Not Just Another "Seiko"
Grand Seiko. At first glance, you may think, “Oh it’s just another Seiko. Why is it so expensive?” While it might share some of the same name as Seiko, Grand Seiko is in an entire league of its own. The brand originated in Japan in 1960 but just came to the states in 2010, where it brought with it plenty of watchmaking experience and masterful craftsmanship. “Ok well maybe they have lots of experience, but it is still just a Seiko.” Grand Seiko technically is its own brand, but still under the umbrella of Seiko. The easiest comparison would be Toyota and Lexus. While they are owned by the same company, you would not call a Lexus “Just another Toyota.”
But what makes Grand Seiko so “Grand?” In every single one of their timepieces, they put on a masterclass in finishing, technical ability, and beauty. They created the Spring Drive movement, the most accurate mechanical movement on the market today, one that beats out those from more well known companies such as Rolex and Omega. Each dial is meticulously designed with a rich texture that evokes the natural surroundings of the studios in Japan; The cherry blossoms in spring as seen in the Shunbun SBGA413 model, or the birch trees in winter as seen in the White Birch SLGH005, and even in the ripples that form as the wind washes over the many lakes as seen in the Summer Season’s GMT SBGJ249. As for their finishing, everything is so excruciatingly examined that even the slightest blemish in a hand, marker, case, or bracelet, sends the piece back to the studio to be corrected.
If the piece is not perfect, then it does not leave Grand Seiko.
So while Grand Seiko may be a part of the Seiko family, they are definitely not “Just another Seiko.” If you are interested in checking out some of these beautiful watches in person, stop by and we will be happy to give you the Grand Seiko tour!
Mitchel Thompson —
Great article David! I always look forward to watch tours with you!