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Grand Seiko's "Spring Drive" is a unique movement that combines the advantages of mechanical and quartz movements. To commemorate the 20th anniversary of the birth of this revolutionary Spring Drive movement, Cal.9R , two limited edition models have been announced!

*Source: https://www.grand-seiko.com/jp-ja/news/2024/pr/20240827

"Elegance Collection "Cal. 9R" 20th Anniversary Limited Edition"
"Ref.SBGY035"

*Source: https://www.grand-seiko.com/jp-ja/news/2024/pr/20240827
 

"Elegance Collection "Cal. 9R" 20th Anniversary Limited Edition"
"Ref. SBGA499 "

The dial features the brand's unique embossed pattern and a vibrant red color, both of which feature the Hotaka mountain range illuminated by the morning sun. In this article, we will take a closer look at these two new models, perfect for autumn. Please read on to the end.

    overview

    *Source: https://www.grand-seiko.com/jp-ja/news/2024/pr/20240827

    basic information
    Model number: Ref.SBGY035
    Case material: Stainless steel
    Case diameter: 38.5mm
    Case thickness: 10.2mm
    Movement: Hand-wound Spring Drive movement Cal.9R31
    Power reserve: Approximately 72 hours
    Waterproof performance: Daily life waterproof
    Strap: Crocodile
    Price including tax: 1,166,000 yen
    Limited number: 700 worldwide (300 in Japan)
    Release date and location: Saturday, November 9th (Grand Seiko Boutiques, Grand Seiko Salons and Grand Seiko Master Shops)
    *Source: https://www.grand-seiko.com/jp-ja/news/2024/pr/20240827

    basic information
    Model number: Ref.SBGA499
    Case material: Stainless steel
    Case diameter: 40.2mm
    Case thickness: 12.8mm
    Movement: Automatic winding Spring Drive movement Cal.9R65
    Power reserve: Approximately 72 hours
    Waterproof performance: Waterproof for everyday use (10 ATM)
    Strap: Stainless steel
    Price including tax: 792,000 yen
    Limited number: 1,300 worldwide (600 in Japan)
    Release date and location: Saturday, September 7th (Grand Seiko Boutiques, Grand Seiko Salons, Grand Seiko Master Shops, Grand Seiko Shops)

    "Ref.SBGY035" Features

    ① A dial with impressive gradation and stamped patterns

    *Source: https://www.grand-seiko.com/jp-ja/news/2024/pr/20240827

    Grand Seiko has previously released many models based on the Japanese seasons and nature, and this time the inspiration was from the Hotaka mountain range in Shiojiri, Nagano Prefecture, where the Shinshu Toki no Takumi Kobo, the manufacturer of Grand Seiko Spring Drive models, is located.

    The hand-wound model "Ref. SBGY035" uses a gradient to express the gradual illumination of the dawn light. The rough rocky surface of the Hotaka mountain range is depicted in an organic stamped pattern. This dial pattern is the same as the popular models "Flower Raft" and "Vernal Equinox", and this model uses a beautiful red. The GS logo and second hand are made of rose gold, and the leather strap is also made of reddish brown crocodile, creating a design that fully expresses the autumnal atmosphere.

    ② Equipped with a thin movement

    *Source: https://www.tudorwatch.com/ja/watches/black-bay-chrono/m79360b-0002

    This model is equipped with a dual spring barrel mechanism that uses two mainsprings in one barrel. This allows for a long power reserve of approximately 72 hours, while keeping the case thickness to just 10.2mm , making it as thin as a dress watch can be. It also has outstanding accuracy, achieving an average monthly difference of ±15 seconds (equivalent to a daily difference of ±1 second), demonstrating Grand Seiko's high level of technical expertise.

    "Ref.SBGA499" Features

    ①A dial depicting the Hotaka mountain range in autumn illuminated by the morning sun

    *Source: https://www.tudorwatch.com/ja/watches/black-bay-chrono/m79360b-0002

    The "Ref. SBGA499 " is characterized by a brighter red color than the "Ref. SBGY035 ", the power reserve indicator at 7-8 o'clock is salmon pink, and the GS logo at 12 o'clock is pink gold. The monochromatic design also makes the diamond-cut indexes and hands, which are the brand's strengths, stand out.

    ②Embodying a classical style

    *Source: https://www.tudorwatch.com/ja/watches/black-bay-chrono/m79360b-0002

    The "Ref. SBGA499 " is equipped with an automatic movement and is limited in number, which suggests that it is a model aimed at a wider range of people. However, it has a finish that firmly inherits the design, incorporating classical elements without compromising the brand's basic style, such as the unique box-shaped sapphire glass and lugs with Zaratsu polishing, which is Grand Seiko's strength.

    summary

    What did you think?

    The two new models celebrating the 20th anniversary of Grand Seiko's Spring Drive movement "Cal.9R" both feature beautiful dials that incorporate Japanese nature. Not only are the brand's strengths of Zaratsu polishing and diamond-cut three-dimensional hour and minute hands attractive, but the smooth, flowing sweep hand movement is also appealing, so if you're interested, why not take a look?

    Once again, I hope that by reading this column, even one more person will become interested in luxury watches!

    See you later!

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