With many people looking for a dash of bold contrast in a luxury watch, the all-white dial of the SBGX355 from Grand Seiko offers something more uniform. At first glance, the dial seems like the brightest tone of white you’ve ever seen, accompanied by classic titanium surroundings.

I find this watch to be a great style choice on a sunny or cold winter day. Its overall neutral colorways make it an excellent everyday choice, regardless of the outfit. However, it can’t be denied that the winter white dial is pretty vibrant, which may be off-putting for some watch enthusiasts.

As with any timepiece, personal preference is a part of the equation, but there are many reasons you should give the SBGX355 a second look. Let this review guide your decision-making by highlighting the watch’s best qualities and why it might be a perfect choice for you.

The Origins of the SBGX355

Acting as a more compact and refined version of the SBGA211, this watch is a callback to many aspects with the same design. Of course, this includes some modern choices in engineering. The SBGX355 can be found in Grand Seiko’s Heritage Collection, which speaks for itself if you know anything about the brand. 

Regardless of personal style preferences, the SBGX355 is seen as a new classic for GS, one that would be a lifelong addition to anyone’s wrist. Although the watch itself doesn’t have an extensive history on the market, it looks like it does due to the similarities between its predecessor.

On another note, the SBGX355 was released earlier this year alongside the STGF385. This is a women’s model that not only embodies the GS snowflake tradition but takes it one step further with unique styling additions.

Nevertheless, the announcement of the SBGX355 is a sweet spot for many people. Those who feel like the SBGA211 is too large are more than happy with the smaller size of the SBGX355. It seems like GS decided to address many of the concerns with the SBGA211. Going for a smaller size without compromising on the popularity of the original design was a great move, in my opinion. 

They didn’t need to reinvent the wheel for the SBGA211; they just needed to make it a little more accessible. One important distinction between the two comes down to the size, movement, and cost. In short, the SBGX355 is smaller, comes with a quartz movement, and is substantially more affordable than the SBGA211.

A Case That Boasts Class and Tradition

Built with the reliability of high-intensity titanium, the case is just as sturdy as it’s effortlessly beautiful and light. Durability is an important aspect to me, which can be very misleading with some high-end timepieces. With the Grand Seiko SBGX355, you can feel that quality resting on your wrist without it feeling overbearing. 

Although you’re looking past it most of the time, you shouldn’t ignore the quality of the sapphire crystal. It’s double-curved to be form-fitting and is highly scratch-resistant. For the crown, you get the standard push-pull style Grand Seiko stamp, and the case promises 100m of water resistance.

Regarding its size, the case sits at a 37mm diameter, 4mm less compared to its inspiration, the SBGA211. I’m going to nitpick a little here and mention that the case measures more accurately to 36.9mm. 

This might not be important if you’re a newcomer, but the fine print always matters when it comes to luxury watchmaking. You’ll find a brush finish on top of the lugs, and the bezel features a contrasting Zaratsu finish to help it stand out. 

I’m a huge fan of the bezel’s blended design here. It does a great job of blending in with the rest of the case and the band. For me personally, bezels that are too “loud” tend to take away from the interest in the watch’s dial.

The screw back design of the case gives it a uniform look while featuring the Grand Seiko lion logo. You’ll find the lug-to-lug distance at 44.6mm, and the quartz movement allows the case to land on the slimmer side at 10.6mm. For most people, these dimensions are selling points on their own. It’s small details like this that made me wake up to what the snowflake look has to offer. 

With the SBGA211, I never really gave it a second look because I felt it was too bulky. Thanks to the SBGX355, you can’t really dish out the same size complaints. From my point of view, the only way sizing could be a solid argument with the SBGX355 is due to the bright dial. 

In some cases, a very bright-colored dial can make a watch case seem bigger than it actually is. Aside from this small nuance, the SBGX355 case size looks fantastic on my relatively thinner wrist. While the case and dial are commonly appreciated together, it’s important to grasp they come with their own purpose and characteristics.

