Based in Ginza, the birthplace of Seiko, the Grand Seiko Flagship Boutique Ginza is a special boutique that serves as the flagship store for Grand Seiko sales worldwide. Spread across two floors, this location offers the brand's unique worldview, and there are topics that watch connoisseurs should pay attention to. These are the limited edition models and Wako-exclusive models, as well as a special custom order plan, which we will be introducing today.
Kouki Doi (this magazine): Interview and text Edited & Text by Kouki Doi (Chronos-Japan)
Discover a special Grand Seiko at Wako in Ginza
(in)"Grand Seiko Heritage Collection Ginza Limited 2022 Model SBGH297"Automatic movement (Cal. 9S85). 37 jewels. 36,000 vph. Power reserve of approximately 55 hours. Stainless steel (diameter 40mm, thickness 12.9mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Limited to 260 pieces in Ginza (sold only at five stores, including the Grand Seiko Flagship Boutique Ginza). 770,000 yen (tax included). *Due to popular demand, preorders may sell out at the time of release.
(left)Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection Chronograph 15th Anniversary Limited Edition Model SBGC249Automatic Spring Drive (Cal. 9R96). 50 jewels. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Bright titanium (diameter 45.3mm, thickness 15.8mm). Limited to 700 pieces worldwide (300 in Japan). Price: 143 million yen (tax included).
Wako, a symbol of Ginza, will change the name of its building to "Seiko House Ginza" on Time Memorial Day, June 10, 2022. In conjunction with this, the "Grand Seiko Boutique Flagship Wako" located on the first and second floors will be upgraded and reborn as the "Grand Seiko Flagship Boutique Ginza." The Grand Seiko sales area will also be partially renovated. In this article, we will introduce the noteworthy models lined up at the "Grand Seiko Watch Collection" event, which will be held at the flagship store from June 10 to 29, as well as the special custom order plan.
One item that is unique to Wako and cannot be overlooked is the "Heritage Collection Wako Exclusive Model" SBGH241, which is only available in stores. Its champagne gold dial with Arabic numerals at 6, 9, and 12, and a 37mm diameter case that is not found in the lineup of regular mechanical high-beat models, give it a special feel. The blue second hand, which ticks at a high beat of 10 vibrations per second, stands out, and its simplicity yet individuality is evident.
The sky blue dial of the Heritage Collection Ginza Limited 2022 Model SBGH297 is particularly eye-catching. The dial, which expresses the "light-filled streets of Ginza," is decorated with the "Ginza grid pattern" that resembles the streets around Wako. The attractive dial attracted so much attention that inquiries were flooded in after its release. The box-shaped sapphire crystal crystal retains a classic look, while the case adopts the modern design of the masterpiece model "62GS," which embodies the brand's philosophy of "evolution of practicality."
Meanwhile, the deep blue dial is featured on the "Evolution 9 Collection Chronograph 15th Anniversary Limited Edition" SBGC249, commemorating the 15th anniversary of the birth of Grand Seiko's chronograph. Equipped with the high-precision Spring Drive caliber 9R96, which achieves accuracy of ±10 seconds per month, this limited edition model expresses the "twinking of the universe that governs time." The bright titanium used for the exterior contributes to its light weight, and despite its impressive 45.3mm case diameter, it fits comfortably on the wrist. To achieve this comfort, the lugs connecting the case and bracelet have been widened, lowering the center of gravity.
During this event, the "Grand Seiko Custom Order - Chronograph - Acceptance Event" will be held. This is a special plan that allows you to combine the colors of the parts provided to create a one-of-a-kind original model. On the second floor, full orders are accepted under the title "Grand Seiko Bespoke Watch," but the prices were previously set at a high 16.5 million yen. However, this time, the prices have been lowered to 198 million yen for the stainless steel model and 297 million yen for the stainless steel and 18K gold model, making custom orders more realistic.
The model in question is the Automatic Spring Drive Chronograph GMT, which boasts enhanced functionality and a sporty design. Customers can choose from nine different dials (hands and abbreviations), five different ceramic bezels, each with three different bezel trims, crowns, chronograph buttons, and clasp patches (same color), four different lion emblems for the case back, and six different strap colors. In-store, customers can consult with Wako sales staff and combine sample parts to decide on each part, making it easy to get an idea of what the finished product will look like. The affordable option of "bespoke" is also a great option.
●The reservation form for the "Grand Seiko Custom Order - Chronograph - Acceptance Meeting" can be found at the following URL: https://airrsv.net/wako-watch-GS/calendar
