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Convince Me to Buy a Grand Seiko | Watch Shopping in Tokyo, Japan
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- Опубликовано: 24 янв 2024
- I'm heading to Japan very soon and have a little bit of an issue trying to figure out if I want to buy a watch while I'm there. Today, I am exploring some potential options from Grand Seiko. I am a huge fan of Grand Seiko but never owned one, I know it's weird to say. However, with discount, duty free shopping, and the exchange rates in favor for the dollar, is this finally my chance to own a Grand Seiko of my own?
This will likely be an ongoing series up until the day I'm off to Japan in about a month. If you like this video, be sure to check out my others if you haven't already and if you're returning, welcome back! Until then, catch you all in the next one!
Timestamps:
The Dilemma 00:16
Problem I Have with Grand Seiko 1 - Bracelets 01:04
Problem I Have with Grand Seiko 2 - Too Many Options 01:53
SBGM221 GMT 03:55
SBGM253 Sky Blue GMT 04:14
Discounts on Grand Seiko in Japan as a Tourist 04:38
Buyers Mindset 04:53
44GS 05:44
SBGP003 06:27
Spring Drive 07:55
SBGA471 08:10
SBGY011 08:26
62GS 09:09
SBGA413 Shunbun 09:11
SBGA415 10:13
SBGA211 10:41
Sport Collection 11:00
SBGE257 11:10
SBGN027 11:39
Evolution 9 12:15
SLGA021 Lake Suwa 12:32
SBGE283 12:36
Find me on Social Media!
/ clickybezel
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Timestamps:
The Dilemma 00:16
Problem I Have with Grand Seiko 1 - Bracelets 01:04
Problem I Have with Grand Seiko 2 - Too Many Options 01:53
SBGM221 GMT 03:55
SBGM253 Sky Blue GMT 04:14
Discounts on Grand Seiko in Japan as a Tourist 04:38
Buyers Mindset 04:53
44GS 05:44
SBGP003 06:27
Spring Drive 07:55
SBGA471 08:10
SBGY011 08:26
62GS 09:09
SBGA413 Shunbun 09:11
SBGA415 10:13
SBGA211 10:41
Sport Collection 11:00
SBGE257 11:10
SBGN027 11:39
Evolution 9 12:15
SLGA021 Lake Suwa 12:32
SBGE283 12:36
honestly I love grand seiko quartz movements, I find them to be so elegant
Exactly! Such an underrated movement.
@@ClickyBezel Just bought one. New watch day today!
Congrats! Hope you’re enjoying it so far 🙌
I suffered from the same paralysis. I visited Japan recently but returned empty handed because I couldn't make up my darn mind. Too many choices just led to frustration and despair. Thankfully I purchased a GS SBGF007 quartz in 1995 and still cherish it to this day.
Great choice! Yeah the decision fatigue is very real. I’ll let my emotions guide me. Thanks for sharing!
I went to Tokyo in November 2023 and saw a great selection of Grand Seiko’s at a mall. A decent option was on sale for $1850
I am in Asia and had my heart set on the GS SBGA463 and upon trying it on at the AD it was not what i expected. My heart just sank and yes even though it is titanium the over all feel was not what i imagined it to be at that price point. I am a Seiko fan but had never touched a GS till at that point. It is alot cheaper than in my country but I just could not bring myself to make the purchase.
Honestly, "it's a little complicated" describes how I feel about buying a new watch almost always. I am down to just setting aside a "savings" fund that basically keeps growing until I get to a point where I find a watch I just can't pass.
Love this video about Grand Seiko and loved that you resist to buy one in Japan when the moment was not right. The Kuoe that you bought is timeless! What is the brand of your hat in this video ? Thank you!
Thanks for coming along my journey! The hat is from Ebbets Field Flannels
dude the prices on the innout menu photo you chose are insane 😂
i think of the models you were looking at, sbgm221 is my favorite. that cream color dial is just so good.
only potential drawbacks are 19mm lugs and 30m water resistance
the lake suwa at the end looks super cool too!
personally, i would totally look into a place where you could potentially get a vintage grand seiko or king seiko. those vintage models are such bangers
Dude! I didn't realize the in n out prices gahaha. Wish we still living in those times.
I'm highly considering a vintage 44GS, I just need to find a conditioned one I'm happy with. I'm sure there are a bunch in second hand shops. So excited to take a look haha. Thanks for watching man!
Good picks all around I think . You couldn't go wrong . The SBGP003 would never disappoint me for sure . It's pretty perfect but I'm all over the SBGN027 . Safe travels and happy hunting !
Thanks! Yes, it’s all about the hunt. Thanks for watching!
