Grand Seiko SBGW252 Watch Review

Grand Seiko SBGW252 Watch Review

Grand Seiko SBGW252 Watch Review

From 1960 (the entire year Grand Seiko was introduced) until early 2017

Grand Seiko SBGW252 Watch Review

Grand Seiko would be a sub-division of Seiko Watches, a kind of high finish sub-brand inside the collection. As of this moment, Grand Seiko won't be looked at any longer as Seiko but because a brandname by itself. A pleasant method to make certain to not confuse entry-level watches for diving using these superbly crafted bits of fine horology. Because let’s be obvious, Grand Seiko watches take presctiption a componen with the best Swiss luxury manufactures. The storyline of GS began in 1960, having a first watch created using precision, reliability, fine execution and stylish design in your mind - you can observe it here. At Baselworld 2017, the company presented an accumulation of 3 watches (platinum, gold and steel versions) inspired with this first model, a, elegant, superbly detailed and precise watch.

The model we glance at today may be the “intermediate” version (when it comes to cost), produced in 18k gold - as the original 1960 version is at gold-plated steel. However, when it comes to spirit and style, this watch is really faithful towards the model that inspired it. Shape, style, details… The lineage is much more than simple to place, yet Seiko added a wonderfully dosed hint of modernity, mainly when it comes to dimensions. The 2017 Grand Seiko reference SBGW252 includes a 38mm diameter (instead of 36mm for that 1960 version), which may be regarded as very restrained proportions with today’s standards in your mind. Coupled with a comparatively thin profile - 10.7mm thickness - the SBGW252 wears just like a dress watch should.

The realisation from the situation should silence any doubters

With superbly performed polished surfaces. Angles are sharp, line is perfectly straight and it is surfaces are flawless… In a nutshell, within the vein of Grand Seiko watches. The general style of this entertainment from the first Grand Seiko watch is slightly vintage-inspired, though not outdated. It’s a vintage, timeless design that is built to last. Nothing too fancy or misplaced around the entire situation. One regret for many would be the plain caseback, so there isn’t any look at the movement. However, this solid back is pertinent using the “reedition” idea of this watch.

Small details could be spotted throughout, such as the “medallion” around the back, engraved using the historic emblem of the trademark. It shows a pleasant hammered texture, which may be seen around the buckle too. The Grand Seiko SBGW252 is delivered on a high quality crocodile leather strap, the slightly glossy surface didn’t fully convince me - but that’s a only a strap, also it can be altered inside a couple of minutes. Nothing that may draw attention away from all the truly amazing, yet discreet information on this watch.

Grand Seiko SBGW252 Watch Review

The best thing about this Grand Seiko SBGW252 clearly is its dial. Not too the situation isn’t nice, but it's classic. The dial, however, is simply superb (yes, I personally use the term “superb”). Regardless of whether you consider the hands, in the indexes or even the emblem, things are perfectly performed. About this 18k gold version, the “Grand Seiko” emblem (note the lack of the “Seiko” emblem) is elevated and matches the case’s material. A closer inspection reveals an exact embossing. Also, the indexes are faceted and polished (their shape like the 1960 model) and, again, are perfect. Similar to the 1960 model, the “Diashock” inscription is seen at 6, plus the figures of jewels within the movement (although here, you will find 24 of these and never 25 such as the 1960 edition).

What strikes most may be the hands-set

Of course with Grand Seiko, which reference SBGW252 isn't any exception towards the rule. Their sharp design goes back towards the first Grand Seiko and has turned into a signature shape over time. Entirely polished about this version (some GS watches possess a brushed surface), they've razor-sharp edges as well as an immaculate surface. These hands alone will always be in my experience the primary reason to obtain a GS watch… The truth from the manufacturing process is just stunning. Begin to see the detailed photo below:

Within the situation from the Grand Seiko SBGW252 is really a hands-wound movement, something quite unusual for GS. However, this can be a in the past relevant feature, because the first Grand Seiko watch also featured a handbook calibre (Grand Seiko only began to make use of automatic movements in 1966). This entertainment is operated by the calibre 9S64 (as pointed out, not visible on with the caseback). This movement beats in a 4Hz frequency and it is antimagnetic to 4,800 A/m (amperes per meter). It features a comfortable 72h (3-day) power reserve and it is decoration is incorporated in the vein of the majority of the GS watches, meaning neat and nicely performed. About this 18k gold version, the movement is adjusted in 6 positions, and controlled within -3 and  5 seconds each day (meaning inside the COSC standards, of course this watch isn't chronometer rated). The platinum edition is controlled between -1 and  5 seconds each day.