Thanks to this channel, I bought a Grand Seiko to add to my collection. For reference, I started with Casios and then Seikos. Few years ago I went and got an Oyster Perpetual 36. Great looking bit of kit. Had the opportunity to buy an Explorer 1 and did so and I love them both. I had the opportunity to get a GS SBGR073. Modest 9S65 movement, no spring drive or high beat. One at beats at the same rate as the calibres in my Rolexes. I got it for less than £2K. A bargain in a sense. It's my favourite watch. The finishing on the hands, indices and case is just sublime. The decoration on the movement is impeccable. Buying it made me feel I got ripped off when buying the Rolexes and in essence, I was. Because the GS just beats Rolex in everything but brand recognition. You buy a Rolex to impress others but you buy an Grand Seiko to impress yourself.
@sdaafasfad So you are saying you bought two Rolex’s to impress people, and have never tried to impress anyone with your GS …… except here of course 🙄 Omega and now GS fanboys cannot stop droning on about how great they think they and their watches are, but the reality is they just have a huge chip on their shoulders.
@@alfieakaronaldog come on man. I've got omegas in the collection, an aqua terra. I've got tudors. Variety is the spice of life of course. I'm merely stating that the finishing on the GS's are far superior to watches that cost me substantially more. Not saying I don't like Rolexes, I've actually got my OP36 on today, I love it. Merely stating that the finishing on the GS is far superior to that on my rolex. It sounds as though you're the one with the chip on your shoulder. Relax a bit. No need to get so upset 😂
@@yamkaw346 They look good. But they are cheaper when compared to other bracelets. I almost immediately replaced my bracelet with a good quality gator strap.
Happened to purchase my first GS today (413) and it certainly wont be my last. I'm relatively new to the world of watches and this was my first big purchase, my reasons are pretty straight forward: 1. It looks wonderful 2. I'm a sucker for a smooth sweep 3. I love titanium 4. I think the Spring Drive is a mechanical marvel bordering on witchcraft
Thank you Andrew for this video, highlighting what special about GS. Sorry, bit of a long story here, but I purchased the GS SBGR 309 last year as a way to remember a friend who had passed in 2021. He was an ultra hard core Japanese guy who was incredibly proud of Japanese products (and heritage),and always talked about buying a GS someday. Not knowing anything about the brand (or watches), I listened to him ramble on about the GS quality of movement and the finish. When he passed, I promised his wife I’ll buy one someday as a way to remember him. So, two years after his death and had saved up enough money to buy one, I decided to go with the 309 in 42mm…large, I know. I was not expecting the watch to be this amazing! Good Lord, the mirrored finish of the case, the razor-like hands & indices were like freaking diamonds when light reflected off it! The ink-like finish of the black dial was like the finish on a grand piano. Let me not forget the glorious auto movement under that see through caseback! Everything was absolutely done to perfection! The photos online and RUclips videos I studied prior to the purchase gives Grand Seiko no justice! It’s a completely different watch in person! My friend wasn’t kidding about the quality of GS. Rest in peace my friend❤👏🏼
Sorry you lost your friend, but glad you have something as special as asGS to remember him by,. I agree totally with the narrator comment that you buy a Rolex to impress someone else but a GS to impress yourself...and the memory of a good friend
I stopped in a Rolex AD to buy the new Air king. I left with my name on a list. Then I stopped in the closet Grand Seiko AD and walk out with a new SBGA415 "Winter" Spring Drive. I had choices between the SBGA 211"Snowflake", the 413 "Shunbun" and the 415. All 3 were in inventory. The Titanium case and the Blue second hand of the 415 won me over.
I wanted a Rolex for my first luxury watch, but they wouldn’t sell me one. I walked into the GS Boutique across the road and walked out with an SBGJ249. I love it. I love the fact that I know it’s superior in almost every way, and no one else does. It’s like a secret no one else is in on. And best of all, it’s beautiful. I catch myself just staring at it. GS for me.
I completely agree with the "secret no one else is on" part. I have the SBGM221 and nobody knows what it's worth, in terms of money but more so in terms of horology and attention to detail. I live in a rather small city in France and I think we might be only 2 people here wearing one in secret. We know each other and we like being in such a small vip group ! The conversations around a GS (for those who can spot one) are far more interesting than small talk over Rolexes. Plus, no one asks you if it's a real one.
Each time I wear my SBGE257, I spend an inordinate amount of time just LOOKING at it. The perfection of design and execution makes my Datejust look almost primitive. I'm SO glad that I went for my GS. Spring drive? The icing on the cake...
My first big watch was an oyster perpetual. I sold it within 2 months after I discovered GS. Genuinely felt ripped off after seeing what GS does for the same price. I bought an SBGM221 and have bought a cherry blossom and 60th anniversary blue dial dress watch. They’re incomparable and I can only hope we get more brands that execute at the level they do in this price bracket. Something tells me we won’t but, I’d be happy giving them my money for the rest of my life.
I own a GS Omiwatari and quarts 37m SBGX261 and love them both. Recently I saw the SBGY009 in person and was blown away. The indices actually scattered the light like a rainbow! I am in the process of trying to save up for a Toge version of the GMT... you really could buy a complete collection of GS and have an awesome variety to choose from... spring drive, quartz, hi-beat, and more... truly a unique company.
Comparing GS's dual impulse escapement to Daniel's co-axial escapement is interesting because they take somewhat parallel approaches but have completely opposite philosophies behind them. In mechanical watch movements there is an intrinsic trade off between beat rate and wear, since higher beat movements need more torque and the parts move more frequently, both of which generate more friction. GS sees this trade off as worth it for the increased short term rate stability the higher beat rate gives you, and designed the dual-impulse escapement to minimize the drawbacks of the high beat rate through increasing energy transfer efficiency to reduce torque requirements. Daniel's did not see this kind of trade off as worth it, and designed the co-axial with the aim of absolutely minimizing wear and used low beat rates to support that goal, extending service intervals and reducing long term rate drift from lubricants in the escapement aging, but at the cost of lower short term rate stability. It's funny how diametrically opposed conclusions about the beat rate vs wear trade off produced such parallel lines of development.
I was at a jeweler last week and there was a display case full of GS: the details are mindblowingly eye watering and were putting IWC and Rolex on the other display cases at a shame!
I must say that the Grand Seiko is an exemplar of perfection that truly captivates my senses. The intricate movements, the artistry of its craftsmanship, and the delicate yet dazzling snow dial that emulates the ethereal beauty of ice and snow are a testament to the expertise of its makers. The impressive 8 day power reserve and the understated elegance of its minimalistic design further enhance its allure. As a connoisseur of fine timepieces, I cannot help but admire the exquisite beauty of the Grand Seiko and appreciate the artistry that went into its creation.
Amazing video as usual Grand Seiko. I love them. I have two (Shunbun SBGA413 and Godzilla SBGA405- my fav of theirs). I also love the Night Birch and the SBGK005 (possibly their best). And the GMTs (particularly SBGE257) are great. There’s a but. And a controversial one! Much as I respect Grand Seiko for their dials and movement. They are watches best appreciated at 6 inches…and in well taken macro shots like this video. You can’t fully appreciate the exquisite detail on the dial from 2 foot or more away, unless you bring the watch close. Yes the finishing is good but you need more… This is where I hope GS focus now. The overall design, feel and bracelet. So it’s less subtle. This is where other brands are beating them (Rolex, Cartier…even Panerai) with iconic designs. AND their bracelet design isn’t there yet, and they don’t taper enough. This is where Rolex beat them. Plainer dials (although amazing natural stone and sunburst options), arguably inferior movements, but much better overall design and beautiful bracelets. This is what you feel from more than 6 inches away. I’m saying this as a fan of GS….but currently they are mostly watches you fully appreciate in extreme close up. I say mostly, as I think the night birch, Godzilla, and SBGK005 are some of the exceptions that hold up from more than a foot away. Amazing video. Controversial view.
