The Grand Seiko Peacock Struts Again, and More Stunning New US Exclusives Announced

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The Grand Seiko Peacock Struts Again, and More Stunning New US Exclusives Announced​

JUNE 9, 2022
WORDS BY ZACH WEISS

It was at the Couture show in Las Vegas last year that Grand Seiko announced their trio of US exclusives inspired by the greens and blues of the Genbi valley, housed in their perfect 37.3mm case. While the brand has had no shortage of releases so far this year, for those who were waiting, or hoping, for another round of US exclusives, you’re in luck. For this year’s Couture, Grand Seiko is bringing out a total of four models – two 9S63 manually-wound pieces from their Elegance collection, and two hi-beat GMTs in 44GS cases from the Heritage line.

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It’s been a minute since we’ve seen Grand Seiko return to their particularly stylish 39mm case / 9S63 combo, so it’s great to see its return with not one, but two exciting dial options. For a refresher, this case features rounded Zaratsu polished surfaces, which takes this already special expertise and pushes its difficulty even further. The 9S63 is then easily identifiable by its seconds sub-dial at nine, and power at three. A bit of an odd layout, it gives these watches an inherently whimsical charm that sets them apart from other Grand Seikos.

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The SBGK015 “Ryūsendō” is nothing short of breathtaking. Drawing from nature, as Grand Seiko is known to do, this vivid aqua dial is inspired by the underground lakes of the Ryūsendō. A limestone cavern located in the Iwate Prefecture, its swirling waters are translated into a complicated geometric pattern that is reminiscent of the “whirlpool” dials from 2018 that replaces the logos/symbols for additional line work.

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While most of the dial furniture is in polished steel, the power reserve hand is rendered in gold, bringing to mind an unexpected sliver of light and indicating its limited production. The SBGK015 comes mounted to a blue crocodile strap and is limited to 250 pieces. It will retail for $7,500.

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The SBGK017 draws from a decidedly different but no less Japanese source: Nanbu tekki ironware. A traditional style of metalwork originating in the Iwate prefecture, its history can be traced back to the Edo period. In addition to the dark gray color being translated to the dial, a grid-like texture called arare or hailstone has been applied. This texture appears to be very similar to the one found on the Paris Vendôme Limited Editions from 2020, which accompanied the launch of a boutique. They were also limited to just 20 pieces total, 10 in a rose gold case, and 10 in platinum, so about as rare as Grand Seikos get.

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The texture here goes a long way to add depth and dynamism to the subtle gray metallic tone of the dial surface. The SBGK017 comes mounted to a steel bracelet, and rather than being limited is a “special” edition that will be continuously available. It will retail for $8,900.

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Moving away from the Elegance collection, we have a duo of Heritage pieces featuring the 9S86 hi-beat GMT caliber, housed in the iconic 44GS-inspired case in steel. First is the SBGJ261 “Peacock.” As many of the Grand Seiko fans out there are likely already aware, there was already a “Peacock” model, the SBGJ227 from 2018, the difference between the two is that the new model is a rich blue that verges on purple, while the previous version was a deep teal, both taken from the exceptional jewel tones of the peacock’s plumage.

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What these models have in common, apart from case and movement, is the texture, which is one of Grand Seiko’s most subtle. An array of concentric circles, they seem to ebb and flow in intensity, creating a shimmering effect of moments of highs and lows that hints at the eyes seen on a flared peacock tail. The SBGJ227 comes on a bracelet and is limited to 500 pieces. It will retail for $6,800.

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Last up (are you overwhelmed yet?) is the soothing SBGJ259. This one didn’t come preloaded with a nickname, but I imagine “Zen Garden” or “Bamboo Grove” are likely candidates. Inspired by the bamboo garden at the Nezu Museum and Garden, which was designed by architect Kengo Huma, the dial of the SBGJ259 is striking, but calming, bright green with a strong yellow undertone. A subtle pattern of vertical lines with organic texturing provides depth and a connection to the inspiration. Bright chartreuse has been used for the GMT hand and text.

