Six Classic Grand Seiko Models: Introduction by Movement

2020.10.27

Grand Seiko watches boast sophisticated designs and practicality that surpasses many Swiss luxury watches. We introduce six classic models from Japan's luxury watch brands, categorized by movement. We hope you'll choose one that will stylishly adorn your wrist.

Grand Seiko


Tips for choosing a watch

Grand Seiko offers high precision in both its mechanical and quartz watches, and models equipped with Seiko's proprietary Spring Drive mechanism have a unique appeal.

In addition to the drive system, you should also pay attention to the case and dial design to understand how to choose a Grand Seiko.

Mechanical and Spring Drive series

Cal.9S85

One of Grand Seiko's most representative movements is the automatic movement, Cal. 9S85. It achieves stable accuracy with a vibration frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour.

Grand Seiko watches are divided into three types of drive systems: mechanical, quartz, and the company's proprietary Spring Drive.

Mechanical movements, powered by a mainspring, are powerful, while quartz movements, regulated by a quartz crystal oscillator and IC, achieve high precision. Spring Drive is an innovative movement that combines both mechanisms.

Grand Seiko mechanical movements begin with "9S," quartz movements with "9F," and Spring Drive movements with "9R." Because the drive system affects the performance of a watch, it's a good idea to start your selection from the movement.

Cal.9F86

Cal. 9F86 was released in 2018 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the birth of Caliber 9F. It was the first Grand Seiko quartz movement to feature a GMT function.

Cal.9R66

Grand Seiko's first Spring Drive movement was born in 2004. Two years later, the Cal. 9R66, equipped with a GMT function, was released.

Case and dial design

The differences in the movements are also reflected in the dial decoration. Models with date displays, power reserve indicators, or GMT functions are of course available, but there are also ways to express individuality with black or blue dials.

Grand Seiko watches are also available in three styles: the Elegance Collection, which features dress watches with classic designs; the Heritage Collection, which features sharp and unpretentious business watches; and the Sports Collection, which features diver's watches and models with a dignified, sporty design.


A classic mechanical model

Grand Seiko is known for the impressive performance of its quartz and Spring Drive movements, but it goes without saying that its mechanical watches also boast precision that surpasses that of luxury Swiss watches. Let's take a look at two classic, simple and practical 9S mechanical models.

Pursuing the standard Heritage Collection SBGR317

SBGR317

SBGR317
Automatic movement (Cal. 9S65). 35 jewels. 36,000 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 40 mm). Enhanced water resistance for everyday use (10 bar). 700,000 yen (excluding tax).

The SBGR253, part of the Heritage Collection, is a model that embodies the essence of Grand Seiko with its simple and timeless design. It is a three-hand model with a date display, and the display elements such as the indexes and hands stand out against the black dial.

Although it looks like a standard Grand Seiko, the Cal. 9S65 movement boasts a maximum power reserve of approximately 72 hours (3 days). The movement has been meticulously finished, making it a reliable model.

Elegant mechanical watch for adults, Elegance Collection SBGR261

SBGR261

SBGR261
Automatic movement (Cal. 9S65). 35 jewels. 28,800 vph. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 39.5mm). Water resistant for everyday use. Price: 470,000 yen (excluding tax).

The SBGR261 from the Elegance Collection is a classic round watch equipped with the Cal. 9S65, just like the SBGR317.

The retro box-shaped sapphire crystal reveals the ivory dial and blue steel second hand. It pairs well with the brown crocodile leather strap, making it a sophisticated dress watch for adults.