Great video! Nobody works harder for your $10k than GS, unbelievable quality for cost. White Birch HB and Shunbun are part of my collection & counting the days until the Omiwatari gets added
There are some fantastic Grand Seiko’s, watchmaking at its best. What I really miss in their line-up is a Rolex Explorer and Omega Aqua Terra competitor, small (max. 37 mm), water resistant up to 100/150 meters with a screw-down crown, no=date and rugged. An icon for decades to come.
I LOVE Grand Seiko. I currently have a 4520-8000 from 1969, a SBGE253 (Spring Drive GMT), SBGA229 (Spring Drive diver), and my newest acquisition which arrives tomorrow, the SBGV245 (9F Quartz movement). It’s crazy how under the radar GS still is considering the value proposition with how much watch you get for the money. This isn’t to say I won’t someday buy a Rolex but I think my heart will always be with GS.
Out of all the watches out there, nothing can beat the spring drive. The smooth sweeping hand is just mesmerising. And we haven't even talk about the dials on GS which are the main attraction (for me).
Grand Seiko is the only other watch I'd consider, if I couldn't have my beloved SMP300M.. The GS is pure beauty, and pure technology, combined in an almost perfect package.. A truly great video,,, thank you so much...
Grand Seiko has always made me smile since i heard the history of the brand for the first time. That "let's beat these guys at their own game" approach that you still see in every time piece they produce today. I do love what they do. The finesse and elegance on their watches. I would only wish they would not make so many different ones as you are always in doubt if buying this one as maybe the next one will be amazing... And it will be...
I couldn't agree more. I'd add the humbleness of all this monument of a job. As Japanese, they don't like to brag about fuss. They let the product tell the customers how much care, engineering, craftsmanship, and quality are embedded in it. No sponsorships, no marketing catchphrases, no endorsement on adventure nor blingy life. Their products gently whisper, "This is not the best watch in the world, but it's our best. Hope you'll like it."
Grand Seiko's Quartz movements are astoundingly amazing as well. SBGP017 "Sea of Clouds" is one such example with an exquisite dial and beast of a movement.
Really love what Grand Seiko make and it's also amazing value for what you get. Looking to buy one myself currently. I found when comparing them to other brands like Rolex it seems to be the case of you need to spend at least twice as much to get a Rolex that is still not as nice looking as a grand seiko. In fact many Rolex's i can't help find boring to look at or even tacky even if still looking high end.
The Seiko escapement is quite similar to the Daniels' co-axial escapement but is more like an older design called the Robin escapement.The Robin escapement is a chronometer style escapement, with impulse to the balance directly from the escape wheel, but controlled by a lever type mechanism, it only impulses in one direction. Seiko have added a second, conventional impulse from the second locking pallet, this prevents the escapement 'setting' and stopping the watch, which was the failure of the Robin escapement in wrist watches. I can't help but think that Seiko didn't want to be seen licencing the Daniels', so came up with the next best thing.
Comparing with Rolex seems to be a must. Based on my experience Rolex is great, reliable and very precise. No doubt GS has amazing dials and great finishing but the movements? Let’s exclude the spring drive - they are thick - even if not automatic. Hand wound, Automatic and Hi Beat are much less precise as my GMT Master II. Not only on paper but measured. This is where GS can improve. And with the bracelet and with the leather straps too.
Grand Seiko are in a world of their own. No one can compete with them. The Spring Drive, now with the 120 Hour/5 Day power reserve 9RA2 movement takes them into another stratosphere. Rolex will always have its followers and market. That is getting more limited as time goes on whereas Grand Seiko is gaining more and more followers than ever before. See where GS will be in 5 years time! It will take more of The Lion share mark my words.
@@phoenix5054 he was talking about quality, not a popularity contest. but hublot is huge... they're bigger than most watch brands. They advertise during big soccer games in europe, tens of millions of people watch those games.
I own a snowflake SBGA211. It really not that big and the dial is mesmerizing. But that Snowmoon and the GMT at the beginning of the video are both making me considering an upgrade.
After lots of hit and Miss attempts to get the ‘one watch’ I’ve finally cracked it with the SBGA467 and couldn’t be happier. Thanks to this channel for giving me the final nudge
My son has acquired several Rolex watches, most recently a Pepsi. Curiously, he often asks to look at my Snowflake. I think he secretly admires the intricate dial and sweeping second hand.
*But the popular mystique is so hard to create, and Rolex are the master. Rolex also make a great watch, accurate, durable, reliable and good looking, even if that last quality is subjective.*
I think GS feels like a value purchase because it rivals the likes of JLC more than Rolex. It has to do with genuine fine watchmaking and exemplary finishing that’s better for dress watches or more elegant everyday pieces. How many people choose GS for a tool watch?
At Watch & Wonders 2022, GS unveiled the SLGA015. I called Rolex to cancel the order I placed for the Sea Dweller, and went for the BlackStream (nickname for the SLGA015). Every collector must have gone through “Rolex phase” as a beginner, but these days, a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms took over the slot once occupied by the Submariner, the SLGA015 took over the slot reserved for the Sea Dweller. When collecting for my own pleasure, Rolex starts to feel like the Seiko. Everyone have or wants one, but it is beginning to feel boring. I prefer to have something I like, that is special to look at. This is my collection phase anyway. I am collecting for myself.
Unfortunately most GS's lose value as soon as you leave the store + the availability of GS's makes this video kind of a stretched comparison (also unfortunately because its not a swiss watch it will always be at a disadvantage)
Just getting into the watch world, and on surface observation , people who aren't into watches will go for Rolex(s), Royal Oak(s) and Nautilus(es) for the status, and those who are into watches will go for Grand Seiko, Blancpain and Tudor....... well maybe except for Nico, but we all agree on not liking Hublot.
I got a GS Snowflake a couple years ago as my first quality watch and love it. The smoothness of the spring drive is unparalleled, except maybe by their high-beat movement. I also love the face of the SBGK015 Ryosendu, but would like with spring drive or high beat.
Well...I have both in my collection. That GS as beautiful it is, it is not a tool or sport watch like my Rolex, so it is comparing apples to pineapples in my case. I love and enjoy both. The finishing in the GS is out of this world. The Rolex is built like a tank. I have never paid above retail for a Rolex or wait more than some weeks for the watch that I wanted, so no reason to complain.
I’d hazard a guess the GS is built to be even more durable on the inside. The quartz regulator is harder to break than a spinning balance wheel. However, yeah in terms of toolish looks, Rolex kills it
I also have both in my collection. GS definitely can be classified as tool/sports, given the well known shock resistance of Seiko/GS, and that everything in their collection except the Elegance Collection has at least 10Bar WR. Not to mention the consistent use of titanium.
One of them I have is an SBGC249, which is a titanium spring drive chronograph/GMT/date with 72PR and 100m WR. If that's not "tool watch" I don't know what is.
