Grand Seiko celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Caliber 9R series by releasing two new Spring Drive creations in the Elegance Collection. The SBGY035 and SBGA499 are inspired by the Hotaka mountain range in Japan, the birthplace of all Grand Seiko Spring Drive creations.
The first model features a dark red dial with a gradation that resembles the sunrise on the mountain range. The dial’s periphery gradually becomes brighter toward the center, similar to how the landscape of the Hotaka mountain range turns vibrant red during dawn, and the light casts a warm glow on the autumn leaves. The dial is combined with a Spring Drive seconds hand, featuring a silent glide motion.
The SBGY035 is only 10.2mm thick and has a power reserve of 72 hours, offering a remarkable blend of slimness and power. In addition, the timepiece’s manual-winding Spring Drive Caliber 9R31 provides an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month, enhancing its precision. The watch is completed with a red-brown crocodile leather strap.
The second model, the SBGA499, has a bright red dial that is also inspired by the sunrise on the Hotaka mountain range and the autumn leaves bathed in golden morning light. The GS logo is in a rose gold color, and the recessed power-reserve indicator is in copper pink, which adds depth and contrast. The watch is 12.8mm thick and also has a 72 power reserve and ±15 seconds accuracy per month. It is powered by the automatic Caliber 9R65, the first movement of the 9R family. The watch is completed with a stainless steel bracelet.
Only 700 examples of the SBGY035 will be available from November 2024 for $8,500 each, while 1300 examples of the SBGA499 will be available starting September 2024 for $5,800 each. Both versions can be purchased at Grand Seiko Boutiques and select retail partners worldwide. For more details on these two limited-edition timepieces, visit the Grand Seiko website.
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