A Watch That Dials In the Eyes

The snow-white dial does a great job of speaking for itself, but it’s much more than just a plain white slate. It includes a textured pattern that offers a nice contrast of white hues when light hits it at the right angle. The history of his “snowflake” is inspired by the surrounding natural environment near Grand Seiko’s Shinshu Watch Studio. 

Although the dial carries the term “snowflake,” its textured pattern more so resembles choppy snow sitting below overlapping winds. I’m not going to lie; I’ve never been a huge fan of an all-white look, but the fact it isn’t a flat white makes it so much better. You might find disgruntled opinions about the ticking movement of the dial’s seconds hand, but this is part of what makes it so affordable. 

To segue a bit here, the seconds hand is the only true contrast inside the dial as it tracks time in a gorgeous blue finish. The minute track and indices are bold but don’t conflict with the beauty of the dial. If anything, it enhances its presence with a polished look, which is a great match to the surrounding design of the case and strap.

There’s also an apparent simplicity with the dial, as the indices aren’t numbered, the hands are thin to a point, and the text is minimal overall. You will find a seamless date window at 3 o’clock, but this design doesn’t come with a power reserve indicator. 

For many people, this can be seen to be rather dull, but it acts as a selling point for me, as minimalism is my style. I like watches I can wear on a consistent basis, which means flashy isn’t really my go-to. 

The dial of the SBGX355 is undoubtedly beautiful and bright, but contrasting color tones in the material make the white a bit more balanced. It would be wise not to be distracted by the dial’s color, as the movement plays a part in this, too. Many people stray from quartz movements due to their ticking nature, but others would argue this is something that can be easily overlooked.

The Movement Putting the SBGX355 in Action

Before I get too deep into this section, let me start by saying you shouldn’t judge this watch by its movement. Sure, a stern click might be a bit jarring from a low-quality quartz movement, but that’s not what you’re getting with Grand Seiko. I would go as far as to say that the interval tick of this movement isn’t all that noticeable.

This is primarily due to the precision and ingenuity behind Grand Seiko’s engineering. More specifically, the movement in the SBGX355 is a 9F62 quartz. From the auto-adjust mechanism to mechanical-like torque, a quartz movement from GS offers surprising quality.

You’ll never spend a day worrying about the accuracy of this watch as it boasts a modest ±10 seconds per year. Even if you notice a substantial variance in the speed of movement, this can be adjusted through the regulation switch built into it. I won’t argue that there’s something to be said about the smooth nature of Spring Drive movements, but that isn’t enough to break my interest here.

With enough silence, hearing the slow, muffled tick of the SBGX355 is actually pretty satisfying. Grand Seiko doesn’t cut corners when it comes to the individual components of their watches. The quartz movement in this watch is made in-house, which means it features the same hand-made quality as the rest of the timepiece.

Although the look of the quartz movement doesn’t play much into the external look of the watch, it looks gorgeous nonetheless. If you’ve never seen one, a Grand Seiko quartz movement comes in a beautiful brass color with several jewels for accented color. Grand Seiko builds four different quartz movements in-house, and the 9F62 is a slim caliber with a date display included. 

When digging through other opinions online, you always tend to find those who say the quartz movement is what keeps them from investing in a timepiece. I’d say with confidence that this sentiment isn’t warranted here. The quality of the 9F62 movement is enough to make you overlook any kind of ticking motion.

A Strap That Likes to Impress

Featuring a five-link design, the SBGX355 dons a primarily matte finish on the larger links. For the smaller links, you get a little contrast of Zaratsu polish that gives it a bit of shine. A small downside, from my point of view, is that this watch doesn’t offer micro adjustments for the clasp. I know you don’t find this in every GS watch, but I sure was hoping I would find it in this one. On the flip side, the half-links do allow for some adjustment for a better overall fit. 