I agree. The more formal watches are nice, but I would almost never wear them. The SBGN027 or SBGN029 could be daily wearers. And I really like the look. Otherwise, for slightly more dressy look, the SBGM221.
I found a Grand Seiko GMT spring drive at 10% off at Otabashi Camera in Kyoto 18 months ago. With the exchange rate at the time (similar to now) I paid $2200 for a watch that lists at $6200 in the US. Not the greatest bracelet but not horrible either. Great travel watch.
I’m so like you man! Very curious to see what you will end up buying! Hopefully before I go to Tokyo myself lol😂 I’m considering shunbun, omiwatari and skyflake..
grand seiko white birch with latest hi beat movement and lake suwa royal blue dial with five days sping drive movement are the two best grand seiko watches
Great selections. I’d also be tempted by all of the vintage and neo-vintage watches there.
Yes! And not just the GS side. Thanks for watching!
I understand all your points on hesitation. too many beautiful option, bracelet is a bit wide and low taper on many models. That said, I recently picked up the SLGA009 in japan and fell in love. It took a little since I was torn between the high beat auto movement vs spring drive and had some buyers remorse at first but as I wear it more I have grown to love it more and more. I actually find the bracelet to be the most comfortable bracelets I own though I do wish it was 20mm and had a larger taper. I actually have been wearing it on a suede strap for many months now and it makes it more subtle of a watch but the dial stands out so much more. The Ziratsu polish on it is impeccable and what everyone talks about but I wear my watches daily and the case gets scuffed at times. I thought this would bother me but it does not. It isn't the ziratsu on the case that excites me it is the polish on the details and the indices that set it apart.
I totally agree with your picks and strongly suggest picking something up while you are there because it is thousands cheaper than buying in the US. You will not regret it and if you do you can always sell it aftermarket for near retail you picked it up for in Japan.
Nice video overall! The SLGA021 is a good choice, but honestly it's hard to go really wrong with any of the models you looked at.
Perhaps checking out Minase when there to see what they’ve got brewing, or go completely mad and go on the hunt for some older Campanola models lol.
Good luck with the Seiko deep dive vid, it'll be quite the rabbit hole
Cheers mate!
Thanks! I may need some recommendations on some JDM models. I know you're super well-versed in that world!
I consider the cherry blossom one of my grail watches.
However, not to add more options as to fatigue you , but they might be some JDM models that could be good as well, and if you didn’t want to break the bank , Tokyo has a great vintage watch shop scene , and maybe picking up a vintage GS in the 44GS shape might be an option as well, with some having hi beat movements and gold plating.
Yes! I was actually considering some vintage 44GS options. I'm sure in person in shop, they'll look gorgeous.
I just returned from a week in Japan and brought back the Ginza limited edition Grand Seiko that's sold only in the Ginza district. I just love the new dial that represents the Ginza area and it's housed in the 62GS case from the late 60's and works perfectly with their bracelet - love the overall vintage aesthetics. And, it was a nice bonus with the Yen/USD exchange rate at 150/1.
Buy a vintage Seiko while you are there. Circa 1960’s
I’m heading out there in Feb and am tempted by the 61GS series like the 6145-8000
This!
I'm going to be in Japan in about a month and am also considering a Grand Seiko. I already have a SBGR051 purchased in 2012, but I've been interested in a GMT with sapphire bezel for a while. I love Spring Drive but probably will go for a Hi-Beat version since I already have an Ananta Spring Drive GMT.
The bracelet on my GS does leave a bit to be desired, but I'm a strap guy so most of my watches get multiple straps anyway, so if I get the GMT, I will fit it with a strap ASAP. Kind of annoying that the lug width of the GMT is 21mm though. Anyway, it should be a good time checking out some watches in Japan.
There are tons of Japanese LEs with 44/62gs cases SD/HB/Quartz options. If you’re open to buying used I’d recommend going to Nakano Broadway, Shinjuku or even Shibuya’s second hand dealers and I’ll guarantee you’ll find something truly special.
Yes! A lot of enthusiasts have been telling me about the second hand shops. I will have to check it out. Thanks for watching!
Selection is pretty limited. I visited Nakano Broadway and several pre-owned shops in Dec 23 For some reason, not many GS. Also a huge time suck, especially if traveling with family. Hopefully you'll have better luck. @@ClickyBezel
GS movements are good but wait until the time to service them come, the price and time are insane ! Go with quartz or regular automatics
Is it worth buying a Patek Phillipe watch in Tokyo considering the fees, taxes, and US Customs?