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Perhaps more straightforward, but undeniably appealing, for fans of green (like yours truly) there is a strong pull to the contrast of the earthy green surface and subtle texturing with the harsh, faceted lines and surfaces of the 44GS case. The SBGJ259 is also a “special” edition that will be continuously available for $6,800.

All of the above watches will be available in September 2022 at Grand Seiko Boutiques and selected retail partners in the United States.





6. 9. 2022
MODEL STORY

Grand Seiko SBGK015 “Ryūsendō” U.S. Limited Edition and SBGK017 U.S. Special Edition

Two new elegant timepieces inspired by nature and craft.

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Grand Seiko’s Nature of Time ethos is a true north star for the Japanese watchmaker, guiding its design philosophy from the ground up. Be it the snow-capped mountains of Shinshu or the traditional armor-cladding once worn by samurais, Grand Seiko pulls from Japan’s cultural and natural spheres for inspiration. Today at COUTURE, the Japanese luxury watch manufacturer introduces two new models to its Elegance Collection, SBGK015 and the SBGK017, which gives credence to the above philosophy and further demonstrates the brand’s Takumi spirit.

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SBGK015 Ryūsendō

The dial of SBGK015 is inspired by the vivid blue and emerald-green underground lakes of the Ryūsendō (龍泉洞). Located in Iwaizumi in eastern Iwate Prefecture, Ryūsendō Cave is known for its extensive subterranean galleries arching over deep sunless lakes of clear blue water. This effect is captured beautifully by the dial’s vibrant color and dynamic pattern curving from its center.

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SBGK017

The dial of the SBGK017 takes its inspiration from Nanbu tekki ironware, a form of traditional metalwork produced in the city of Morioka in Iwate prefecture. This renowned handcraft dates to Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868), but it continues to this very day, and it is prized by many for its beauty, durability, and uniform heat distribution. Nanbu tekki ironware features a distinctive texture called arare, or hailstone, on its exterior. This texture finds its way onto the dark gray dial of SBGK017.

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Both models utilize Grand Seiko’s Thin Dress Series case design. With the Thin Dress Series, Grand Seiko’s objective was to create thinner, dressier timepieces that could easily slip under a shirt cuff. To that end, the case measures 39mm in diameter, 11.6mm in thickness, and just 44mm in length. The shape features a pronounced curvature with softer, more organic lines than what one would find on more geometric designs like the 44GS. Additionally, the underside of the case is concave, which allows the watch to sit closer to the wrist. The dial and sapphire crystal are also curved to give the watches a classic look, and the minute and power reserve indicator hands are shaped by a craftsperson so that they follow the dials’ dome.

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The case features a mix of high-polish and hairline-finished surfaces. Like all other Grand Seiko watches, it has ample Zaratsu polishing, which creates beautiful distortion-free surfaces throughout, even on curved areas. Because Zaratsu polishing was traditionally done on flat areas, a special technique was developed by Grand Seiko artisans to achieve this notably high level of finish.

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Manual caliber 9S63. (Please note this is an early sample and the case back incorrectly states 001/300.)

Both watches run on caliber 9S63, a manual-wind movement with a power reserve of 72 hours and an accuracy rate of +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static). This movement is based on caliber 9S64, but in order to achieve the unique dial layout with a small seconds register and a power reserve indictor, Grand Seiko’s watchmakers had to completely redesign the train. As a result, caliber 9S63 has nearly 20% more components than 9S64. Additional specifications include 33 jewels, a frequency of 28,800 bph, and a magnetic resistance rating of 4,800 A/m (or 60 Gauss).

SBGK015 is a U.S. Limited Edition of just 250 pieces and will retail for $7,500. The Nanbu tekki-inspired SBGK017 is a U.S. Special Edition model and will be in continuous production in Grand Seiko’s catalog, retailing for $8,900. It will also come with an extra crocodile strap on a deployant clasp. Both watches will be available in September 2022 at Grand Seiko Boutiques and selected retail partners in the United States.





The arare, or hailstone SBGK017 dial reminds me of these dials below.