Then again, you do get a bold GS logo on the clasp itself, and the band width offers a dense 19mm width. However, as it gets closer to the clasp, the width starts to lean more toward 18mm. I say dense as I feel the watch carries a bold look, but I’d like to highlight that it doesn’t look too large or feel too heavy. 

The strap is the perfect size for the way the case is structured. I know it might seem like a small detail, but Grand Seiko straps never pinch my arm hair, which is annoying enough to make me stop wearing a watch entirely.

Another angle I wanted to cover is the material of the strap, as there seems to be some confusion with some people online. The SBGX355 promises a high-intensity titanium strap, not a stainless steel one. 

For those who prefer a look different from the stock option, keep in mind that the 19mm lug width might make your search a bit difficult. It won’t be impossible to find a different strap, but the sizing limits your options to some degree.

The titanium bracelet offers a blend of lightweight durability, not to mention exquisite style. There’s a general appreciation for durability here, but no one wants to feel like there’s a weight hanging off their wrist. Grand Seiko does an excellent job promising high-end quality while thinking of your comfort in everyday scenarios. 

For me, this watch is a great alternating piece between more of the darker or subdued tones in my personal collection. Breaking down the mechanical details of the watch is merely one perspective. You also need to gain an understanding of what it’s like as a day-to-day wear.

The On-Wrist Lifestyle of the Grand Seiko SBGX355

Alongside the many opinions you can easily find online, rest assured that mine come from nearly a decade of ongoing experience. 

While my approach with my own collection is modest, my viewpoint comes from many angles regarding the SBGX355. It’s true that the look of this watch isn’t my usual go-to, but I can say it’s the only white dial in years that has caught my attention.

The looks of the SBGX355 say a lot, but how it feels is something that begs many more questions. From a distance, the watch does seem like it would feel bulky, but it’s surprisingly lightweight once you close the clasp.

Once again, I’ve leaned into this already, but the tick of the quartz movement is nothing to stress over. If you happen to zero in on the audible tick, it delivers a somewhat deep, buttery-smooth sound that’s satisfying to me.

As with many watches from Grand Seiko, the on-wrist experience exudes functionality with lightweight beauty. In my opinion, this makes the SBGX355 a great daily wear for anyone who likes a bright timepiece. 

It’s okay to admit it; this isn’t a watch you’ll be able to conceal very well, and that’s part of the point. There’s no question that the engineering and physical details matter, but at the end of it all, cost is the deciding factor for many people.

What’s the Cost and Where to Get One?

You can find the Grand Seiko SBGX355 retailing at $3,800, making it a highly affordable entry-level GS watch for interested buyers. This is exciting, to say the very least, as the larger SBGA211 costs almost twice as much at retail.

Whether you’re looking for your first Grand Seiko or simply don’t want to break the bank, the SBGX355 is a great way to go. The watch sizing makes it perfect for wrists at 6 to 7 inches. Its small possible adjustments make it viable for 5-inch wrists or even larger wrists if you’re okay with a tighter fit.

Considering the SBGX355 design is somewhat new, pre-owned pricing won’t look too different, depending on the quality. For the most part, a pre-owned SBGX355 will still run somewhere between $2,000 to $3,000. It’s already quite affordable, but if you want to save even more money, a quality pre-owned one likely won’t look or feel much different. 

On the other end of this spectrum, where you buy your Grand Seiko from matters just as much. For a no-frills approach that comes with years of hands-on industry education, consider taking your attention to Exquisite Timepieces. Aside from the extensive collection, you get the same trusted quality you expect in the luxury watch you’re searching for.

Final Thoughts

Grand Seiko comes with a long line of watches to choose from, both traditional and brand-new. However, if you were to ask me what my favorite would be regarding vibrancy, the SBGX355 would take the cake.

Between the somewhat layered ridges of the white dial and the solid feel of the entire watch, I keep finding things to love about its design. Consider the SBGX355 not only due to its bright visual beauty but also the Grand Seiko engineering, on top of a price that’s hard to beat.

