It’s been 60 years since Grand Seiko set out on their self-imposed mission to create the perfect watch and in that time most collectors will agree they’ve managed it more than once. Needless to say the Grande Maison of Japanese watchmaking has been celebrating their birthday hard, with a host of limited editions, re-issues and exceptional pieces – beginning with SBGH281, available now at Watches of Switzerland, Canary Wharf.
This new piece is a wonderful throwback to the first, signature Grand Seiko watch from 1967, namely the 44GS. It was the watch that laid down in metal what the elite manufacture was all about, from the restrained, timeless style to the exceptional finishing on par with what the finest Japanese artisans could achieve.
Grand Seiko has come a long way since, introducing a multitude of new models and movements, but the 44GS has been in their blood all the while, as this new watch shows. The SBGH281 takes a lot of its visual cues from the original, including the 40mm stainless steel case, but with a few flashes of modernity.
Visually, that means the GS logo in bright gold against a midnight blue dial. Combined with the bright red second hand, the combination is meant to evoke a sunrise. Whatever the case, it’s a stunning colourway and suits the sophisticated character of the watch to a tee.
Of course, the movement has come a long way too. The SBGH281 contains Grand Seiko’s proprietary Hi-Beat Caliber 9S85, which oscillates at a staggering 36,000 vibrations an hour, far higher than most movements. This in turn increases the reliability and accuracy over time of the movement, meaning that the 9S85 runs at +5 to -3 seconds per day.
This isn’t the flashiest watch Grand Seiko are releasing this year, but it’s arguably the most ‘Grand Seiko,’ a modern take on the watch that made the brand. With only 1,500 available worldwide, it won’t be long before they’re in short supply – so get yours now at Watches of Switzerland, Canary Wharf.
Price & Specs:
Model Name: Grand Seiko SBGH281 60th Anniversary Limited Edition
Ref: SBGH281
Case/Dial: 40mm diameter × 13.3mm thickness, stainless steel
Water resistance: 100m (10 ATM)
Movement: Calibre 9S85, manual winding
Frequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 55h
Strap: 3-link steel bracelet
Price: £5,350, limited edition of 1,500 pieces
Find out more and buy your SBGH281 Limited Edition at Watches of Switzerland, Canary Wharf.