@@sylinmino It maybe for you. And that is respectable. I have a sbgj239 which is 200MWR. Do I think it can take the same level of abuse of my Explorer II Polar? Absolutely no. That doesn't mean it can't. The good thing is...I don't need to find out since I have each watch for different reasons and purposes in my collection.
@@hugohernandez3651 fair point but that may also be a model by model discrepancy. The SBGJ239 has that sapphire bezel insert IIRC, which will resist scratches way better than the Explorer II's steel bezel, but will probably take more damage if impacted harshly.
The question is posed, 'which is your favourite' and this is such a difficult one to answer. Mainly because every time I check, GS has brought out another watch that stops me in my tracks and makes my jaw drop. Honestly, truthfully, and there are no other brands that do this as consistently as they do. I've owned lots of different brands. I like to buy, enjoy, then sell and have another experience with another brand. That pretty much stopped once I bought my first GS. I have sold them but only to buy another one. You just don't admire anything as much on your wrist as you do a grand Seiko.
I bought a Omiwatari after having waiting too long à Datejust (which arrives finally after). It's a marvelous dress watch, a mix of technology and poetry like very few of brands can obtain. By many ways, it's a far better choice than a Rolex.
I do like the dials, and the movements seem cool. I just can't get past the fact that from 10 feet away they look like a $200 regular Seiko. I am also concerned about the content of the GS handbook. Lots of warnings about shock, magnetism, and a warranty that is a bit of a joke. Not to mention a service interval that is 3X less than any Rolex. Give me a better case, better bracelet, better clasp, better warranty, longer service intervals, some good lume, and then maybe I'd take another look. Until then, no.
Gotta agree with Andrew, I LOVE some Rolexes, had a few Myself, but they ARE outshined by a few other Makers, Grand Seiko is DEFINITELY one of those, real thought been put into the minute aesthetics, I could spout on for Hours about My love for the Grandest of Seikos to be honest..but i'll save You the time lol.
Grand Seiko thick cases, and bad bracelet design and function kill this brand for most people looking for watches in the price range that Grand Seiko is now wanting to play in.
when you mirror polish the hands, make sure that the underside of the hadns above (second) is not "raw". .... the look of the underside of the seconds hand @4:40 gave me the chills :D why dont they polish that side as well ?
No, because Credor is comparable to the likes of A. Lange & Söhne, Patek Phillipe, and F.P. Journe As Grand Seiko is comparable to the likes of Omega, Rolex, and IWC.
Gliding second hand and accuracy are very tempting (as long as power reserve is on the rear) but the bracelets need to be better and I just cannot get my head around having what is ultimately a very nice quartz watch, so am sticking to Hi Beat 😍
I'm a mechanical watches enthusiast as you are, and that's the exact reason why I love Springdrive movements. They are the ultimate machines engineered and crafted to become a real small engine producing real power. Power that is used to vibrate a small, in-house, self grown quartz crystal whose only purpose is to regulate the beat rate output of the engine itself... To me, it's mind-blowing. Aside from the fact that it's the biggest revolution in watchmaking since the introduction of the escapement wheel, to me it shows the extreme skills and stunning capability to think out of the box of the Japanese people. And, of course, their love for punctuality and perfection. Pardon me this automotive parallelism: "Real muscle cars are American big V8s with a slight tendency to fit you in a tree at the first corner!" Japanese are like: "Well, here's our interpretation of this statement. We humbly submit to your attention our Nissan GT R." It may not growl as an open exaust american V8, it could be labeled as an expensive driving joypad, it may not have the "heritage" of the 60's, but oh boy what a car! It is more of an experience than a well engineered and built piece of mechanical excellence than the so-called Japanese muscle car. That's what springdrive somehow is. A mesmerizing seconds hand sweeping without clicks giving the illusion of infinity of time, letting you know the time more precisely than any high-end mechanical watch. And all it asks to run, the only fuel it needs, is the movement of your body.
@@Doflaminguard it’s not just the quartz either, there is other circuitry. Quartz watches were called that because it sounded cooler than ‘battery watches’ and the quartz was what gave it accuracy…….. exactly the same as the Spring-drive. A mechanically powered quartz is exactly what a spring drive is I feel.
@alfieakaronaldog No it's not a straight quartz watch like it's not a fully mechanical watch. It's an hybrid, a category of its own. As I stated here above, it's a mechanical micro engine producing the electricity to auto regulate itself. No battery operated like a quartz, no escapement wheel regulated. I find it detrimental to label it as "a quartz watch". It's not. It's a Springdrive.
I think there are two questions: 1) which watch brand is technically superior? 2) which watch brand is the better investment? Generally, Rolex as an investment simply out performs GS every time. There really can't be any argument with that in the present market. Whether GS watches become more sought-after in the future remains to be seen. Personally, I would love a GS in my collection, but I'd be unlikely to buy a new one as an investment piece.
No serious watch collector would ever pay many thousands of dollars to have a watch with the name Seiko on it. I know many serious collectors and no one owns one. Seiko should have followed the Toyota marketing plan which is calling a fancy Toyota a Lexus. Given the opportunity, these Grand Seiko sheep would have bought a Submariner or Daytona in a second. Rolex’s lack of availability have made it easier for the pretenders to flourish.
I think you have to define what you mean by "serious". Same applies in cars. For example there is a certain group of people that seriously drool over a now, no longer manufactured, Subaru. There is another group of people that love to impress people with their underground car collection.
@@joeskeptical4762 That is certainly what a collector should know. But what is the difference between that and a "serious" one? I sniff a logical fallacy here.
Here we go again. More Rolex bashing from Watchfinder. Even tho you sell more Rolex than any other watch on your site. Guess this is a kind of a advertising strategy to sell other brands..
Exactly, it's enough that's a Seiko - a company with a thousand times more history, innovation and horological/technical achievements than Rolex. P.S. Wake me up when Rolex manages to make something new and exciting.
"That's such a typical Japanese humble brag. 'Oh this thing? Well yeah you can't really see it, but we only went ahead and reinvented the Swiss lever escapement that has been used for hundreds of years to make it totally better.'" 😅 100% my type of flex.
Grand Seiko puts quite a few other watches to shame if you are detail oriented and technically minded. As of today, I own two of them, an SGBP011 with a 9F quartz movement, and the SBGW231 hand wound you showcased here. My watch collection is more or less done, I have all I want, one of those pieces being a Cartier Santos. But if I ever buy one more watch, it will be a Grand Seiko Spring Drive with a hand-wound caliber, like the recent Asaborake with the 44GS case. Then I'll have three case shapes, three movement technologies and three dial finishes. I hope to get there in the next three years.
The finish is excellent, although when you see the backside of the seconds hand mirrored in the hour hand, you can see the rough finish on the backside. But this will be invisible 99,99% of the time.
Nice Video! Bought my 1. GS in 2018 Limited Edition SBGJ227 green Peackock Dial; the Dial is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. I sold the Watch in 2019; much regretted, just this Week i spotted a used Peackock and bought it right away. Now the GS is a keeper! Great Watch at a realistic Price!
