Grand Seiko New Releases for 2022

Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon

　Grand Seiko has announced the "Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon," featuring the "Caliber 9ST1," a completely redesigned movement that inherits the structure of the "T0 Constant-Force Tourbillon" concept movement announced in 2020. Limited to just 20 pieces worldwide, this is Grand Seiko's first complication watch, making it a historic piece.

　The T0 and Cal.9ST1 are characterized by a structure that combines a constant-force mechanism, which keeps the force transmitted to the balance constant, with a tourbillon, all on the same axis. This structure allows the tourbillon, which can offset positional differences but is difficult to operate stably, to be kept in an ideal operating state by the constant-force mechanism, contributing to the realization of high precision.

　While inheriting the basic design concept from the T0, the Cal.9ST1 has undergone a complete redesign of over 340 parts, achieving a compact size that fits into a 43.8mm case diameter, while also successfully enhancing the unique tone of this model, making it even more beautiful and pleasant. This tone is the sound of the balance wheel vibrating eight times per second, plus the constant-force movement operating once per second, producing a 16-beat sound that cannot be heard in other mechanisms. This tone is therefore symbolic of the unique mechanism of the Cal.9ST1.

　The Cal. 9ST1 also boasts a highly refined design and finish. This model, within Grand Seiko's "Seiko Style" design grammar, focuses on the sensitivity to find beauty in the subtle nuances of light and shadow. The Cal. 9ST1, which integrates two mechanisms, creates a sense of depth within the case, allowing light to shine in from both the front and back of the case, casting shadows that create a rich range of expression depending on the direction and intensity of the light.

　The strap is made of "Himeji Kurozan leather," which is tanned and processed using the same techniques as armor. This Himeji Kurozan leather is made by applying lacquer to the grained parts of tanned cowhide, and is characterized by its volume and luster, which are created by repeatedly applying and drying it. In addition, a replacement strap made of high-quality crocodile leather on both the front and back is included.

　The key point about this watch is that this complicated mechanism was designed to achieve high precision, and indeed it does. A new Grand Seiko standard inspection was established for this watch, with the test duration being double that of previous models, at 48 hours. Accuracy was measured in six positions and at three temperatures over a 34-day period, and the results are documented in a special certificate.

　Furthermore, practicality has also been taken into consideration. The hour hand follows the traditional Grand Seiko design, but a new six-facet design has been adopted, improving visibility. A ruby ​​is also affixed to one arm of the constant-force carriage, which serves as the second hand. The tourbillon carriage can be stopped by pulling out the crown, allowing for accurate time setting to the second. Furthermore, despite being a complication watch, it is water resistant to 10 bar.

Masterpiece Collection Spring Drive 8 Days Jewelry Watch SBGD209

　Grand Seiko has announced the Spring Drive 8 Days Jewelry Watch SBGD209. Equipped with the Caliber 9R01, crafted by Micro Artist Studio in Shinshu, this watch is limited to just five pieces.

　This latest model is based on the white lion, which has an overwhelming presence among the lions that have been the symbol of the brand since the birth of the first Grand Seiko in 1960. The lion, known as the king of beasts, has historically been regarded as a symbol of power, dignity, and royalty, and Grand Seiko has used it as a symbol to express its "will to create the finest wristwatches."

　The platinum case serves as a canvas evoking the majestic white fur of a white lion, while the dial is adorned with diamonds and black spinels. The contrast between the light reflected by the diamonds and the natural black precious stone, the black spinels, function as minute markers, expressing Grand Seiko's concept of "light and shadow." The number and thickness of the black spinels also improves the visibility of the indexes, a stance that is characteristic of Grand Seiko, as it emphasizes practicality even in jewelry watches. The center of the dial is adorned with an organic, embossed pattern reminiscent of a mane.

　This model has a case shape reminiscent of the 44GS, which established the current Seiko style, and diamonds are set into the lugs of the case, expressing the beautiful shine of the lion's sharpened claws.

　The movement is the Cal. 9R01, made by Micro Artist Studio, and its finish has already received high praise. The movement design visible through the case back is also unique, with the bridge shaped like Mount Fuji, the rotor representing the sun, the ruby ​​representing the lights of Suwa city, and the power reserve indicator representing Lake Suwa, depicting a view of the sacred Mount Fuji from the birthplace of Spring Drive.