Let’s not repeat ourselves about what has been previously said about the 44GS and its importance within Grand Seiko’s design, then and now, as the first to incarnate the so-called “Grand Seiko Style”.
Both manufactures, the Shizukuishi Watch Studio and Shinshu Watch Studio, have each presented their – very versatile – interpretations of this landmark, starting with the Hi-Beat GMT SBGJ255 presented last December.
This first celebrative edition was followed by the twin references SLGA013 and SLGH009, which both married the 44GS to the latest generation of calibers : Hi-Beat 36000 80 Hours 9SA5 and Spring Drive 5 Days 9RA2. They were also the first ones to introduce the use of Ever-Brilliant Steel.
In April, a mid-sized 36,5mm version was unveiled, adorning a subtly patterned dial which shades of pink were a reminder of the natural phenomenon known as Sakura-Kakushi.
The surrounding nature inspired the next two editions : quartz driven SBGP017 and Spring Drive SBGY009. The latter’s slimness is made possible thanks to the use of manual winding Spring Drive 9R31 caliber which, together with the deep blue sunray patterned dial and the matching crocodile leather band, offer this Heritage watch the elegance it deserves.
Fall 2022 sees the release of 3 new references, each joining the Heritage Collection 44GS celebrations, only this time as regular non-limited models.
Unveiled in August and available from September 1st, the twin references SBGW291 and SBGW293 are promising additions to the 44GS line-up, with their mid-sized 36,5mm case, first time featured on SBGW289.
They share a common heart, the reliable manual winding mechanical 9S64 caliber. One of Shizukuishi’s flagship, this relatively compact movement delivers a 72 hours power reserve, at a frequency of 28,800 bph. Quick reminder : to ensure the durability of this manual winding caliber, its mainspring can be wound endlessly without risk of damage.
Cold forged in stainless steel, the case holds comfortable dimensions (36,5mm wide, 42,7mm lug-to-lug and 11,6mm thickness). The Grammar of design is here well represented, with wide and flat Zaratsu polished surfaces contrasted by hairline brushed ones, in the recognizable shape of the iconic 1967 model. Topped with a box-shaped sapphire crystal, both reference nurture a modern yet vintage inspired aesthetic.
Of these two references, SBGW291 bears the lighter dial. The silverish color is reminiscent of the one once adorning the original 44GS, while the subtle sunray might recall another milestone of Grand Seiko : the 1967 62GS.
Above the dial, the hands feel very close to the original set as well, and the multi-facetted markers are no exception to this resemblance.
While this first reference carries a timeless elegance and versatility, its twin SBGW293 is marked by a bit of vintage look, standing out thanks to its warm brown dial.
Grand Seiko SBGW293
Grand Seiko SBGW291
They both come fitted on crocodile leather bands, matching their respective dials colors, and completed by brushed stainless steel three-fold deployant clasps.
Unveiled on September 7th, SLGH013 is the first non-limited reference to bring together the 44GS design and the latest generation of Hi-Beat calibers in a single timepiece.
Immediately eye catching is the striking patterned dial which shades alternate between light blue and grey. Inspiration is to be found in Shizukuishi’s surrounding nature, and specifically in the early springs melting snows over Mt. Iwate, the mountain that gives its name to the Prefecture where our Manufacture has been established several decades ago.
Both case and bracelet are here crafted from Ever-Brilliant Steel, which peculiar white hue expands the shine of the dial on the casing itself.
Powering SLGH013 is the latest generation of Grand Seiko high frequency movements : Hi-Beat 36000 80 Hours 9SA5. It therefore benefits from its enhanced power reserve, made possible thanks to the use of twin barrels and the efficiency improvements of its unique Dual-Impulse escapement. Accuracy and stability where not forgotten either in the development of this movement, which can rely on a free-sprung balance and overcoil.
Finally, thanks to the slimmed down profile of caliber 9SA5 (15% slimmer than first generation 9S Hi-Beat caliber 9S85), the overall thickness of this reference stands below 12mm despite the automatic winding, for a 40mm diameter.
SBGW291 and SBGW293 are showcased in stores since September 1St, and SLGH013 will be available from October 1st, from selected authorized Grand Seiko stores.
Grand Seiko SBGW291 & SBGW293
Recommended Retail Price : 5,200 €
Case : Stainless Steel
Band : Crocodile leather
Dimensions : 36,5mm diameter x 11,6mm thickness
Mechanical manual winding 9S64
Availability : September 2022 from Grand Seiko Boutiques, Salons and Mastershops
Grand Seiko SLGH013
Recommended Retail Price : 9,300 €
Case and bracelet : Ever-Brilliant Steel
Dimensions : 40mm diameter x 11,7mm thickness
Hi-Beat 36000 80 Hours 9SA5
Availability : October 2022 exclusively from Grand Seiko Boutiques and Grand Seiko Salons