With a quick look, you can easily find a range of diver’s watches from Grand Seiko. It’s easy to get swept into all the beautiful designs, but surface-level information doesn’t do them justice. It’s the details in the engineering that tend to sway my decision because the whole of a Grand Seiko watch should be appreciated inside and out.

The SLGA023 from Grand Seiko has proven to be a winning piece for many enthusiasts over the last year. Launched at Watches & Wonders 2023, the “Ushio” blue dial watch is a bold variation to the black colorway seen in 2022.

Aspects of this design may have been seen before, but many people agree that deep blue makes it a statement piece. To answer all of your questions and pique your interest, this Grand Seiko SLGA023 review has exactly what you’re looking for.

What’s the Backstory?

Released as a follow-up to the 2022 “Black Stream” SLGA015 diver’s watch from GS. The SLGA023 hails from the Evolution 9 Collection, which is known for its unique and relatively niche range of watch designs.

Keep in mind that while the SLGA023 is kind of a new kid on the block, the Evolution 9 collection comes with a legacy. Even if this watch isn’t a perfect choice for you, the collection that it stems from is reputable, to say the least. 

The collection may not strike your interest across the board, but the new addition of the SLGA023 is another outstanding addition of unique vibrance. It’s the combination of historical influence from the collection with a very unique watch face that sells it for me. 

With full respect to the collection as a whole, I still prefer Grand Seiko watches that deliver something that feels special. You get the rich history of Grand Seiko quality, including new takes on the classic diver’s favorite.

Making a Case for Luxury

You don’t have to look too far to find a suitable Grand Seiko, but case size is an important factor for most people. There are some conflicts with this case size for me personally, but I can’t deny the clever approach to its design. 

First and foremost, the case diameter is 43.8mm, which is a bit too big for me. However, they were smart about the overall design, as it looks relatively compact from most angles.

Aside from the sizable case, it can achieve a slimmer look, partially due to the small Spring Drive movement on the inside. From the side, you’re looking at 13.8mm thickness. Once again, a bit too large for my tastes, but I likely only feel this way due to the bulkier design choices on the dial.

Nevertheless, the high-intensity titanium on the case adds to its durability and makes it a lightweight material choice. You also might find it interesting that the case design takes inspiration from the 44GS case from 1967.

Design aspects common to the Evolution 9 collection include bolder crown guards, arched quarters, and Zaratsu-polished and brushed surfaces. With striking colors and contrasting reflections, the watch carries elegance without being considered flashy. 

The SLGA023 case is also 51.5mm lug to lug, comes with beveled sapphire crystal, and a sturdy screw case back. More notably, I was personally excited by the ceramic bezel insert, a small detail not commonly found in previous collections. 

You’ll also appreciate the small detail of a luminous pip and the matching titanium look. Keep in mind that the bezel insert as a whole isn’t illuminated, which is a slight miss from my perspective. Now, speaking for myself, I’m no diver, but this watch does come with the functionality you’d expect in a GS diver.

200m water resistance is ideal for those who are serious about the deep blue, and you can only imagine how it would match beautifully with the surroundings. After a little research, it’s clear that many people aren’t fans of the larger case design, but I think GS makes up for that through the smart engineering surrounding it.

A Face You Won’t Forget

Even amongst its pros and cons, the SLGA023 features a dial that everyone can fall in love with. This is the catalyst to the draw that people see in the watch, regardless of its larger case size or bolder look.

Looking at the dial from a distance isn’t enough, and I advise anyone to take a close look at a well-lit angle. Its rippled blue design makes it look like you have a slice of the ocean on your wrist. 

This is really what helps me overlook any details about the watch that may not be my favorite. I can’t get over the accuracy of the ocean-like dial, and it’s the perfect tone of blue, not too bright and not so dark you can’t see it.

Focusing on more specific details, the power reserve indicator sits at 9 o’clock and an easy-to-read date window at 3 o’clock. The contrasting tones of these areas make them pop against the deep blue background, which adds to their legibility and symmetry with the design.

