This and That about Grand Seiko
Since the new fiscal year began, I've been busy with exams and haven't been able to update much.
Every time I start writing about a substantial topic, I end up giving up halfway through,
so today I'm just going to write whatever comes to mind.
It's about Grand Seiko, one of my favorite brands.
I feel that GS has gained global recognition over the past few years.
SEIKO watches have always been loved around the world,
but I think their luxury line, GS, has now reached a level where it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Swiss luxury brands.
The evolution in technical capability is one thing,
but above all, the unique dial patterns and
the beauty of the case finishing are points worth noting.
With the SLGH005, which won the Men's Watch Prize at the 2021 GPHG and the 'best of the best' at the Red Dot 2022,
commonly known as the "White Birch," I think GS's recognition has reached a global level.
As I introduced in my previous article regarding this year's new releases,
starting with the first mechanical chronograph, the "TENTAGRAPH",
a number of characteristically beautiful dials are being released.
I want you to see the actual GS watches and feel them on your wrist to understand their appeal.
More than words can explain, and more than images can show,
there is something that conveys so much more.
That is why I will not dare to ramble on about their appeal here.
And, precisely because I love them, I will write about what I feel from actually owning one.
"I want the bracelet to have more personality."
Beautiful dials, wonderfully finished cases.
Even the movement features a design and finish that pursues aesthetics.
The 9SA5 movement, which is equipped in the White Birch and others, was apparently built together with designers from the design stage.
The beautiful finish, similar to the Glashütte stripes in German watches, is apparently called the 'Shizuku-ishi River finish'.
However...
What about the bracelet, given the overwhelming perfection of the case?
Of course, the quality of the finish remains high.
It's just that (to me) it cannot be called interesting.
Just like the case, a manufacturer's personality is strongly reflected in the bracelet.
In the first place, the bracelet makes up a larger portion of a 'wristwatch's' surface area,
so I think it has a significant impact on the impression it gives.
With so many watches overflowing with personality that you can identify the brand just by looking at the bracelet,
how many people can look at a GS bracelet and say, 'That's a GS'?
Let me give a few examples. How many can you answer?
You might say, 'Luxury sports watches are designed including the bracelet, so it's natural for them to have strong personality!'
That is certainly true, but...
Well then, how about this?
A bit of the crown logo is visible, but
you can tell it's a ROLEX immediately.
The other day, while on the train, I looked at the wrist of a man holding onto a strap,
and his Jubilee bracelet was sparkling brightly.
Being able to recognize it as that without even looking at the case must surely satisfy one's desire for ownership.
So, once again, what about this?
I wonder if what I wanted to convey came across. lol
Of course, it doesn't need to be flashy.
There's no point if you try too hard to be unique and end up ruining the balance.
However, as I wrote in a note some time ago,
I have a concern that "GS is so focused on history and philosophy that it cannot escape the Seiko Style."
I don't think there will be any extreme changes in direction or experimental adventures.
Therefore, the only way to express individuality within the established framework is to change the dial.
(That's a terrible way to put it, though.)
That is why the design of the SBGX343 struck a chord with me.
Did I introduce the SBGX343 in a note?
If not, I'll introduce it in another article.
After writing all this, I should mention that the Elegance Collection does have a 9-link bracelet option.
I love these fine bracelets that also have a vintage feel.
GS is a wonderful watch brand that Japan should be proud of.
With the 9F quartz, you can acquire one starting from 280,000 yen while maintaining its beautiful finish.
Wishing for their continued development, I would like to keep watching them closely in the future.