I love the idea of the spring drive but I would be hard-pressed to tell the difference in smoothness between a Grand Seiko Spring Drive and a Bulova Precisionist by just looking at it. I've seen the Jet Star Limited Edition and there is no waivering in that second hand that I can see. It's also a lot more attainable at $500 than over $8,000. I can say however that the GS 20th-Anniversary SBGM235 is one of my top grail watches, not because of the movement, but because of that incredible dial. I've never seen its equal.
I noticed that as well... in real life, you're never going to notice that on the wrist... 😂😊😊 My Grand Seiko Snowflake & Tentagraph are probably the same... but never noticed
I wasn’t sure what to make of Grand Seiko until I took the time to find a dealer and see for myself. GS makes Rolex look like something from a particularly inept student who wouldn’t make it past the front door, let alone anywhere near where these world standard setting watches are made. My Diver’s 200m is as awesome today as the day I first tried it on. Also not mentioned here but everything is made in-house. Even the Spron alloy in the mainspring is Seiko. Unmatched.
I can well uderstand that watch enthusiasts will want such a fantastic masteroiece. I could probably afford one of the Spring Drives, but for me the important thing in a watch is what I have already: A quartz Seiko from 1997. It has a very clean beautiful design with a white dial. It shows the date and day of the week and is accurate to a few seconds a month. Maintenance cost is around 20 € every two years for a new battery. I got it for a reduced price of ca 100 € in 1997.
Good watch, but as the owner of multiple GS this is what they must improve: 1. Stop making so many limited editions. They just too many, and I mean that in number or different editions as well as in number within the edition. Make one special edition a year only and then limit those truly to a reasonable number, no more then 500 pieces. Anymore is not really limited. So one limited edition model a year only and limit that to 500 pieces. 2. Improve dramatically the bracelets. Both ladder and steal or precious metal bracelet are not good. Sure the metal one has zairatsu polishing, but the gaps between the links are too large, the sides show the pins which should not be seen. Basically look at patek Philippe bracelets and emulate that elegance. The bracelet must look less chunky, and more as part of the watch, melting one into the other. With leder belt more attention must be put on thickness and durability. As it is the leder belts look still very cheap and thin, and the lower side touching the hand should not look like the belt of a cheap watch. The clasp should also integrate the lion figure at the lock always. 3. The lion logo is great. Love it. But I love only the golden one. It is given to only certain watches with higher accuracy. Why not start making all with that accuracy and give all that engraved golden lion figure on the balance wheel and get rid of the cheap glue color sticker looking print on the back of the watch on the glass. Also how about just integrating the lion on the dial next to GS letter so like Rolex has its crown, Grand Seiko would have the lion with GS on the face of the crown. And make it always gold, just because. We are talking about luxury item so why not make the small lions figure real good 4. Also if you already make the back of the watch made of glass to see inside, make sure you actually can see all inside. To put glass on the back of the watch but then under the glass cover 90% of movement so all you see is part of wheels is not elegant, regardless to the references of mt fuji and rising sun or city light. Cover 90% of rhe back only if you wish to make the back of the watch the same dial as the front. Else make sure only 10% is covered to hold the watch and it's moving parts while expose 90% in the back, or don't put glass on the back of watch at all and don't expose it.
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With Spring Drive, Grand Seiko stands alone as the only watchmaker capable of showing the moments between the moments.
Cute
Bulova has a similar movement as well, although those watches don’t look that classy.
Moments between the moments! I love that!
@@sushivision lol what ? Bulovas runs on battery right ?
@@RUclipsuser1aa oooh snarky, say something useful instead of spewing sounds
Thanks to this channel, I bought a Grand Seiko to add to my collection. For reference, I started with Casios and then Seikos. Few years ago I went and got an Oyster Perpetual 36. Great looking bit of kit. Had the opportunity to buy an Explorer 1 and did so and I love them both. I had the opportunity to get a GS SBGR073. Modest 9S65 movement, no spring drive or high beat. One at beats at the same rate as the calibres in my Rolexes. I got it for less than £2K. A bargain in a sense. It's my favourite watch. The finishing on the hands, indices and case is just sublime. The decoration on the movement is impeccable. Buying it made me feel I got ripped off when buying the Rolexes and in essence, I was. Because the GS just beats Rolex in everything but brand recognition. You buy a Rolex to impress others but you buy an Grand Seiko to impress yourself.
now just affix one of your Rolex bracelets to your Seiko and you have a proper wristwatch with out the tinny bracelet
@@misterpsych3804 Well said that man.
Although you forgot to say it might actually fit one’s wrist too!
@sdaafasfad So you are saying you bought two Rolex’s to impress people, and have never tried to impress anyone with your GS …… except here of course 🙄
Omega and now GS fanboys cannot stop droning on about how great they think they and their watches are, but the reality is they just have a huge chip on their shoulders.
@@alfieakaronaldog come on man. I've got omegas in the collection, an aqua terra. I've got tudors. Variety is the spice of life of course. I'm merely stating that the finishing on the GS's are far superior to watches that cost me substantially more. Not saying I don't like Rolexes, I've actually got my OP36 on today, I love it. Merely stating that the finishing on the GS is far superior to that on my rolex. It sounds as though you're the one with the chip on your shoulder. Relax a bit. No need to get so upset 😂
@@sdaafasfadI love all of my 20 Casio’s!🤣👍🏼 But I do have a few upmarket watches too.😉🤫
As someone who owns an Omega, Rolex, Cartier, and Grand Seiko, I can confirm that GS is a notch above the rest in terms of overall quality and value.
They can also be water resistant as well
Except for their bracelets. Those look like shit
@@jez443 Never heard someone say the bracelets look like shit, I love mine. The lack of micro adjust is valid complaint but looks? Idk
@@yamkaw346 They look good. But they are cheaper when compared to other bracelets. I almost immediately replaced my bracelet with a good quality gator strap.
Some of the designs are very corny
Happened to purchase my first GS today (413) and it certainly wont be my last. I'm relatively new to the world of watches and this was my first big purchase, my reasons are pretty straight forward:
1. It looks wonderful
2. I'm a sucker for a smooth sweep
3. I love titanium
4. I think the Spring Drive is a mechanical marvel bordering on witchcraft
Congrats on the purchase and enjoy the journey.
I love how that watch changes how it looks in different lights without drawing other people's attention to it.
I own one too. It was my grail and it's a stunning watch
same as you!
Evolution 9
Thank you Andrew for this video, highlighting what special about GS. Sorry, bit of a long story here, but I purchased the GS SBGR 309 last year as a way to remember a friend who had passed in 2021. He was an ultra hard core Japanese guy who was incredibly proud of Japanese products (and heritage),and always talked about buying a GS someday. Not knowing anything about the brand (or watches), I listened to him ramble on about the GS quality of movement and the finish. When he passed, I promised his wife I’ll buy one someday as a way to remember him. So, two years after his death and had saved up enough money to buy one, I decided to go with the 309 in 42mm…large, I know. I was not expecting the watch to be this amazing! Good Lord, the mirrored finish of the case, the razor-like hands & indices were like freaking diamonds when light reflected off it! The ink-like finish of the black dial was like the finish on a grand piano. Let me not forget the glorious auto movement under that see through caseback! Everything was absolutely done to perfection! The photos online and RUclips videos I studied prior to the purchase gives Grand Seiko no justice! It’s a completely different watch in person! My friend wasn’t kidding about the quality of GS. Rest in peace my friend❤👏🏼
Sorry you lost your friend, but glad you have something as special as asGS to remember him by,.
