Watches and Wonders 2025: Grand Seiko unveils some beauties
Apr 15, 2025
Grand Seiko drops some beautiful new designs at this year’s Watches and Wonders. David Ho reports
Two Spring Drive U.F.A. models – SLGB001 (US$39,000) and SLGB003 (US$10,900) – were introduced. These Evolution 9 Collection come in compact 37mm cases, and both come powered by the 9RB2 caliber with a 72-hour power reserve, marking them as tiny but mighty models to watch out for.
They redefine the meaning of cool with their textured dials that are inspired by the frost-covered trees of the Kirigamine Highlands. The titanium version has a silver-tinged blue dial with a tempered blue seconds hand, while the platinum version has a deeper blue dial with silver-coloured seconds hand.
The SLGB001 is limited to only 80 pieces and features a platinum case paired with a crocodile strap. On the other hand, the SLGB003 is made from High-Intensity Titanium and includes a bracelet with a micro-adjustment clasp.
Grand Seiko also paid tribute to the 44GS of 1967, which came to be known as the Grand Seiko Style that guides all of the brand’s creations to this day. One of the models that the Japanese watchmaker unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025 is the Elegance Collection SBGW323, a modernized take on the 44GS. The timepiece with a 36.5mm mid-sized case comes in a a purple colour inspired by the kiri, the official flower of Iwate Prefecture.
Finally, the SBGD223 (US$320,000) from Grand Seiko’s Masterpiece Collection is sure to catch everyone’s eye. The limited-edition timepiece is crafted with over 600 diamonds paired with black spinels in a pavé setting.
Encased in a 44.5mm platinum case, it features a dual-curved sapphire crystal and is paired with an elegant crocodile leather strap. It is powered by Grand Seiko’s Spring Drive 9R01 movement, which has an accuracy of ±0.5 seconds per day and a 192-hour power reserve. There are only eight pieces available of this stunning timepiece.