One aspect that many see as a downside is the rather large indices and hands. Some feel this blocks out some of the beauty of the dial, while others simply don’t like the bulkier look. 

I’d say this is what makes it so unique from other options in the Evolution 9 collection. The same goes for the minute track; I’m a huge fan of the circular design that’s included.

I understand the modern preference for a sleeker look, but the design choice here matches the bold nature of the rest of the watch. You can rely on LumiBrite for low-light conditions, and this also extends to the bezel for a more full-fledged viewing. 

Just like anyone else, I easily get lost in the surface visual beauty of luxury timepieces. The reality is that the internal components are the glue that seals the deal for me when making a buying decision. You should always consider the watch’s beauty, but understanding what’s happening on the inside will take your perceived value of this watch to new heights.

The Movement of the SLGA023

As can be expected by Grand Seiko quality, this watch is crafted with an in-house movement. More specifically, a reliable Spring Drive Caliber 9RA5. What most people love about this movement is the ingenuity of mixing quartz and mechanical engineering.

You can’t overlook the accuracy here either, as it promises ±10 seconds monthly and ±0.5 seconds daily. In short, you won’t ever have an issue with timing precision. The beauty of this watch extends past the surface, as the Caliber 9RA5 is crafted with 38 jewels itself.

Although I’m a huge fan of the luxury watch space, I tend to keep a pretty niche selection. It’s common for me to wear the same watch for long periods of time, so it’s important they’re consistent. 

It’s part of what I stick around for in GS watches is the in-house movements. With this level of precision, balance, and consistency, the hands look like they can carve butter with how smooth the movements are.

This movement guarantees a 120-hour power reserve and is built for vibration dampening, a nice addition that active divers will appreciate. Another notable aspect of the Spring Drive movement that I prefer over others is the automation. The movement winds with support from wrist motion, making it an easy choice no matter where you’re going.

For those who are new to watchmaking, the importance of a reliable movement can’t be understated. Regarding the SLGA023, the Spring Drive movement is the powerhouse of the watch. 

It supports the seconds, minutes, and hours, as well as the power reserve indicator and date display. That’s what makes the engineering and reliability of Grand Seiko in-house movements so valuable for a lifetime.

How Does the Strap Hold Up?

With the support of a lock and push button 3-fold clasp and case-matching design, the strap is equally stunning to neighboring features. Even better, there’s a built-in, durable strap adjuster to make the watch more fitting for a diving suit.

Similarly to the surrounding material, the strap is also crafted with high-intensity titanium, providing a bold look yet lightweight feel. While there’s a time and place for obvious contrasting finishes, I’m really appreciative they stuck with a majority brushed look. It shines enough on its own, and I honestly feel taking an overly polished route would distract too much from the dial.

Although you can find comments downplaying the sizeable case, I feel Grand Seiko compensated for this in other areas. For example, the 23mm lug width offers a nice taper to add to a better-looking fit. While this might make it more challenging to source other compatible straps, at least the drilled lugs still help to make the switch pretty easy.

As many other GS wearers would agree, I’m a fan of the push-pin adjustments without having to mess with any screws. These small details in design efficiency and thinking about the end user will always have me coming back to new Grand Seiko releases.

Now, I won’t argue that wrist size is important to some degree for any watch; this one offers enough flexibility for most people. Even for those who feel leather straps are superior, I’d advise giving this watch a spin for yourself, and you’ll realize how snug it actually feels.

No pinching of the wrist and a lightweight design ensure comfortable all-day wear. Some others are bound to disagree due to individual preferences, but they definitely thought about comfort when it comes to the strap. 

Not to mention, it seamlessly blends into the case, all of which wraps around the wrist uniformly for an even feel to weight distribution. This leads me to the next section, as the daily experience matters just as much as the beauty of the watch itself.

The Satisfying On-Wrist Experience

If you were to look at my collection, you’d see that the SLGA023 stands out among the rest. Not only because of its beautiful blue dial but also because of its size. I generally go for a much sleeker look with my watches. While the SLGA023 does what it can to look more form-fitting, the case size simply can’t be ignored.

