Since 1960, the Lion has been Grand Seiko’s emblem : from a single timepiece, to collection, then independent Brand, the king of animals remained the symbol of ones of finest Japanese timepieces. Featured on our watches case backs, whether embossed in the metal or laser engraved in the sapphire crystal, it sometimes inspire the design itself.
While jewelry Masterpieces SBGD205 and SBGD207 took their inspiration from Japan majestic landscapes, SBGD209 evokes the beauty of the White Lion, as striking as it’s rare.
The case design differs from the ones of elder Spring Drive 8 Days Masterpieces, and one might spot resemblance with Grand Seiko Lion inspired timepieces : SBGA403, SBGC231 or SBGC238.
This very limited edition indeed shares similar angular flat lugs with these Spring Drive creations, the whole case being forged in Zaratsu polished Platinum 950. The lugs are however here carefully set with 112 sparkling diamonds. These are set so precisely that they seem to have a single, flat surface. The case is completed by a 60 baguette diamonds bezel, applied with the same level of jewelry expertise to flow evenly.
112 diamonds are precisely set on the Platinum 950 case lugs
The bezel comes set with 60 baguette cut diamonds
The bezel comes set with 60 baguette cut diamonds
While the strong angular lugs speak for the power of the lion, the dial brings the beauty of the white lion, which mane’s graceful tresses are reflected in the pattern.
Surrounding the center, one’s eye is attracted by no fewer than 94 diamonds and 26 black spinels, carefully selected and set on white gold rails to create a stunningly intricate effect.
The combination of the muscular case design and the exquisite detail of the gemstones is strikingly unusual. Powerful yet graceful, just like the white lion itself, this new Grand Seiko Masterpiece Collection watch has a beauty all its own.
Beneath the dial, and observable through the widely opened sapphire case back, lives the Spring Drive heart of this animal creation :
Spring Drive 8 Days 9R01
Developed by and exclusively for the Micro Artist Studio from Shinshu, this highly innovative caliber combines the great accuracy of Spring Drive, reaching here ±0,5 second per day (±10 seconds per month), and an extended power reserve of 8 days when fully wound. This unusual energy is provided by three barrels set in series, requiring a specially constructed caliber to ensure maximum strength and resistance.
The back of the caliber, which beauty is offered to the eye, recalls the landscape of the surroundings of Micro Artist Studio.
One might recognize the very renowned shape of Mt. Fuji, beveled within the bridge of the caliber, behind which the Spring Drive gliding wheel appears as a rising sun. Holes and jewels act as the lights of the city, while the circular power reserve indicator reminds of Lake Suwa, nearby the Studio. This nature tableau is achieved by the M.A.S. bellflower logo carved within the bridge.
The watch comes with a white crocodile leather band, bearing a platinum 950 three-fold deployant clasp, and is presented in a special white box.
A limited edition of only 5 pieces, this exclusive timepiece will only be available from selected Grand Seiko Boutiques, starting from May 2022.
Grand Seiko SGBD209
« White Lion »
MASTERPIECE COLLECTION
Recommended Retail Price : 260,000 €
Case and clasp : Platinum 950
267 diamonds (5,97 carats) and 26 black spinels (0,88 carats)
Diameter 44,5mm x Thickness 14,4mm
Caliber Spring Drive 8 Days 9R01
Availability : May 2022 from selected Grand Seiko Boutiques