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Grand Seiko SLGH017 ‘Night Birch’​

Sep 7, 2022

Brent Miller Time
BisKWzZ4ely18YlLDzyt7NRFEhgzJQFAs_PrgQCy6uAkCZZavECCF6G2rWvvCVtm8FFrdJKf=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj


40.2mm case
12mm thick
46.9 lug to lug
22mm lug width
Cal. 9SA5 w/ 80 hours power reserve
100m
113.5 grams on full bracelet

$10,400


Features​

The dial inspired by white birch forests at night.​

This Hi-Beat 36000 watch shares the same Evolution 9 design as the celebrated ‘White Birch’ SLGH005 but is presented with a black dial that captures the atmosphere of the white birch tree forests on the Hiraniwa Plateau at night. These forests cover some 400 hectares and are located near the studio in Shizukuishi where all Grand Seiko mechanical watches are crafted.
Its powerful hands and grooved, prominent markers ensure perfect legibility. Its Zaratsu polished, distortion-free mirror finish and delicate hairline finish alternate to give the case a quiet and harmonious glow. The case has wide lugs and a low center of gravity that ensure that the watch sits easily and securely on the wrist.

This high-beat watch is powered by the revolutionary Caliber 9SA5, which offers a power reserve of 80 hours thanks to the high efficiency of Grand Seiko’s unique Dual Impulse Escapement and the high power generation of the twin barrels.

Specifications​

Exterior
Exterior:High-intensity titanium
Case back:See-through & Screw case back
Glass Coating:Anti-reflective coating on inner surface
Case size:Diameter 40.0mm Lug-to-lug 47.0mm Thickness 11.7mm
Band width:22mm
The perimeter of Band:192mm
Movement
Caliber no.:9SA5 Instructions
Movement Type:Automatic with manual winding
Mean daily rate:+5 to -3 seconds per day
  • Mean daily rate is a mean value of daily rates in a condition where the movement before assembly in a case is measured in six positions in a fixed manner under artificially controlled environment for 12 days.
Functions
Water resistance:10 bar
Other details / Features:
  • Screw-down crown
  • Allergy-safe metal





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Grand Seiko SBGJ259 ‘Bamboo Dial’​

Sep 7, 2022

Brent Miller Time
BisKWzZ4ely18YlLDzyt7NRFEhgzJQFAs_PrgQCy6uAkCZZavECCF6G2rWvvCVtm8FFrdJKf=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj


U.S. Special Edition
40mm case
14.2mm thick
46.2mm lug to lug
19mm lug width
100m water resistance
Cal. 9S86 Hi-beat w/ 55 hours power reserve
158.3 grams on full bracelet

$6,800


 

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300 Pieces! Grand Seiko SBGK015 Ryusendo Caves!​

Sep 7, 2022

Right Time Watches
AMLnZu-IWdMs3o6JnGGhpmlt8HeOS69iD-C5QQanO5xo=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj


Located in Iwaizumi in eastern Iwate Prefecture, Ryūsendō Cave is known for its extensive subterranean galleries arching over deep sunless lakes of clear blue water. This effect is captured by the dial’s vibrant dial color and dazzling pattern.

The stainless steel case of SBGK015 is polished by a special Zaratsu method developed to accentuate the beauty of the case's curved surfaces. The dial and sapphire crystal are also curved to give the watch a classic look. Additionally, the dial features hand-bent minute and power reserve hands, a nod to classic watch design.

Caliber 9S63 is a slimmer mechanical package, and it offers a small seconds register at the nine o’clock position and a power reserve indicator at three. The thinness of the movement allows for a slimmer, dressier design overall, allowing SBGK015 to slide comfortably under a shirt cuff.

SBGK015 is a U.S. Limited Edition of 300 watches.



Features

An elegant timepiece inspired by Ryūsendō

Located in Iwaizumi in eastern Iwate Prefecture, Ryūsendō Cave is known for its extensive subterranean galleries arching over deep sunless lakes of clear blue water. This effect is captured by the dial’s vibrant dial color and dazzling pattern.

