Seiko has earned a global reputation as a Japan-made watch. Among them, the Grand Seiko and Credor brands are both extremely popular. We will explain the differences between each brand and introduce some carefully selected recommended models.
Seiko Basics
Both Grand Seiko and Credor are brands independent of Seiko. Let's understand the characteristics of each brand and the history of Seiko.
Founded in 1881, a world-renowned Japanese watch giant
Seiko was founded in 1881 and in just 30 years grew to account for 6% of Japan's watch production at the time. It subsequently increased its presence both domestically and internationally, receiving high praise at the Swiss Observatory Competition.
In 1969, the company released the world's first quartz wristwatch, sending shock waves around the world. This triggered the so-called "quartz shock," which saw a temporary drop in sales in the mechanical watch industry in Europe, including Switzerland.
However, even before the practical application of quartz wristwatches, Seiko was already close to rivaling renowned Swiss manufacturers in terms of mechanical wristwatch technology, and had established a reputation as a world-renowned Japanese watch brand, serving as the official timekeeper for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Comparing Grand Seiko and Credor
Grand Seiko is a brand that was born in 1960 with the aim of creating the finest domestically produced watches that could compete on the world stage, and is characterized by its elegant and timeless design.
Grand Seiko went dormant for a time, but was revived in 1988 with a quartz movement. Then, in 2004, a model equipped with Spring Drive, a hybrid mechanical and quartz mechanism, was released. Then, in 2017, Grand Seiko became an independent brand.
Like Grand Seiko, Credor is also an independent brand from Seiko. It was launched in 1974 as a "special selection watch" made of precious metals such as gold and platinum, and became independent in 2019, marking its 45th anniversary.
Among the watches that Seiko produces, it is characterized by the large number of models that pursue luxury and aesthetic sense. There are also rare models, which are popular both in Japan and overseas.
Recommended Grand Seiko Models
Grand Seiko offers three collections. Let's take a look at some of the recommended models that represent each collection.
"Elegance Collection" Ref.SBGR261
Automatic winding (Cal. 9S65), 35 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 39.5 mm, thickness 13.1 mm). Water resistant for everyday use. Price: 638,000 yen (tax included).
This is an "Elegance Collection" model that inherits the classic form of the original Grand Seiko, but is equipped with the mechanical automatic movement Cal. 9S65.
The tasteful ivory dial and blue steel second hand are stylishly combined, and combined with the leather strap, it exudes an elegant classic style.
When fully wound, it will last for approximately three days, and thanks to the use of the latest hairspring, it also features more stable accuracy during everyday use.
"Heritage Collection" Ref.SBGR309
Automatic movement (Cal. 9S68). 35 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 42mm, thickness 13.1mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 638,000 yen (tax included).
With a 42mm case, this model stands out among the other models in the Heritage Collection. Despite its large size, the tapered lugs give it a stylish silhouette.
The three-dimensional indexes harmonize with the large case, creating a powerful impression. The black dial with its radial pattern also exudes a sense of solidity.
The watch is fitted with the large automatic Cal. 9S68 movement, which features a convenient calendar function and is a testament to the craftsmanship and manufacturing techniques of the parts.
"Sports Collection" Ref.SBGH291
Automatic movement (Cal. 9S85). 37 jewels. 36,000 vph. Power reserve approximately 55 hours. Bright titanium case (diameter 43.8mm, thickness 14.7mm). 200m water resistant for air diving. Price: 1,067,000 yen (tax included).
Among the Grand Seiko sports collection, the Ref. SBGH291 is a high-performance diver's watch with a unidirectional rotating bezel and 200m water resistance for air diving.
While the case is large, measuring 43.8mm in diameter and 14.7mm thick, it's also lightweight thanks to the bright titanium used for the case and bracelet. Lightweight watches are comfortable to wear and recommended for everyday use. The titanium material is also given a distortion-free mirror finish using Zaratsu polishing, and along with the powerful hour and minute hands and lustrous unidirectional rotating bezel, it exudes the dignity of a luxury diver's watch.