I went for an SBGX261 as I like smaller sizes. I enjoy the quartz a lot. It's so hassle free and precise. And it reminds me of childhood.
Anyways enjoy Tokyo. Best city ever.
Great watch and I'm really considering the 9F for your exact reasons! So excited to get lost in Tokyo. Thanks for watching and see you in the next one!
GS are at home on straps. Buy pre-owned.
I have the SBGA375 and absolutely love it. The dial goes from purple to a dark blue depending on the light.
I’m also really interested in the SBGY011 and the SBGY009. The handwind spring drive keeps calling to me. Maybe someday.
You're right! The best solution to their bracelet issue is just putting it on a nice strap. Thanks a lot for watching!
@@ClickyBezel Got a Molequin alligator strap for mine as I don't like bracelets so much as a general rule.
I just came back from Japan. The exchange rate was just too good, and I came away with an SBGA445 (SBGA415). It was an offer too good to refuse. I, too had no idea what I was going to get until I stepped into the Grand Seiko Boutique and the Winter really spoke to me. In person the choices will become clear .... it's just like adopting a puppy.
Holy hell. This is the exact same place I’m at mentally right now. Gonna watch this series as I prep for my December Japan trip.
Well done RUclips algo
Haha glad the algorithm is working! I actually completed my trip so be sure to watch the full video on my channel!
@@ClickyBezel yeah I’ve made my way through. You made some good choices. I’m also eyeing a Kuoe pickup so that was helpful too. Thanks for the content!
@npage1028 appreciate you tagging along for the ride! Kuoe just opened a brand new store and it looks gorgeous. Definitely worth the trip. Good luck on your journey!
You might enjoy the SBGM221 gmt. It is sporty, classy, all in one. I said this watch, at the very start of the video, and it is the best value, and biggest seller!
I was in Japan Dec 2023 and really enjoyed the Seiko museum in Ginza. I tried to book a tour at Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi because I was already visiting onsens in that prefecture but none were available. (Also they offer a studio-exclusive model that I don't think I could resist). Also, Nakano Broadway had full display cases and an incredible breadth of new ( Le Mans Daytona spotted) and vintage watches with gachapon stalls in-between lol! Have fun! The dollar/yen is sooo good.
I’m heading there in Feb and managed to snag a tour at the studio. Can’t wait!
Super exciting! I've heard so many great things about Nakano Broadway so definitely have to hit it up! Thanks for watching :)
I'm also headed out in February. Safe travels!
Is the exchange rate also in favour of the Canadian dollar?
If you don't mind the pre 2017 double logo GS, I would recommend SBGR081 and SBGR083. They are both 44GS modern reissue released in 2014. 40mm on bracelet is just nice. Another recommendation is SBGR059, Titanium at 37mm. Lovely size n easy to wear. Unassuming piece.
Definitely don't mind the double GS logo. I'll have to take a look at them. Thanks for sharing!
As a collector GS is the brand to have if your to have a quartz in your collection.
I have the sje093 on an olive green sailcloth strap from Artem and it’s perfection good video !
I’m pretty sure Seiko used the steel bezel before Rolex released the Explorer ll (see the the Seiko Navigator). So Seiko’s not really taking cues from the Explorer ll - if anything it’s the opposite.
Yup! Buy a watch in Japan! Buy the GS that you feel is right because like you said, the market value is something to totally disregard.
The best way to buy a GS in Japan, is to let the experience make you connect with the right watch. Having you do your homework in this video does help.
I bought two Grand Seiko watches...
GS SBGA211 "Snowflake" Spring Drive
GS SLGC001 "Tentagraph" 5hz Chronograph
Love them both ❤ 🇬🇧
That Tentagraph is a showstopper! Great pick ups!
@ClickyBezel Thanks... When in my watch box collection. The Tentagraph looks like Water, the Snowflake like Ice.
I've got an Omega Speedmaster Moonphase in chocolate brown which looks like Earth, and a G-Shock MTG-B3000FR which looks like Fire.
Funny really when I noticed it... 🤣 😂
I just got a WISE which gives me GS vibes 😊😊😊😊
great video❤❤❤❤❤ GS is a higher tier watch than Rolex
Definitely buy one if not two there. The yen is the lowest it's been in a while and you can find some great JDM models. I bought my Grand Seiko SBGW231 while in Japan last year it was awesome! Also found a Red Seiko Alpinist which is a tough find
Exactly! Well maybe not two GS but maybe multiple JDM Seiko’s I’ve considered. Will save that thought for another video. Thanks for sharing!
from other's peoples personal stories what made them decide on a particular GS was seeing it in person. when they saw it they knew they wanted that one even though they went to the store to see something else entirely. so just go and look at as many GSs as you can in person. you'll probably find one that you know it's yours.
also look for preowned ones so you won't take the hit on the first owner GS tax. plan on visiting second hand stores too.. at the end of the day you can not go wrong with a vintage gs or ks either.