It’s definitely more of a statement piece for me. I don’t dive, so I can’t relate to that, but I love wearing this with darker outfits, as the blue blends in, and the titanium acts as a nice contrast. The watch is known to be more form-fitting on 7.5” wrists but can easily look and feel great on smaller wrists around 6.5”.

You’ll never hear a complaint from me regarding the in-house Spring Drive movements from Grand Seiko. I don’t have anything against quartz per se, and I honestly like a nice tick, but the stealthlike approach to Spring Drive is a stellar sight.

I can see why someone may not be privy to the included strap, but it fits the bill for my needs. Leather straps tend to be my preference on cooler days, but I have nothing against a nice titanium-brushed look here and there.

While I don’t have experience with the black counterpart to this watch, it’s the blue wave dial that made me take a closer look. There are many aspects of the watch design as a whole that make it easy to overlook anything that could be deemed unfavorable. As always, the look and feel of a watch is crucial, but so is the price tag.

Grand Seiko SLGA023 Pricing and Availability

You can find the Grand Seiko SLGA023 retailing at $11,600. This might be on the higher end for entry-level buyers, but that’s what the pre-owned market can help with. However, the price range for this pre-owned watch can vary a bit based on many quality details.

Right now, you should be able to find this watch pre-owned for anywhere between $6,000 to $10,000. Considering it’s still relatively new to the market, this is bound to change as time goes on. 

Nevertheless, the watch isn’t hard to come by, but buyers should always consider where they look as well. You want to work with someone who understands not only watchmaking but also the ins and outs of Grand Seikos specifically. 

Exquisite Timepieces has your back from every angle, and we carry a quality promise behind our Grand Seiko SLGA023 and every other watch in our collection.

Let’s Wrap Up This Review

Almost anyone interested in luxury watchmaking knows and appreciates the Grand Seiko name. Even if they don’t own one for themselves, they’ve likely considered it. I keep coming back to the brand for many obvious reasons, but the fair cost, on top of unparalleled design choices, never misses the mark.

With the SLGA023 divers watch, you can’t go wrong, and you would be hard-pressed to find such an elegant ocean-like dial with micro artistic detail. Although you might feel like this GS watch is on the higher end cost-wise, remember that it’s a lifelong investment that won’t disappoint for generations.

Among the many collections and unique styles Grand Seiko is known for, the SBGY009 is a universal choice for watch enthusiasts. More notably, this is a limited edition watch with only 1,500 worldwide, all with their own serial number.

As any watch lover might expect, you’ll find numerous details about the SBGY009 that will stand out. My aim is to cover the necessities on top of the fine print you might have missed without an on-wrist experience.

Blending the traditional approach of dark and white material tones really helps the watch pop on any occasion. For the dedicated professional to everyday outings, this comprehensive Grand Seiko SBGY009 review has the details that matter most.

A Backstory on the SBGY009

Existing as a commemoration of the original Grand Seiko 44GS from 1967, the SBGY009 is a limited edition timepiece. The brand isn’t new to limited edition designs, but this isn’t one you’ll be able to grab just anywhere. This particular design is celebrating the 55th anniversary of the original and is hailed as a descendant of what coined the term “Grand Seiko Style.”

You’ll find that many aspects of the design’s history are found in this watch, but you’ll see many design angles that make it a one-of-a-kind. Although the watch was released in Q3 of 2022, it’s still a topic of discussion throughout the industry.

While the standalone elements of this watch offer a fresh look, the core of this watch’s design has decades of history. It’s found in Grand Seiko’s Heritage Collection and easily finds its own identity among similar watch varieties.

In a similar fashion to many other Grand Seiko watches, the SBGY009 takes inspiration from natural and cultural elements. The dial itself finds inspiration from “Tsuki Tenshin,” which refers to a full moon sitting at its peak. Whereas the sunray pattern refers to the moon’s shine, and the overall bold color of the watch represents the night sky.

