Classic Grand Seiko style with a dial reminiscent of morning frost in early winter.
Grand Seiko began building elevated watches meant to compete with the best from Switzerland in the 1960s. The technique of polishing steel to incredibly high standards using Zaratsu polishing allowed the Japanese maker to catch eyes in jewelry cases alongside Swiss watches in precious metals. This technique went on to become highly regarded on its own merits, appreciated by savvy watch collectors as an elevated horological artform. Grand Seiko also assured demanding customers with high performance movements, often with chronometer ratings, and Grand Seiko competed against the best of Switzerland with mechanical innovations that put the Swiss on notice. But Seiko’s greatest triumph was delivering the first electronic quartz movements, literally causing economic havoc on the Swiss watch industry through the 1970s. Spring-Drive technology incorporates Seikos knowledge of chronometer-grade mechanical movements and the brand’s expertise in electronic movements, bridging the two realms in one of the most precise mechanical systems ever produced. The SBGA465 captures all of these excellent features of Grand Seiko in a relatively affordable stainless steel sports watch that’s captured the very essence of the brand.
Grand Seiko has taken Japan’s micro-seasons to the dials of many watches, but few have captured the imagination like those that replicate winter weather. The SBGA465’s dial replicates an early morning in early winter when the sun catches the frost but has yet to melt it. The effect is dazzling upon close inspection (especially with a loupe), yet remains understated, making this a versatile, everyday timepiece. Also shimmering like ice are the diamond-cut hands and markers, polished to the point of appearing like precious metal. The power reserve gauge at 8-o’clock keeps track of the mainspring’s stored energy, up to 72 hours when fully wound. We are especially fond of the black text, date numerals, and power reserve gauge markings, which subtly help the white frosty dial appear to glow.
This is a watch you’ll find yourself looking at during free moments, oblivious of its incredibly precise timekeeping capabilities. Speaking of which, the Spring Drive movement represents a truly unique approach to mechanical watchmaking. The cal. 9R65 uses a typical mainspring to store power, and it delivers that power to a fully mechanical going train. What’s different is that rather than using a mechanical escapement to regulate the release of power, the Spring-Drive mechanism uses an electromagnetic braking system regulated by an integrated circuit containing a quartz-oscillator. But there is no battery, and the mechanical mainspring delivers ample torque to drive the relatively weighty steel hands with precision at less than 15-seconds per month deviation. Incredible. Despite this incredible movement, the stainless steel series-9 case and bracelet are perhaps Grand Seiko’s strongest suit when it comes to this style of watch. Zaratsu-polished surfaces come up against beautifully brushed steel at ultra-sharp connection points. Zaratsu polishing involves a flat belt sander, rather than a round polishing wheel, which allows the craftsperson to hone distortion-free flat surfaces with mirror-like perfection. It’s a difficult method in which heat and polishing angle must be regulated very precisely by hand. Seiko first employed this technique in order to compete with precious metal watches from Switzerland, and Grand Seiko’s steel cases have successfully elevated steel to the level of gold and platinum.
The SBGA465 has fast become a favorite among fans of Grand Seiko, bringing together the imaginative, nature-inspired dials, impeccable polishing, and mechanical precision the brand is known for.
Here is a tremendous Grand Seiko in Collectors Quality! Gorgeous Morning Frost Dial that is ever more Gorgeous in person!! Brand New Sept 2022! A complete set, Seiko Factory Warranty, and in As-New Condition!!
BRAND: Grand Seiko
MODEL: Spring Drive SBGA465
MOVEMENT: Japanese Spring Drive – Caliber 9R65
CASE: Stainless Steel
CROWN: Screw Down
SIZE: 40mm
LUGS: 20mm
DIAL: Gorgeous White “Morning Frost” Dial
BEZEL: Non-rotating
CONDITION: Pre-owned – As-New! Brand New Sept 2022!!
BOXES/PAPERS: Yes/Yes: 100% Complete Grand Seiko Box Set! – comes with everything as shown in pictures!
WATER RESISTANCE: – 100m
STRAP/BRACELET: – Original Grand Seiko Stainless Steel bracelet with all links!