The stainless steel case of SBGK015 is polished by a special Zaratsu method developed to accentuate the beauty of the case's curved surfaces. The dial and sapphire crystal are also curved to give the watch a classic look. Additionally, the dial features hand-bent minute and power reserve hands, a nod to classic watch design.

Caliber 9S63 is a slimmer mechanical package, and it offers a small seconds register at the nine o’clock position and a power reserve indicator at three. The thinness of the movement allows for a slimmer, dressier design overall, allowing SBGK015 to slide comfortably under a shirt cuff.

SBGK015 is a U.S. Limited Edition of 300 watches.
User Manual
Case

Case Material : Stainless Steel
Case Diameter : 39mm
Case Thickness : 11.6mm
Case Length : 44mm
Lug Width : 19mm
Crown : Push Crown
Strap/Bracelet : Crocodile strap w. clasp
Crystal : Dual Curve Sapphire
Caseback : Stainless Steel with Sapphire Crystal
Movement

Caliber : 9S63
Type : Mechanical
Power Source : Manual Winding
Jewels : 33
Accuracy : +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static)
Duration : 72 Hours
Functions

Features : Time, Power Reserve Indicator, Small Seconds
Water Resistance : 30m
Magnetic Resistance : 4,800 A/m
 

Grand Seiko SBGJ261 ‘Peacock’​

Sep 17, 2022

Brent Miller Time
BisKWzZ4ely18YlLDzyt7NRFEhgzJQFAs_PrgQCy6uAkCZZavECCF6G2rWvvCVtm8FFrdJKf=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj


Limited Edition of 500
40mm case
14.4mm thick
46.2mm lug to lug
19mm lug width
Cal. 9S86 w/ 55 hours power reserve
100m water resistance
158.4 grams
$6,800

 
well USD strong against yen

any rich wits let me know how the GS JDM shopping goes

i would shop in japan before china now

but i guess this stuff is endless because plenty veterans i knew as a kid would not buy *** or german the killing and maiming and memories too fresh

as an adult it became harder to find an american who would no longer buy *** or kraut cars because of atrocity during WW II

thats cool i see the short version for japanese is like profanity and the program censors it... no offense intended... i studies japans language a couple years and learned to say hi can i have your money... it was just a gesture... ally japanese clients were rich,smart, highly educated and spoke japanese and english intelligently and fluidly... rare to meet a stupid japanese...

they got some "castes " in japan...people with dark skin or hairy they treat like crap and let them handle human waste and do the dirtiest jobs... they also treat like crap koreans who have been living there for generations in japan...they treat them like crap also and they get paid less and take crap jobs

japan is like a ghost country... no young are breeding ...villages full of people so old they can't even find their own diapers to crap in...they got no immigration ... they are using robots to do stuff because there are no people

being in recession for decades don't help nuthin'
 
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Grand Seiko SBGJ259 Green Bamboo GMT​

Oct 25, 2022

A look at the new 2022 Green Bamboo GMT watch from Japanese watchmaker Grand Seiko, using the hi-beat 9S movement and 44GS case.


https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/collections/heritage/h1


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Introduced today at COUTURE, the new U.S. Exclusive SBGJ259 features a vivid green dial with a dramatic striated pattern that, depending on the light, oscillates between different tones of green, evoking the vertical lines and organic coloration of a bamboo garden.

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The indexes and hands, both of which are highly faceted to allow light to play across the dial, make full use of the interaction between light and shadow. The yellow GMT hand creates subtle contrast for added visibility.

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2022 marks the 55th anniversary of the original 44GS, a design that introduced the Grand Seiko Style. It is a foundational timepiece, informing Grand Seiko design for the nearly six decades that followed. SBGJ259 employs the modern interpretation of the 44GS, first introduced in 2013.

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Measuring 40mm in diameter and 14mm in thickness, it is rendered in stainless steel, and it features an angular form with broad lugs and distortion-free surfaces throughout. In profile, one can see the gentle curvature of the mid-case and the taper of the lugs, a critical design detail that allows for a very comfortable fit when worn.

