the unit weights a hefty 40 kg and boasts a fully suspended all-wheel drive system. This design enables it to manage slopes up to 90% (or 42 degrees) and navigate across uneven ground of up to 7 centimeters. It is a very robust machine that can handle tough landscaping scenarios, including wet grass and bumpy terrain, with relative ease. The cutting deck uses three seperate blade discs that work together to deliver a clean cut across a 50.2 cm path.

    Kickstarter


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  • AI Art to Body Scans: Midjourney’s Underwater Scanner

    AI Art to Body Scans: Midjourney’s Underwater Scanner

    Key Takeaway

    – Midjourney is pivoting from AI image generation to medical imaging with a new full-body ultrasonic scanner.
    – The scanner submerges users in water and uses 500,000 tiny ultrasonic elements to create a 3D body map in under 60 seconds.
    – It delivers MRI-like detail with sub-millimeter accuracy at nearly 100 times the speed of a traditional MRI.
    – Midjourney is collaborating with Butterfly Network and plans to first introduce the scanner in spas before seeking FDA approval.
    – The company aims to have 50,000 scanners worldwide by 2031, with initial rollout in San Francisco.

    Midjourney’s New Scanner

    Midjourney is starting a completely different business model, a full body ultrasonic scanner. They are known for turning text prompts into AI generated pictures, but now they revealed there next project: the Midjourney Scanner. This medical machine can scan your entire body in under 60 seconds, named Midjourney Medical, it has nothing to do with there previous ventures at all.

    How the Scanning Process Works

    You step onto a platform and get submerged in water at roughly two inches per second. As you descend down your body passes through a ring containing half a million tiny elements (each the size of a sand grain) that fire ultrasonic waves at you. These waves comes from every angle and records what bounces back, Midjourney compares this experience to being surrounded by half a million tiny dolphins who use echolocation all at the same time.

    Results and Speed Comparisons

    As a result you get a very detailed 3D map of your body, with a accuracy of a fraction of a millimeter, similar to an MRI scan. However its produced at nearly a hundred times the speed, and Midjourney aims to scan the whole body in less than 60 seconds. This is much less then the 60 to 90 minutes that a full body MRI usually takes, plus the scanner will use custom silicon to enable much better image quality then before.

    Partnership and Future Rollout Plans

    Midjourney is building this project in collaboration with Butterfly Network, which is an ultrasound device maker. Over the next year the technology will get refined and when ready it will be introduced in high end spas. The first one is planned to open in San Francisco, from there the plan is to get FDA approval. They aim to expand to other cities in 2028 and hope to reach 50,000 scanners all around the world by 2031.

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  • Grand Seiko SBGA523: Limited Peacock Spring Drive Watch

    Grand Seiko SBGA523: Limited Peacock Spring Drive Watch

    Key Takeaway

    – Limited to 200 pieces, exclusive to Daimaru department stores in Japan (¥825,000)
    – Translucent mint-green dial with a peacock feather pattern symbolizing growth
    – 40mm stainless steel case using Grand Seiko’s classic 44GS design with Zaratsu polishing
    – Powered by the 9R Spring Drive movement, accurate to ±15 seconds per month with 72-hour power reserve
    – Japan-only release starting in early October 2026

    Grand Seiko’s new SBGA523 is a limited-edition Spring Drive watch created exclusively for Japanese department store chain Daimaru. Set to release in early October 2026, the watch is limited to just 200 pieces distributed across five Daimaru locations — Shinsaibashi, Kyoto, Kobe, Tokyo, and Sapporo — and carries a retail price of ¥825,000 including tax (approximately $5,700).

    Dial Design and Inspiration

    The dial is what seals the deal in this collaboration. Its translucent mint-green color is overlaid with a diagonal feather pattern drawn from Daimaru’s corporate symbol, the peacock. The sweeping, upward-rising lines are a reference to growth and aspiration, and the see-through quality of the teal finish gives the dial a depth that shifts with light and viewing angle. This here creates an almost three-dimensional effect that really catches the eye from any angle you look at it from.

    Case Construction and Dimensions

    The case is based on Grand Seiko’s classic 44GS design lineage. It features the brand’s signature Zaratsu-polished flat surfaces that create sharp, mirror-like transitions between facets. It measures 46.2 x 40.0 mm with a thickness of 12.5 mm and is built in stainless steel. The caseback carries an individual “1 of 200” engraving alongside a display back for movement viewing, allowing collectors to observe the mechanics working behind the sapphire crystal window.

    Movement and Performance

    Inside sits the 9R Spring Drive caliber — Grand Seiko’s proprietary movement that uses a mainspring for power while relying on an integrated circuit and quartz oscillator to regulate timekeeping. The result is a rated accuracy of ±15 seconds per month, or roughly ±1 second per day, which is exceptional for a mechanically-driven watch. Power reserve stands at 72 hours, or about three days on a full wind. This movement is actually quite unique in the watch world because it combines traditional mechanical energy with electronic regulation for superior precision.

    Availability and Market Position

    The SBGA523 is a Japan-only release with no broader availability indicated yet. Because of the limited production numbers and the exclusive distribution through only five Daimaru locations, this timepiece is likely to attract strong interest from collectors both domestically and internationally who appreciate rare Grand Seiko collaborations.


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