A Day With Grand Seiko In Madrid: Precision, Elegance, And Innovation
On September 24th, at the kind invitation of Grand Seiko, we traveled to Madrid to join colleagues from the Spanish press and discover the brand’s latest horological creations. The setting could not have been more inspiring: the recently opened Brach Madrid, part of the Evok Collection and designed by Philippe Starck. The hotel embodies a modern nostalgia with its 1920s and 1930s influences, blending contrasts to create a uniquely elegant atmosphere.
The event was hosted by the ever-welcoming Frédéric Bondoux, president of Grand Seiko Europe, whom we had previously met in Lisbon. From the hotel’s spectacular rooftop—offering sweeping views over the cosmopolitan Spanish capital—we enjoyed a convivial lunch under the late summer sun, with temperatures hovering around 25°C. It was in this relaxed and cheerful setting that Bondoux shared insights into Grand Seiko’s steady growth across France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and increasingly Portugal.
But the highlight, of course, was the watches.
The star of the afternoon was the SLGB005 Violet Dawn, a limited edition in steel with a dial that shifts from violet to black depending on the light—a poetic reflection of its name. Like the SLGB003 Ice Forest in titanium, the model showcases the exceptional Spring Drive Caliber 9RB2 UFA (Ultra Fine Accuracy), a movement with an unprecedented annual rate of ±20 seconds, the most precise ever created by Grand Seiko.
Two additional models were also unveiled: the SLGW007 Moonlit Birch, a steel-cased piece with a rich dark blue dial, and the SLGW003 Birch Bark, a titanium version with a silvery-white dial. Both continue the brand’s celebrated “Birch” design lineage, with a refined elegance that resonates deeply with collectors.
The presentation also included Grand Seiko’s impressive chronographs. Leading the way was the Tentagraph SLGC006 Sunrise, a limited edition of 300 pieces crafted in titanium and rose gold, alongside the striking SLGC007 Snow Blue, featuring a titanium case and a distinctive panda dial.
Each of these timepieces represents a balance of artistry and technical mastery—a Grand Seiko signature.
In the end, the day was much more than a product showcase. It was an opportunity to exchange ideas, enjoy the warm Madrid sun, and celebrate watchmaking excellence in the company of passionate colleagues. Grand Seiko once again reminded us that its future is as precise and beautiful as the watches it creates.