I agree totally with the narrator comment that you buy a Rolex to impress someone else but a GS to impress yourself...and the memory of a good friend
@@ChrisJones-ki2bx Brilliant comment 👏
may your friend rest in peace and may you wear your gs in good health!
great story, thanks for sharing
I'm always mesmerized by macro shots of that spring drive sweep. You guys should have an Oscar for pioneering that cinematography.
The second hand sweep powered by Spring Drive is pure sex.
lmfao get an oscar righto
Rolex movements are that good they hide them.
As a Rolex owner, I was DESTROYED by this video.
*_Hardly...._*
Only if you paid attention
I stopped in a Rolex AD to buy the new Air king. I left with my name on a list. Then I stopped in the closet Grand Seiko AD and walk out with a new SBGA415 "Winter" Spring Drive. I had choices between the SBGA 211"Snowflake", the 413 "Shunbun" and the 415. All 3 were in inventory. The Titanium case and the Blue second hand of the 415 won me over.
I wanted a Rolex for my first luxury watch, but they wouldn’t sell me one. I walked into the GS Boutique across the road and walked out with an SBGJ249. I love it. I love the fact that I know it’s superior in almost every way, and no one else does. It’s like a secret no one else is in on. And best of all, it’s beautiful. I catch myself just staring at it. GS for me.
I completely agree with the "secret no one else is on" part. I have the SBGM221 and nobody knows what it's worth, in terms of money but more so in terms of horology and attention to detail. I live in a rather small city in France and I think we might be only 2 people here wearing one in secret. We know each other and we like being in such a small vip group ! The conversations around a GS (for those who can spot one) are far more interesting than small talk over Rolexes. Plus, no one asks you if it's a real one.
Same here....
You have a way better watch now as a Rolly
Keep telling yourself that….
@@swingger9674 jealous?
You buy a Rolex to impress others. I buy a Grand Seiko to impress myself.
100% I smile when I see people with the bought to impress Rolexes, Panerai, etc.
Nice to see this the day i just bought my first grand seiko, the omiwatari.
Congrats
Nice that is one beautiful timepiece
Each time I wear my SBGE257, I spend an inordinate amount of time just LOOKING at it. The perfection of design and execution makes my Datejust look almost primitive. I'm SO glad that I went for my GS. Spring drive? The icing on the cake...
My first big watch was an oyster perpetual. I sold it within 2 months after I discovered GS. Genuinely felt ripped off after seeing what GS does for the same price. I bought an SBGM221 and have bought a cherry blossom and 60th anniversary blue dial dress watch. They’re incomparable and I can only hope we get more brands that execute at the level they do in this price bracket. Something tells me we won’t but, I’d be happy giving them my money for the rest of my life.
The funny thing is that you probably made a profit on the Rolex 😂 just kidding, GS all day.
I own a GS Omiwatari and quarts 37m SBGX261 and love them both. Recently I saw the SBGY009 in person and was blown away. The indices actually scattered the light like a rainbow! I am in the process of trying to save up for a Toge version of the GMT... you really could buy a complete collection of GS and have an awesome variety to choose from... spring drive, quartz, hi-beat, and more... truly a unique company.
Comparing GS's dual impulse escapement to Daniel's co-axial escapement is interesting because they take somewhat parallel approaches but have completely opposite philosophies behind them. In mechanical watch movements there is an intrinsic trade off between beat rate and wear, since higher beat movements need more torque and the parts move more frequently, both of which generate more friction. GS sees this trade off as worth it for the increased short term rate stability the higher beat rate gives you, and designed the dual-impulse escapement to minimize the drawbacks of the high beat rate through increasing energy transfer efficiency to reduce torque requirements. Daniel's did not see this kind of trade off as worth it, and designed the co-axial with the aim of absolutely minimizing wear and used low beat rates to support that goal, extending service intervals and reducing long term rate drift from lubricants in the escapement aging, but at the cost of lower short term rate stability. It's funny how diametrically opposed conclusions about the beat rate vs wear trade off produced such parallel lines of development.
Thanks for sharing this bit of analysis into the engineering tradeoffs behind two great watchmakers and brands
GS has modern material and machinery that Daniel didnt have ;)
Mind blowing. I have one Grand Seiko with an exquisite dial.But the ones you selected are just the finest pieces of art.
With a piece of jewelry, which is a luxury watch, it is not about
the 'best', but it's about which one you like best.
I was at a jeweler last week and there was a display case full of GS: the details are mindblowingly eye watering and were putting IWC and Rolex on the other display cases at a shame!
I must say that the Grand Seiko is an exemplar of perfection that truly captivates my senses. The intricate movements, the artistry of its craftsmanship, and the delicate yet dazzling snow dial that emulates the ethereal beauty of ice and snow are a testament to the expertise of its makers. The impressive 8 day power reserve and the understated elegance of its minimalistic design further enhance its allure. As a connoisseur of fine timepieces, I cannot help but admire the exquisite beauty of the Grand Seiko and appreciate the artistry that went into its creation.
Amazing video as usual
Grand Seiko. I love them. I have two (Shunbun SBGA413 and Godzilla SBGA405- my fav of theirs). I also love the Night Birch and the SBGK005 (possibly their best). And the GMTs (particularly SBGE257) are great.
There’s a but. And a controversial one!
Much as I respect Grand Seiko for their dials and movement.
They are watches best appreciated at 6 inches…and in well taken macro shots like this video.
You can’t fully appreciate the exquisite detail on the dial from 2 foot or more away, unless you bring the watch close. Yes the finishing is good but you need more…
This is where I hope GS focus now. The overall design, feel and bracelet. So it’s less subtle. This is where other brands are beating them (Rolex, Cartier…even Panerai) with iconic designs. AND their bracelet design isn’t there yet, and they don’t taper enough. This is where Rolex beat them. Plainer dials (although amazing natural stone and sunburst options), arguably inferior movements, but much better overall design and beautiful bracelets. This is what you feel from more than 6 inches away.
I’m saying this as a fan of GS….but currently they are mostly watches you fully appreciate in extreme close up. I say mostly, as I think the night birch, Godzilla, and SBGK005 are some of the exceptions that hold up from more than a foot away.
Amazing video. Controversial view.
mmmm….actually, I think I agree with you. Amazing close up. Need to work on the wider design and feel
Fair point
Absofuckinglutely!
Their bracelets are garbage. Fix that and Seiko ascends to God-tier.
Valid, and best comment here.
I own a GS Spring Drive - and it fills my heart with happiness every time I look at it!
Great video! Nobody works harder for your $10k than GS, unbelievable quality for cost. White Birch HB and Shunbun are part of my collection & counting the days until the Omiwatari gets added
9R02 is a hell of movement. Both the design and finishing are insane. 9R31 is indeed a value pick in this case.
There are some fantastic Grand Seiko’s,
watchmaking at its best.
What I really miss in their line-up is a Rolex Explorer and Omega Aqua Terra competitor, small (max. 37 mm), water resistant up to 100/150 meters with a screw-down crown, no=date and rugged.
An icon for decades to come.
The camera work is incredible.
Just bought my first GS, the SBGH295 soko frost. It's simply one of the most marvelous watches I've ever seen.
