Grand Seiko Introduces Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon SLGT003 at Watches and Wonders

Grand Seiko presents its 2022 Timepiece Collection at this year’s Watches and Wonders. Their Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon SLGT003 one of the main highlights and the most complicated mechanical Grand Seiko ever made.

It brings in a decade of skill, hard work, and dedication of multiple designers, engineers, and craftspeople to bring the “T0 Constant-force Tourbillon” concept to life through the Caliber 9ST1. It sets a new standard of accuracy with each movement tested for a full 48 hours in each of six positions and at three temperatures, assessed over 34 days. It has a 72-hour power reserve. 

The timepiece combines a tourbillon and a constant-force mechanism for the first time in horological history. Named after the Japanese word for a heartbeat, Kodo has a carefully designed sound incorporated with its open-work design and sapphire case back. Its inner tourbillon rotates smoothly as the balance steadily vibrates at eight beats per second followed by the outer constant-force carriage at exact one-second intervals. It creates a regular visual rhythm that is soothing for both the eyes and ears, sounding like a satisfying and reassuring heartbeat. 

The Kodo’s case integrates Platinum 950 with Grand Seiko’s Brilliant Hard Titanium. Some parts of the materials are Zaratsu polished, while others have a hairline finish. It is presented in a calf strap, which is specially treated in the traditional ways of creating Samurai armor. The strap’s surface has a delicate sheen thanks to the Urushi lacquer painted by hand in a multi-coating process.

Other highlights include 10 bar water resistance, a manual winding driving system, and a 4800 A/m magnetic resistance. 

Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon SLGT003 is limited to 20 pieces and will be available in the market starting October 2022. It is expected to retail at $350,000.