Grand Seiko have tackled the Sakura-Kakushi concept a couple of times in recent years with the 44GS and 62GS titanium. In both those examples the primary colour on display across the dial is pink, which makes sense because Sakura-Kakushi is the phenomenon of early cherry blossom in snow. For their latest cherry blossom model, the Grand Seiko Sakura-Kakushi 18k Rose Gold 62GS, they’ve instead opted for a light silver tone to complement the new golden case.
Starting with that case, it measures 38mm in rose gold following the classic style of the 62GS. That means relatively blunt lugs that lead into flat, polished surfaces that flow along the length of the watch. The 62GS is also Grand Seiko’s bezel-less design, meaning the sapphire crystal rises directly from the surface of the case rather than sitting below the lip of a bezel. It gives the model a very distinct appearance, standing out from GS’s other collections.
Beneath the crystal is the silver-tone textured dial. It’s actually quite a deceptive colour because the metallic surface reflects the rosy tint of the gold case, hour markers and hands, making it seem pinker than it actually is, especially at a distance. The use of the silver is designed to represent the snow portion of the Sakura-Kakushi inspiration, with the gentle imprint of the cherry blossom texture showing through from beneath the powder. Plus, not all cherry blossom is pink, with plenty examples being white instead.
Completing the display are sharply bevelled hands in a dauphine style that matches the angular baton hour markers and date window. The movement powering the hands and date is the 9S85 hi-beat automatic with 55-hour power reserve. As a hi-beat movement it operates at a frequency of 36,000 bph, which is the pulse rate of the balance wheel, increasing overall accuracy.
It’s presented on a brown crocodile leather strap, which in combination with the golden case makes this one of the priciest 62GS model in the current range at £28,500, available exclusively at James Porter in the UK. Not terribly surprising given the industry wide price rises we’ve seen for gold watches in the past few years. The precious metal is becoming more precious by the day it feels. Though personally if I were to invest in a gold dress watch, the Grand Seiko Sakura-Kakushi 18k Rose Gold 62GS would probably be up there due to its intricate texture and distinctive case.
Price and Specs:
More details at Grand Seiko and James Porter.