I LOVE Grand Seiko. I currently have a 4520-8000 from 1969, a SBGE253 (Spring Drive GMT), SBGA229 (Spring Drive diver), and my newest acquisition which arrives tomorrow, the SBGV245 (9F Quartz movement). It’s crazy how under the radar GS still is considering the value proposition with how much watch you get for the money. This isn’t to say I won’t someday buy a Rolex but I think my heart will always be with GS.
Out of all the watches out there, nothing can beat the spring drive. The smooth sweeping hand is just mesmerising. And we haven't even talk about the dials on GS which are the main attraction (for me).
Grand Seiko is the only other watch I'd consider, if I couldn't have my beloved SMP300M..
The GS is pure beauty, and pure technology, combined in an almost perfect package..
A truly great video,,, thank you so much...
Grand Seiko has always made me smile since i heard the history of the brand for the first time. That "let's beat these guys at their own game" approach that you still see in every time piece they produce today. I do love what they do. The finesse and elegance on their watches. I would only wish they would not make so many different ones as you are always in doubt if buying this one as maybe the next one will be amazing... And it will be...
I couldn't agree more. I'd add the humbleness of all this monument of a job. As Japanese, they don't like to brag about fuss. They let the product tell the customers how much care, engineering, craftsmanship, and quality are embedded in it. No sponsorships, no marketing catchphrases, no endorsement on adventure nor blingy life. Their products gently whisper, "This is not the best watch in the world, but it's our best. Hope you'll like it."
Grand Seiko's Quartz movements are astoundingly amazing as well. SBGP017 "Sea of Clouds" is one such example with an exquisite dial and beast of a movement.
9F quartz movements from GS are stunning.
‘Told physics to shut up’ OMG that’s got to be up there with ‘kicked the Swiss square in the balance wheel.
Excellent stuff Andrew. 😂
Really love what Grand Seiko make and it's also amazing value for what you get. Looking to buy one myself currently. I found when comparing them to other brands like Rolex it seems to be the case of you need to spend at least twice as much to get a Rolex that is still not as nice looking as a grand seiko. In fact many Rolex's i can't help find boring to look at or even tacky even if still looking high end.
Rolex are nothing to shout about .
The Seiko escapement is quite similar to the Daniels' co-axial escapement but is more like an older design called the Robin escapement.The Robin escapement is a chronometer style escapement, with impulse to the balance directly from the escape wheel, but controlled by a lever type mechanism, it only impulses in one direction. Seiko have added a second, conventional impulse from the second locking pallet, this prevents the escapement 'setting' and stopping the watch, which was the failure of the Robin escapement in wrist watches.
I can't help but think that Seiko didn't want to be seen licencing the Daniels', so came up with the next best thing.
Comparing with Rolex seems to be a must. Based on my experience Rolex is great, reliable and very precise. No doubt GS has amazing dials and great finishing but the movements? Let’s exclude the spring drive - they are thick - even if not automatic. Hand wound, Automatic and Hi Beat are much less precise as my GMT Master II. Not only on paper but measured. This is where GS can improve. And with the bracelet and with the leather straps too.
White birch Spring drive owner here.
Grand Seiko are in a world of their own. No one can compete with them. The Spring Drive, now with the 120 Hour/5 Day power reserve 9RA2 movement takes them into another stratosphere. Rolex will always have its followers and market. That is getting more limited as time goes on whereas Grand Seiko is gaining more and more followers than ever before. See where GS will be in 5 years time! It will take more of The Lion share mark my words.
I think GS has less revenue than something like Hublot. Marketing and visibility trumps craftsmanship.
@@phoenix5054 he was talking about quality, not a popularity contest. but hublot is huge... they're bigger than most watch brands. They advertise during big soccer games in europe, tens of millions of people watch those games.
The Grand Seiko Constant Force Tourbillion Kodo SLGT003 is my grail watch.
The Grand Seiko with the snowflake dial has to be my ultimate watch. So understated and over the top at the same time, it's really immaculate.
If it were in a 36mm I would of hit that buying button years ago
I own a snowflake SBGA211. It really not that big and the dial is mesmerizing. But that Snowmoon and the GMT at the beginning of the video are both making me considering an upgrade.
@@richplant2205don’t think dial size, but lug to lug.
After lots of hit and Miss attempts to get the ‘one watch’ I’ve finally cracked it with the SBGA467 and couldn’t be happier. Thanks to this channel for giving me the final nudge
The sweep of the spring drive is so divine. Another fantastic video!
Better word is “orgasmic”
My son has acquired several Rolex watches, most recently a Pepsi. Curiously, he often asks to look at my Snowflake. I think he secretly admires the intricate dial and sweeping second hand.
I once fell in love with the dial of the SBGA375 the deepest darkest blue dial I'd ever seen.
I am learning more about this brand with your help and thinking it could be the perfect 1 watch collection.
I do agree. Im blessed to call a grand seiko part of my other than that humble collection. But the Clickbait title IS a bit much
Hey, I watched the complete video but I did not see the destroyed Rolex. Where is it ?
Superior design, better finishing quality, more advanced technology than Rolex. Enough said.😊
*But the popular mystique is so hard to create, and Rolex are the master. Rolex also make a great watch, accurate, durable, reliable and good looking, even if that last quality is subjective.*
The SBGW231 really reminds me of the pure simplicity and elegance of SBGS001
I think GS feels like a value purchase because it rivals the likes of JLC more than Rolex. It has to do with genuine fine watchmaking and exemplary finishing that’s better for dress watches or more elegant everyday pieces. How many people choose GS for a tool watch?
Not a tool watch per se but I wear the living day out of their 9F with the gold star.
Indeed. That is why I have both brands in my collection.
*I see GS as equivalent to PP, AP and VC.*
I wear a GS quartz GMT as my daily grab-and-go watch. It has plenty of scratches, but so what?
At Watch & Wonders 2022, GS unveiled the SLGA015. I called Rolex to cancel the order I placed for the Sea Dweller, and went for the BlackStream (nickname for the SLGA015). Every collector must have gone through “Rolex phase” as a beginner, but these days, a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms took over the slot once occupied by the Submariner, the SLGA015 took over the slot reserved for the Sea Dweller. When collecting for my own pleasure, Rolex starts to feel like the Seiko. Everyone have or wants one, but it is beginning to feel boring. I prefer to have something I like, that is special to look at. This is my collection phase anyway. I am collecting for myself.
Unfortunately most GS's lose value as soon as you leave the store + the availability of GS's makes this video kind of a stretched comparison (also unfortunately because its not a swiss watch it will always be at a disadvantage)
If all you care about is resale value.
Good. Who want’s speculation?
Same as Rolex did for decades.
And soon also Rolex will drop under retail.
Not swiss a disadvantage? Only in the mind of snobs
Much better than Rolex. Would love to see superlumanova on the dials.
Just getting into the watch world, and on surface observation , people who aren't into watches will go for Rolex(s), Royal Oak(s) and Nautilus(es) for the status, and those who are into watches will go for Grand Seiko, Blancpain and Tudor....... well maybe except for Nico, but we all agree on not liking Hublot.
Sums it up nicely, hehe
I'm into watches and I would much rather have a royal oak over a grand Seiko, most would
Youre fooling yourself if you dont think you would want an AP or Rolex
@@jamied931 I would like to, but not really want to. I think one comment put it nicely, Rolex is the rarest watch that everyone has.
