Introducing the Grand Seiko SBGW295 Limited Edition
Seiko continues to celebrate the 110th anniversary of its first wristwatch, the Laurel, which we had the opportunity to talk about here. And it is in this context that it now presents us with the Brillant Hard Titanium re-creation of the first Grand Seiko timepiece, which is presented with an Urushi lacquer dial and maki-e hour markers crafted.
Urushi lacquer, which has a great tradition in Japan, is mainly used for preservation due to its antiseptic and preservative characteristics. These days, it exists in very small quantities in Japan, but despite that remains the exclusive source of the lacquer used by Grand Seiko on its watches.
The jet-black colour of the Urushi on the dial is obtained by adding iron, followed by a special treatment that allows its colour to be preserved over time.
The maki-e hour markers are built up, layer upon layer, through the application of lacquer followed by 24k gold powder applied and polished fastidiously by the artisan.
So the Re-creation of the first Grand Seiko wears a brilliant hard titanium case measuring 38mm in diameter by 10.9mm thick, smooth bezel, elegant lugs, dual-curved sapphire crystal, fluted crown, see-through case back and 30m of water resistance.
On the black Urushi lacquer dial, as already mentioned, rest gold maki-e hour markers and sword hands, with the seconds and minute hands slightly curved down towards the dial. Finally, the application of the brand’s lettering at 12 o’clock is faithful to the original 1960 creation, as well as the inscription “Diashock 24 jewels” at 6 o’clock, both also in gold.
Inside, it is equipped with the Caliber 9S64 manual movement, which operates at 28,800 Vph and offers up to 72 hours of power reserve.
The watch is offered with two black straps, the first incorporating the Japanese “Yoroiori” technique used for making samurai armour and which translates into lacing strips of calf leather and fabric while the second is a soft leather strap.
The new SBGW295 is a limited edition of 500 pieces, which will be available from February 2023 in the brand’s official boutiques and in some authorized retailers for a price of €14,700.
Read more here.
General Specifications:
Brand: Grand Seiko
Reference: SBGW295
Dial: Black Urushi lacquer
Case Material: Brilliant Hard Titanium
Case Dimensions: 38 mm diameter, 10.9 mm thickness
Crystal: Sapphire glass
Case Back: Sapphire glass
Water Resistance: 30 Meters
Strap: Two black leather straps
Caliber: 9S64
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Winding: Manual
Jewels: 24
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Price: € 14,700
Availability: February 2023
Limited Edition: Yes, 500 pieces