I've spent some time with GS on the wrist and still it's difficult to imagine being an owner of one. I'm definitely going to check out vintage GS, maybe those will speak to me more!
I want a Grand Seiko BUT...
1. it must be quartz
2. it must not have a date window
3. it must have a 3,6,9 dial
4. it must not have any of the fancy polishing
5. it must not have the angular case that Seiko is far too fond of...
Grand Seiko do offer too many choices but the stay away from a 3,6,9 dial for some reason.
A 3 6 9 dial would be really interesting. Grand Seiko needs to listen up a bit more and take some inspo from watch enthusiasts!
You can try out the Grand Seiko SLGW003
SLGA021 is by faaarrr my favourite GS because of the movement, case, material, and of course the dial. I also dig the versatility kiiinda unusual for a GS. Oh and the bracelet looks sharp too.
I agree! I really dig the handset on those and how it integrates well with the indices. Thanks for watchingn
I had the same thought process for a LONG time. I wanted a GS, but it had to be the right one…..for me. In the end, I went with the SBGA293 from the elegance collection. The size was perfect. The parchment dial is very classy and interesting, without being too busy. Kind of like the 221, but not lacquered. Spring drive, printed power reserve. Also, the water resist is 100 (the 221 is 30). Since it’s a lesser known GS I got a really great deal and once it delivered I purchased a custom strap for it. I honestly couldn’t be happier with my choice. I love many others (those dials) but I went with something that I can look at daily without getting bored. Also goes with everything. Anyway, great vid….good luck! 😎👍🏼
PS- here’s a link to the review that finally convinced me: ruclips.net/video/uKjCCdcMrso/видео.htmlsi=EZYv_z7gK6-uPYs0
Thanks for sharing your journey. I’ve considered GS for such a long time but none really speak to me. Maybe making the trip out to its origin may change my mind lol. Glad you enjoyed the video!
My recommendation for you will be the Grand Seiko SLGH013.
I really like the Seiko Antron SSH 133 line.
Btw, Credor released an alpinist version few years ago. May be cheaper to buy it there
Will have to give it a look! Thanks for sharing!
That new Urushi Presage is nice SPB405
I agree about decision fatigue!
It’s even worse in person 😆
which department stores give a discount? i have someone there now
I want a Grand Seiko Snowflake but I don't want to drop $6,200 plus tax on it.
I’ve owned several of them and all were eventually sold. A preowned 9F Quartz is all I would actually recommend.
9F Quartz is definitely underrated and really leaning towards owning one but we’ll see. Thanks for watching!
The limited edition katana with the red dial would be the one to get
thoughts on the SBGA497?
I have the same issue
I want a cool dial but then want something around 38mm
But I want WR as well - not 30m
Damn - they are gorgeous, just Havnt found the me GS yet
It’s crazy how GS have so many options, yet it’s still hard to find the right one to own! The GS dilemma is a real issue lol. Thanks for watching!
Wait so how do you get thode discounts?
I suggest you stop howling with with the wolfs and take a good look at GS bracelets. I don’t believe you ever did because you’d take otherwise.
😂
Make sure to try out the washi dial Citizen Chronomaster while you're there. But more importantly, if you are satisfied with your collection as you say you are, then maybe don't buy a watch, but rather spend some of that money on an extra trip to some other part of Japan. You will have the memory of that for as long as you have your memory, but whatever watch you buy, you will likely end up selling sooner or later. Don't get me wrong, but it sounds like you are trying to buy a Grand Seiko because you want to check a box. And you have 15 thousand watch-loving subscribers to impress with your new Grand Seiko, so be honest to yourself if you're really trying to buy a watch to impress yourself or others, and is it really different from buying a show-off Rolex piece. This may be off topic, but If I understand your budget correctly (you were looking up to around 9k), you can get A LOT of watch for that money, - including high horology - mostly used, but even new from brands like Habring2 (Austria) or the Kudoke Handwerk collection (Germany). I wish you a great time in Japan, whatever you decide getting (or not)!
That Chronomaster is definitely another contender. Never seen one in the metal but hopefully will have the chance to see it while I'm there. It takes a lot for me to purchase a new watch as I always intend on keeping them forever. I've only sold a few watches (some regretfully lol). We will see! Thanks for watching!
The watch you want is the SBGA433. Trust me.
This " feeling you need to "Someting" is called Addiction but I admire your zeal to do research! Do more!
