Grand Seiko Unveils Limited Editions For Caliber 9R Spring Drive’s 20th Anniversary
Grand Seiko has introduced two limited-edition watches, the SBGY035 and SBGA499, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their Caliber 9R Spring Drive. These watches, each with a unique burgundy dial inspired by the autumn colours and sunrise over Japan’s Hotaka Mountain, showcase the brand’s dedication to combining traditional craftsmanship with advanced horological technology.
Grand Seiko SBGY035
The SBGY035 shares the same design language as the SBGY007, featuring a C-shaped stainless steel case measuring 38.50mm in diameter and 10.20mm in thickness. The watch includes a curved sapphire glass, a fluted crown adorned with the Grand Seiko logo, and an exhibition case back that allows for a clear view of the movement inside. It offers a water resistance of 30 meters.
Key characteristics of the SBGY035 include a textured burgundy dial with a gradient effect—darker at the edges and lighter towards the centre. This design is complemented by Dauphine hands, faceted hour markers, and a rose gold-coloured Grand Seiko logo, harmonizing with the tone of the second hand.
The watch is powered by the hand-wound Caliber 9R31 movement, visible through the sapphire case back. This movement is known for its impressive accuracy of ±15 seconds per month and a power reserve of 3 days (72 hours). The SBGY035 is paired with a burgundy leather strap featuring a steel folding clasp, limited to 700 pieces worldwide, and priced at €9,200.
Grand Seiko SBGA499
The SBGA499 resembles the design of the SBGA407 but stands out with its unique burgundy dial, inspired by the rich, warm tones of Hotaka Mountain. The watch is housed in a round stainless steel case with a diameter of 40.20mm and a thickness of 12.80mm. The case is predominantly polished and features sapphire crystals on both the front and back, drilled lugs, and a crown positioned at 3 o’clock bearing the Grand Seiko logo. This model boasts a higher water resistance of 100 meters.
Its burgundy dial is smoother compared to the textured finish of the SBGY035 but maintains a similar elegant appearance. It includes a framed date window near the crown and a copper-toned power reserve indicator located at 7:30.
The SBGA499 is equipped with the automatic movement Caliber 9R65, visible through the transparent case back. This movement also offers a 72-hour power reserve. The watch comes on a 3-link steel bracelet with a folding clasp featuring the Grand Seiko logo. Limited to 1,300 pieces, the SBGA499 is priced at €6,300.
Both models celebrate the intricate artistry and technical prowess of Grand Seiko, offering collectors a beautiful tribute to the 20th anniversary of the Caliber 9R Spring Drive, while capturing the essence of Japanese autumn.
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General Specifications:
Brand: Grand Seiko
Model: Elegance Collection 9R
Reference: SBGY035, SBGA499
Dial: Burgundy
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 38.50 mm x 10.20 mm (SBGY035), 40.20 mm x 12.80 mm (SBGA499)
Crystal: Sapphire glass
Case Back: Sapphire glass
Water Resistance: 30 Meters (SBGY035), 100 meters (SBGA499)
Strap: Burgundy leather strap with a folding clasp (SBGY035), stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp (SBGA499)
Calibre: 9R31 (SBGY035), 9R65 (SBGA499)
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date (SBGA499), power reserve indicator (SBGA499)
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 Vph)
Jewels: 30
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Price: € 9,200 (SBGY035), € 6,300 (SBGA499)
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: Yes, 700 pieces (SBGY035) and 1,300 pieces (SBGA499)