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Found inside the case is the 9S86 Hi-Beat GMT caliber running at 36,000 bph. Operating with an accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static), it also features a 55-hour power reserve—notable for a high frequency movement. The GMT function allows the wearer to track two different time zones, with the hour hand being adjustable independently in one-hour increments in either direction. Caliber 9S86 is hand-assembled by the highly skilled watchmakers of Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi, the home of Grand Seiko mechanical watches.

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SBGJ259 is a Special Edition exclusive to the U.S. market at Grand Seiko Boutiques and Grand Seiko authorized retailers in the U.S. and will retail for $6,800 this September.
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Grand Seiko Heritage Collection
Hi-Beat 36000 GMT SBGJ259
$6,800

Features

Special Edition GMT timepiece inspired by a bamboo garden path​

A verdant bamboo garden path inspires the dynamic "Urban Bamboo" dial of SBGJ259. It features a dramatic striated pattern that oscillates between different tones of green, evoking the vertical lines and organic coloration of the bamboo garden path.
Powering the watch is the Hi-Beat Caliber 9S86, which runs at 36,000 bph, delivers an accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds a day, and offers 55 hours of power reserve. A GMT function allows the user to track an additional time zone, making SBGJ259 an excellent timepiece for frequent travelers.
SBGJ259 is a U.S. Special Edition.
User Manual
Case

Case Material : Stainless Steel
Case Diameter : 40mm
Case Thickness : 14mm
Case Length : 46.2mm
Lug Width : 19mm
Crown : Screw Down
Strap/Bracelet : Stainless Steel w. three-fold clasp
Crystal : Dual Curve Sapphire
Caseback : Stainless Steel with Sapphire Crystal
Movement

Caliber : 9S86
Type : Hi-Beat 36000
Power Source : Automatic
Jewels : 37
Accuracy : +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static)
Duration : 55 Hours
Functions

Features : Time, Date, GMT
Water Resistance : 100m
Magnetic Resistance : 4,800 A/m

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Grand Seiko SBGJ259 “Bamboo” (Exquisite Timepieces)​

Random Rob
yazTIfA4s1A9_S1fUJS57uV7JHk5RZ5AB-1ydXt1f6pLz2xinp8Fv9g3Qkis89imeoCbvx1TshY=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj

Dec 13, 2022


Width. 40mm
Lug to lug. 46.2mm
Thickness. 14.4mm
Lug opening. 19mm
Crown 7mm

Nick Lukas
[email protected]
239-262-4545
239-766-7939

Grand Seiko Hi Beat 36000 GMT SBGJ259​

SPECIAL
Availability: Pre-order
U.S Exclusive

$6,800.00​

https://www.exquisitetimepieces.com/grand-seiko-hi-beat-36000-gmt-sbgj259.html

USA_GS_SBGJ259-watch.jpg



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Features

Special Edition GMT timepiece inspired by a bamboo garden path​

A verdant bamboo garden path inspires the dynamic "Urban Bamboo" dial of SBGJ259. It features a dramatic striated pattern that oscillates between different tones of green, evoking the vertical lines and organic coloration of the bamboo garden path.
Powering the watch is the Hi-Beat Caliber 9S86, which runs at 36,000 bph, delivers an accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds a day, and offers 55 hours of power reserve. A GMT function allows the user to track an additional time zone, making SBGJ259 an excellent timepiece for frequent travelers.
SBGJ259 is a U.S. Special Edition.
User Manual
Case

Case Material : Stainless Steel
Case Diameter : 40mm
Case Thickness : 14mm
Case Length : 46.2mm
Lug Width : 19mm
Crown : Screw Down
Strap/Bracelet : Stainless Steel w. three-fold clasp
Crystal : Dual Curve Sapphire
Caseback : Stainless Steel with Sapphire Crystal
Movement

Caliber : 9S86
Type : Hi-Beat 36000
Power Source : Automatic
Jewels : 37
Accuracy : +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static)
Duration : 55 Hours
Functions

Features : Time, Date, GMT
Water Resistance : 100m
Magnetic Resistance : 4,800 A/m
 
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