One practical reason why people buy watches is to tell time. But as time went by, the time-telling tool we wear on our wrists has evolved, and so are our reasons. Functionality still comes into play but buying motivations now incorporate style, hobby, status, and even investment. And in investing, we have learned to make sure we get the value we pay for. The Japanese luxury, Grand Seiko, ticks all the boxes: functionality, reliability, quality, prestige, and value over time.
Grand Seiko is an elite watch manufacturer that produces high-end watches. Despite not being a Swiss manufacturing company, the brand delivers high-quality, durable timepieces powered by cutting-edge technology.
What is so good about Grand Seiko?
The two things that set Grand Seiko apart from other brands are their movements and finishing. The company manufactures highly complicated hi-beat movements. Only profoundly skilled watchmakers can produce these movements, making Grand Seiko special. They also develop a spring drive movement.
A Grand Seiko spring drive movement is a combination of traditional mechanical movement and a quartz movement. The timepiece is almost entirely mechanical except for its oscillator. The quartz crystal helps in controlling the released energy for the watch to function. This hybrid relationship has produced one of the most accurate movements available today.
The finishing of Grand Seiko watches is one of the reasons why these timepieces receive love from buyers. Every watch and each aspect of it is thoughtfully designed and finished to perfection. The Zaratsu polishing makes every angle of a Grand Seiko timepiece look flawless and astonishing. Zaratsu, developed originally for finishing Japanese swords, leaves an even surface, similar to the black polishing technique sometimes applied by Swiss watchmakers.
In an industry dominated by Swiss watchmakers and brands with stronger reputations, Grand Seiko can compete. The brand is just as good as them when it comes to generating quality luxury watches. That being said, here is a list of Grand Seiko collections you might want to look into:
The Heritage Collection
Probably the most multifaceted collection of the brand, the Grand Seiko Heritage collection is essentially focused on everyday and contemporary dress watches. The line features bolder and more colorful characteristics, with a hint of sportiness in many of them. The Snowflake, the most iconic Grand Seiko watch, is included in this line.
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The Snowflake
The Grand Seiko Spring Drive SBGA011, better known as the Snowflake, is the most famous timepiece among the Heritage collection. It has become a hit and a huge fan favorite ever since it was first released in 2010. Its unique dial and the general fit and finish of the wristwatch are much-lauded by watch critics.
The Snowflake is engineered by the unique caliber of the brand, the Spring Drive. With this caliber, the motive force of a mainspring is combined with the high precision of a quartz watch. Its titanium case and bracelet provide a corrosion and scratch-resistant finish.
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Grand Seiko SBGR299
Grand Seiko SBGR299 features a three-day power reserve with a refined design and a larger case. Its increased case size provides the model a greater sense of presence while still retaining the Grand Seiko design.
This timepiece will continuously function for three days straight because it is equipped with the 9R61 caliber. It boasts an ultra-clean dial with excellent stability from its new slim-form case back.
The Sport Collection
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Grand Seiko SBGH255
Let us start this line with Grand Seiko SBGH255. Specially designed to withstand the pressures of saturation diving without the need for a helium-escape valve, SBGH255 sure is something to take note of. This hardcore timepiece has a water-resistance ability of up to 600 meters.
SBGH255 is equipped with the hi-beat Calibre 9S85. Its every component is built to survive the harshest underwater environment. The channels on the rotating bezel ensure a firm grip on the wearer’s wrist, even with thick diving gloves. It delivers a safe and secure use for diving while still allowed for everyday use.
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Grand Seiko SBGP015
Grand Seiko SBGP015 is a limited-edition watch. This model offers a more fun-loving quality with its powered by the Calibre 9F85 mechanics and bright red accents against a dark blue dial design. Having a ceramic bezel is rare among Grand Seiko watches, but this finish gives the timepiece an overall clean and scratch-resistant look.
The Elegance Collection
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Grand Seiko SBGW257, SBGW258, & SBGW259
On the 60th anniversary of Grand Seiko, it released three dress watches to pay homage to their original and very first Grand Seiko Model in 1960. These timepieces are arguably the best ones in the Elegance collection. Each of the three features 38mm case made from unique materials of gold, platinum, and titanium gives the timepieces a classy chic finish.
Where can you find a Grand Seiko watch?
If you wish to own a Grand Seiko watch, you can check out The Watch Company’s website. It offers a wide range of timepieces that can help you pick the perfect wristwatch. They offer authentic watches so you’ll only get legitimate products with the best value!