@@jamied931 Totally not true. Gift me one and i wouldnt say NO... but i'd sell it to get watches i love ;)
My grail piece was the SLGA009 and I just got it. Worth every penny and I prefer it to my Rolex
Looking forward to getting a Seiko or Grand Seiko dive watch with Spring Drive. Nice video. Keep up the good work.
So here’s a question: how would you compare the level of finishing between Lange, GS Studio, and a general L.U.C. Chopard with a Geneva Seal?
I got a GS Snowflake a couple years ago as my first quality watch and love it. The smoothness of the spring drive is unparalleled, except maybe by their high-beat movement. I also love the face of the SBGK015 Ryosendu, but would like with spring drive or high beat.
SBGR001 owner here. Wouldn't change a thing about it.
Mind-blowing how something so simple can be so complex at the same time.
Well...I have both in my collection. That GS as beautiful it is, it is not a tool or sport watch like my Rolex, so it is comparing apples to pineapples in my case. I love and enjoy both. The finishing in the GS is out of this world. The Rolex is built like a tank. I have never paid above retail for a Rolex or wait more than some weeks for the watch that I wanted, so no reason to complain.
I’d hazard a guess the GS is built to be even more durable on the inside. The quartz regulator is harder to break than a spinning balance wheel. However, yeah in terms of toolish looks, Rolex kills it
I also have both in my collection. GS definitely can be classified as tool/sports, given the well known shock resistance of Seiko/GS, and that everything in their collection except the Elegance Collection has at least 10Bar WR. Not to mention the consistent use of titanium.
One of them I have is an SBGC249, which is a titanium spring drive chronograph/GMT/date with 72PR and 100m WR. If that's not "tool watch" I don't know what is.
@@sylinmino It maybe for you. And that is respectable. I have a sbgj239 which is 200MWR. Do I think it can take the same level of abuse of my Explorer II Polar? Absolutely no. That doesn't mean it can't. The good thing is...I don't need to find out since I have each watch for different reasons and purposes in my collection.
@@hugohernandez3651 fair point but that may also be a model by model discrepancy. The SBGJ239 has that sapphire bezel insert IIRC, which will resist scratches way better than the Explorer II's steel bezel, but will probably take more damage if impacted harshly.
The question is posed, 'which is your favourite' and this is such a difficult one to answer. Mainly because every time I check, GS has brought out another watch that stops me in my tracks and makes my jaw drop. Honestly, truthfully, and there are no other brands that do this as consistently as they do. I've owned lots of different brands. I like to buy, enjoy, then sell and have another experience with another brand. That pretty much stopped once I bought my first GS. I have sold them but only to buy another one. You just don't admire anything as much on your wrist as you do a grand Seiko.
I bought a Omiwatari after having waiting too long à Datejust (which arrives finally after). It's a marvelous dress watch, a mix of technology and poetry like very few of brands can obtain. By many ways, it's a far better choice than a Rolex.
'Grand Seiko on the other hand told physics to shut up!' LOL - this guy has a way with words!
I do like the dials, and the movements seem cool. I just can't get past the fact that from 10 feet away they look like a $200 regular Seiko. I am also concerned about the content of the GS handbook. Lots of warnings about shock, magnetism, and a warranty that is a bit of a joke. Not to mention a service interval that is 3X less than any Rolex. Give me a better case, better bracelet, better clasp, better warranty, longer service intervals, some good lume, and then maybe I'd take another look. Until then, no.
no offense to you but you don't seem to have owned a grand seiko. Everything you said is true for their Seiko 5 lineup.
@@Syedaq2249 pretty obvious @ZCT808 haven’t ever hold GS to tell about those concern
Alright, I am cancelling my order of a paddling pool now I guess.
Because Rolex sells a name, GS sells a watch.
Gotta agree with Andrew, I LOVE some Rolexes, had a few Myself, but they ARE outshined by a few other Makers, Grand Seiko is DEFINITELY one of those, real thought been put into the minute aesthetics, I could spout on for Hours about My love for the Grandest of Seikos to be honest..but i'll save You the time lol.
Grand Seiko thick cases, and bad bracelet design and function kill this brand for most people looking for watches in the price range that Grand Seiko is now wanting to play in.
when you mirror polish the hands, make sure that the underside of the hadns above (second) is not "raw". .... the look of the underside of the seconds hand @4:40 gave me the chills :D why dont they polish that side as well ?
Still saving for my 1st GS. So many beautiful models to choose from, and it's going to be a difficult decision to make when the time comes.
Credor beats Rolex in every aspect. Finishing, movement, accuracy, designs, materials.
Price
I think Credor is a higher tier, though. I imagine it competing against like Vacheron or Patek, in terms of quality. The prices also reflect this.
No, because Credor is comparable to the likes of A. Lange & Söhne, Patek Phillipe, and F.P. Journe
As Grand Seiko is comparable to the likes of Omega, Rolex, and IWC.
I would love to add a spring drive to my collection one day.
oh yes the good old put rolex in the title to game the youtube algorithm. It is getting old and unpleasant really quickly
I’ve been waiting patiently for a Grand Seiko! Time to flip one of my swiss for funds
Gliding second hand and accuracy are very tempting (as long as power reserve is on the rear) but the bracelets need to be better and I just cannot get my head around having what is ultimately a very nice quartz watch, so am sticking to Hi Beat 😍
I'm a mechanical watches enthusiast as you are, and that's the exact reason why I love Springdrive movements. They are the ultimate machines engineered and crafted to become a real small engine producing real power. Power that is used to vibrate a small, in-house, self grown quartz crystal whose only purpose is to regulate the beat rate output of the engine itself...
To me, it's mind-blowing. Aside from the fact that it's the biggest revolution in watchmaking since the introduction of the escapement wheel, to me it shows the extreme skills and stunning capability to think out of the box of the Japanese people. And, of course, their love for punctuality and perfection.
Pardon me this automotive parallelism: "Real muscle cars are American big V8s with a slight tendency to fit you in a tree at the first corner!" Japanese are like: "Well, here's our interpretation of this statement. We humbly submit to your attention our Nissan GT R."
It may not growl as an open exaust american V8, it could be labeled as an expensive driving joypad, it may not have the "heritage" of the 60's, but oh boy what a car! It is more of an experience than a well engineered and built piece of mechanical excellence than the so-called Japanese muscle car.
That's what springdrive somehow is. A mesmerizing seconds hand sweeping without clicks giving the illusion of infinity of time, letting you know the time more precisely than any high-end mechanical watch. And all it asks to run, the only fuel it needs, is the movement of your body.
It isnt battery powered so it isnt quartz. There is a quartz stone but that is only there to help accuracy, its still a mechanical watch.
@@Doflaminguard I am a GS fan, but the Spring Drive is a quartz watch and I think it’s counterproductive to be in denial of that.
@@Doflaminguard it’s not just the quartz either, there is other circuitry.
Quartz watches were called that because it sounded cooler than ‘battery watches’ and the quartz was what gave it accuracy…….. exactly the same as the Spring-drive.
A mechanically powered quartz is exactly what a spring drive is I feel.
@alfieakaronaldog No it's not a straight quartz watch like it's not a fully mechanical watch. It's an hybrid, a category of its own.
As I stated here above, it's a mechanical micro engine producing the electricity to auto regulate itself. No battery operated like a quartz, no escapement wheel regulated. I find it detrimental to label it as "a quartz watch". It's not. It's a Springdrive.
I am a huge fan of the SPGW281. Simply stunning. Thank you.
you say Rolex can't compete, but you still need to use the name Rolex to get views.
