To celebrate the founding of Grand Seiko Corporation of America in 2018, Grand Seiko created a series of limited-edition watches with sparkling dials inspired by kirazuri, an artistic flourish involving mica powder often observed in ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Each watch featured an elegantly textured dial that gently sparkled in the light.
In 2024, Grand Seiko revisits the theme of kirazuri in the SBGA509, which pays tribute to the sunrise over Lake Suwa with its dusty rose hue. Exclusive to the United States, this limited edition model features the iconic 44GS case, conceived in 1967. The 44GS is the watch that established the Grand Seiko Style, a design grammar that would go on to inform all Grand Seiko aesthetics from that moment forward and is responsible for the distinctive style of Grand Seiko watches today. With its mirror-polished surfaces and beguiling interplay of light and shadow, this design perfectly complements kirazuri dial of SBGA509. As a re-interpretation of the original 44GS, this watch comes with a case and bracelet crafted from stainless steel.
Caliber 9R65, the first Grand Seiko Spring Drive movement, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, has been called upon to power this exclusive creation. Endowed with an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month (approximately ±1 second per day) and a power reserve of 72 hours, the 9R65 meets the strict criteria that Grand Seiko demands of its movements.
Information:
Pre-Owned: Grand Seiko SBGA509
Reference: SBGA509
Limited: 300 Pieces (US Limited)
Dated: 2024
Bracelet: Stainless Steel
Case Size: 41mm x 12.5mm Thickness x 46.2mm Lug to Lug
Lug Width: 19mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel
Movement: 9R65 - Automatic
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date
Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, booklet, and warranty papers
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.5”
Condition:
Case has no wear. Bracelet has no wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Runs within GS spec.
About Grand Seiko
Grand Seiko emerged in 1960 as a high-end watch line from Seiko, aiming to challenge Swiss dominance in luxury watchmaking. The brand quickly established itself with Japan's first chronometer-grade watch and later gained renown for its innovative Spring Drive technology, which combines the best of automatic and quartz movements. In 2017, Grand Seiko became an independent entity, solidifying its position in the luxury watch market.
The brand's design philosophy, known as the "Grammar of Design," was established in 1967 with the Grand Seiko 44GS. This aesthetic approach emphasizes legibility, refined appearances, and distinctive features like multi-faceted markers and hands, a half-recessed crown, and the meticulous Zaratsu polishing technique. Grand Seiko continues to push boundaries in watchmaking, as evidenced by recent innovations like the "Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon," while maintaining its commitment to precision engineering and unique design language.