Yes, it's a problem but a good problem to have haha. Thanks for watching!
I guess I have to hold it and feel it before pulling the trigger
Exactly! Thanks for watching!
Grand Seiko is a grail for me. I personally have not experienced a nice bracelet but their bracelet are unremarkable indeed. I think many of us feel the same way as you.
I hope GS is taking notes on the bracelets haha. I'm sure they know! Thanks for watching!
Easy fix with an aftermarket strap imo. I bought a 9f quartz and I really don't like bracelets no matter how nice they are. To me, you don't buy a GS quartz for the bracelet.
Get the Citizen as alternative
I went away from the hype and got the SBGW287 Boshū. Manual wind, 37.3mm case size, burgundy dial, red leather strap. It's then hotness. My take: get an SBGW with a leather strap.
I’ve also considered this before and I’m sure the red is a lot more subtle in person. I showed it to my wife before and was like nooooo lol. Maybe not the Boshū but another variant will work better for my tastes. Thanks for sharing!
@@ClickyBezel oh yeah that burgundy is pretty subtle. But when natural light hits, it goes from deep burgundy to a crimson red and it's stunning. Interesting story: I bought it to commemorate my son being born back on Nov 22, and the watch was released then too. So it's s birth month watch.
Buy it second hand at a rather big discount on retail
Tbh you seem like a really cool guy, great knowledge on watches, but the first 10 minutes of your video is basically a YOU problem.
If GS had limited options, people would complain, if it has alot, people complain.
Just nut up and pick a watch that you've looked at probably 1000 times, your indecisive nature and procrastination has nothing to do with GS lol.
Go for the Credor bro go hard bro
😆😆
Just buy one bro
It will be much easier to choose when you look at the real watch. The pictures are nothing like the real things.
Exactly! Can’t wait to see them in person 🙌
SLGA0##
SBGY0##
Both are the best
Great choices. Hard to choose between the two!
Grand Seiko has the most insane and technical movement in the market…but you’re stuck on the bracelet.
Yes. A bracelet is like tires for your car for me. It isn't the most interesting thing but it really affects the wear quality for me. For me, its either update the bracelet or it's living on a nice strap but we'll see. Thanks for watching!
I would get a spring drive and avoid the mechanical. I had my balance wheel misaligned and sent it under warranty. The watch came back that was running 6-12 seconds plus a day. They said the standard while wearing is +8/-1. For a watch that cost 7k i expect it to be tuned to the original which was running 1-2 sec a day. I will never get a hi beat ever again and probably will start looking at turdor as my next watch
Dude. Go vintage. Vintage GS > modern GS. It sounds like you are compromising with almost every modern GS you are considering. Vintage Seiko/GS is sooooo gooooood.
I’ll have to make another video on pre-owned choices in Japan lol. Thanks for watching!
@@ClickyBezel 🔥
I’ve had this same conversation in my head 20 times also…
But Knot watches offer a real good value and allegedly they get their cases from the same factory as GS. I haven’t seen one in person but the finish is supposed to be comparable.
Never heard of Knot! I might have to check them out. Thanks for stopping by!
🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦🤦
You seem to really love my videos! Hope you enjoy my future ones 😆
This video not coming to a conclusion is pretty terrible for viewers.
It’s a “no” for me, dog…
👎
This video is about nothing at all
It’s a video of my thoughts lol. I did a full video of what I picked up in Japan.
Ok, I'm going to watch that video.
Thanks.
Harsh
Just because exchange rate is favourable doesn’t mean you have to buy a GS. Ugly lugs, unacceptable bracelets, stupid name, polishing that will scratch very fast, etc. F+=/ GS.
You’re right, but I’m experiencing extreme fomo with department discounts and tax refund. We’ll see how it plays out when I’m in Tokyo. Thanks for watching!
I couldn't stand the video beyond 10mins... It seems you don't have the money hence all the nitpicking... Except for bracelet, none of your arguments made sense... I'll give you one valid argument, many GS have tooo wide faces, dial/crystal size is too much in proportion to the case.. .that's pretty much it, movement, dial work, case everything is on point... even price
Thanks for enduring 10 minutes. I encourage you to take the time to watch my full video when I shopped in Japan. Hope you enjoy that one!
Link is here
Shopping Watches in Japan and Where to Find Them
ruclips.net/video/anlqW7pIVF0/видео.html
@@ClickyBezel thnx... It's nice you bought however I felt it was too much whataboutery... anyway as you say I'll watch the whole video! thnx
Don’t waste your hard earned money on that Grand Seiko crap. Come on man!
sbgy011
Great choice!