I think there are two questions:
1) which watch brand is technically superior?
2) which watch brand is the better investment?
Generally, Rolex as an investment simply out performs GS every time. There really can't be any argument with that in the present market. Whether GS watches become more sought-after in the future remains to be seen. Personally, I would love a GS in my collection, but I'd be unlikely to buy a new one as an investment piece.
No serious watch collector would ever pay many thousands of dollars to have a watch with the name Seiko on it. I know many serious collectors and no one owns one. Seiko should have followed the Toyota marketing plan which is calling a fancy Toyota a Lexus. Given the opportunity, these Grand Seiko sheep would have bought a Submariner or Daytona in a second. Rolex’s lack of availability have made it easier for the pretenders to flourish.
WTF?? And you don’t why people call you a fool? 😅
*I beg to differ. A “serious” collector knows GS bests the Big Crown, despite Rolex’ sales success.*
I think you have to define what you mean by "serious". Same applies in cars. For example there is a certain group of people that seriously drool over a now, no longer manufactured, Subaru. There is another group of people that love to impress people with their underground car collection.
@Tom Jones *A serious collector knows history, design & operation, be them cars, watches, firearms or most mechanical devices.*
@@joeskeptical4762 That is certainly what a collector should know. But what is the difference between that and a "serious" one? I sniff a logical fallacy here.
GS: expensive version of Seiko. Period.
Here we go again. More Rolex bashing from Watchfinder. Even tho you sell more Rolex than any other watch on your site. Guess this is a kind of a advertising strategy to sell other brands..
*Could be.....*
People who think of watches as investments are a plague to the hobby.
*The vast majority of watch buyers aren’t hobbyists.*
@@joeskeptical4762 yea. Lil price inflating b!tches, I coine them.
Same as those who look at then as status symbols.
Very sophisticated choice of words. However, it's still a seiko
WTF?
Congratulations. You sound ignorant
Exactly, it's enough that's a Seiko - a company with a thousand times more history, innovation and horological/technical achievements than Rolex.
P.S. Wake me up when Rolex manages to make something new and exciting.
*Once the world’s LARGEST watch manufacturer and still one of the biggest.* *_Apple is now the unit volume champion._*
"That's such a typical Japanese humble brag.
'Oh this thing? Well yeah you can't really see it, but we only went ahead and reinvented the Swiss lever escapement that has been used for hundreds of years to make it totally better.'" 😅 100% my type of flex.
Rolex doesn't have to compete, their watches are perminantly sold out.
Grand Seiko puts quite a few other watches to shame if you are detail oriented and technically minded.
As of today, I own two of them, an SGBP011 with a 9F quartz movement, and the SBGW231 hand wound you showcased here. My watch collection is more or less done, I have all I want, one of those pieces being a Cartier Santos. But if I ever buy one more watch, it will be a Grand Seiko Spring Drive with a hand-wound caliber, like the recent Asaborake with the 44GS case. Then I'll have three case shapes, three movement technologies and three dial finishes. I hope to get there in the next three years.
SBGA-111 is the only one I own, for now. I love it. It's known for the tatami dial.
I was expecting the 9F quartz movement to be covered as well?
The finish is excellent, although when you see the backside of the seconds hand mirrored in the hour hand, you can see the rough finish on the backside. But this will be invisible 99,99% of the time.
Nice Video!
Bought my 1. GS in 2018 Limited Edition SBGJ227 green Peackock Dial; the Dial is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.
I sold the Watch in 2019; much regretted, just this Week i spotted a used Peackock and bought it right away.
Now the GS is a keeper!
Great Watch at a realistic Price!
I love the idea of the spring drive but I would be hard-pressed to tell the difference in smoothness between a Grand Seiko Spring Drive and a Bulova Precisionist by just looking at it. I've seen the Jet Star Limited Edition and there is no waivering in that second hand that I can see. It's also a lot more attainable at $500 than over $8,000.
I can say however that the GS 20th-Anniversary SBGM235 is one of my top grail watches, not because of the movement, but because of that incredible dial. I've never seen its equal.
The only thing that I have noticed is that the hour and minute hands reflect the underside of the second hand which is not finished
I noticed that as well... in real life, you're never going to notice that on the wrist... 😂😊😊
My Grand Seiko Snowflake & Tentagraph are probably the same... but never noticed
@@JustMeTalking 100%
The slgh013 is on my short list for my first luxury watch along with a 41 datejust with fluted bezel. Come on watchfinder, help me decide.
I wasn’t sure what to make of Grand Seiko until I took the time to find a dealer and see for myself. GS makes Rolex look like something from a particularly inept student who wouldn’t make it past the front door, let alone anywhere near where these world standard setting watches are made. My Diver’s 200m is as awesome today as the day I first tried it on. Also not mentioned here but everything is made in-house. Even the Spron alloy in the mainspring is Seiko. Unmatched.
As much as I love Grand Seiko, They lack soul.
And a character.
I can well uderstand that watch enthusiasts will want such a fantastic masteroiece. I could probably afford one of the Spring Drives, but for me the important thing in a watch is what I have already: A quartz Seiko from 1997. It has a very clean beautiful design with a white dial. It shows the date and day of the week and is accurate to a few seconds a month. Maintenance cost is around 20 € every two years for a new battery. I got it for a reduced price of ca 100 € in 1997.
Absolutely superb photography.
I SHALL own the Omiwatari one day…
Grand Seiko Elegance SBGM221. Definitely.
Good watch, but as the owner of multiple GS this is what they must improve:
1. Stop making so many limited editions. They just too many, and I mean that in number or different editions as well as in number within the edition. Make one special edition a year only and then limit those truly to a reasonable number, no more then 500 pieces. Anymore is not really limited. So one limited edition model a year only and limit that to 500 pieces.
2. Improve dramatically the bracelets. Both ladder and steal or precious metal bracelet are not good. Sure the metal one has zairatsu polishing, but the gaps between the links are too large, the sides show the pins which should not be seen. Basically look at patek Philippe bracelets and emulate that elegance. The bracelet must look less chunky, and more as part of the watch, melting one into the other. With leder belt more attention must be put on thickness and durability. As it is the leder belts look still very cheap and thin, and the lower side touching the hand should not look like the belt of a cheap watch. The clasp should also integrate the lion figure at the lock always.
3. The lion logo is great. Love it. But I love only the golden one. It is given to only certain watches with higher accuracy. Why not start making all with that accuracy and give all that engraved golden lion figure on the balance wheel and get rid of the cheap glue color sticker looking print on the back of the watch on the glass. Also how about just integrating the lion on the dial next to GS letter so like Rolex has its crown, Grand Seiko would have the lion with GS on the face of the crown. And make it always gold, just because. We are talking about luxury item so why not make the small lions figure real good
4. Also if you already make the back of the watch made of glass to see inside, make sure you actually can see all inside. To put glass on the back of the watch but then under the glass cover 90% of movement so all you see is part of wheels is not elegant, regardless to the references of mt fuji and rising sun or city light. Cover 90% of rhe back only if you wish to make the back of the watch the same dial as the front. Else make sure only 10% is covered to hold the watch and it's moving parts while expose 90% in the back, or don't put glass on the back of watch at all and don't expose it.
The Omiwatari is my dream watch, it’s a thing of beauty, I’ll own it one day.