Aside from how this watch looks on the surface, breaking into how it’s manufactured offers more wonder than anything else. Even if the watch isn’t perfect for everyone, it’s more than suitable for most due to the level of thought that went into its engineering. There’s no argument that the watch looks great, but I love the inner workings and the mechanical symphony they play.

The Case That Boasts Grand Seiko Heritage

Hailing a compact design with a particularly thin look, the case is suitable for a wide range of individuals. From small to large wrists, it looks form-fitting enough for most wearers, with the help of some minor adjustments if needed. At a glance, the case is 40mm in diameter, boasting a thin side profile of 10.5mm.

It follows the traditional style of the Heritage Collection, and it’s loved for its sharp geometric overall look. As we all know, materials matter too, which you won’t have to worry about thanks to the reliability and style of stainless steel.

Other notable features of the SBGY009 case include Zaratsu polishing across the surface for a mirror-esque look, as well as several brushed accents. The thin case is made possible due to the thin engineering of the Spring Drive caliber 9R31 movement. 

It’s also accompanied by box-domed sapphire crystal for pristine viewing quality and durability. For another focal point, the lug-to-lug distance is 46.2mm, which is a complimentary choice for the slim features of the watch.

Although the surface provides a mirror-like finish, the inside of the surface is anti-reflective to improve legibility in any lighting. Flip the watch upside down, and you have a whole other feat of engineering to marvel at.

The caseback is a sapphire exhibition, which means you get the treat of viewing the mechanical beauty of spring-driven watches. In addition to the serial number, you can find “Limited Edition” engraved on the back of the case as well. 

You won’t find a multifunctional bezel for this watch, but it does blend seamlessly with the rest of the design. From every angle, the bezel remains uniform to the whole look of the SBGY009, adding to the professional sentiment it carries. For the crown, Grand Seiko keeps it smooth and simple. The rotations are seamless, near silent, and create a fixation for buttery mechanics in most wearers.

A Face You Won’t Forget

The deep navy blue color of the watch dial is so dense it almost looks jet black. Of course, lighting can change perception, but the dial is undeniably bold and equally minimal. Taking inspiration from the night sky above the Shinshu mountains, it’s contrasted by a finite sunray pattern.

Not only does this pattern offer a great minimalist sheen in the perfect light, but the precision in design is beautiful enough on its own. Every aspect of the dial design is intentional, from reflecting nature’s best to making the watch sparkle through clever geometry.

As you watch time pass, the standalone gold of the seconds hand takes the lead. It’s also joined by the gold Grand Seiko logo for a couple of tame yet vibrant accents. There is also plenty to be said about the sharp and precise look of the minute and hour hands. 

They match the stainless steel of the rest of the watch while offering a direct and gorgeous contrast to the gold. In the same vein, this small change in colorway between the hands makes it easy to read and discern from each other. 

The minute track takes a traditional approach and makes an eye-popping statement in contrast to the deep blue background. It’s very easy to read, even in low light, and it does a great job of complimenting the rest of the dial without simply distracting. From my standpoint, simplicity is always better, and Grand Seiko knows how to make luxury stand out without doing too much externally.

What Makes the Grand Seiko SBGY009 Tick

A fan favorite for many, including myself, the Grand Seiko SBGY009 features a Spring Drive caliber 9R31 movement. Manufactured in-house, every movement is hand-wound and is widely known for its efficient engineering and flawless execution.

You won’t find a date window included, but this is likely a smart choice as it would take away from the bold look of the dial. To help keep a uniform and symmetrical design, the power reserve indicator can be found on the movement itself.

Here are a few other key features of this movement that shouldn’t be overlooked:

There are several key features of this movement that shouldn’t be overlooked. A few highlights include its 72-hour power reserve and accuracy with a ±1 second per day and ±15 per month. 

The watch is perfect for those who appreciate a slim fit, not to mention the movement boasts 30 jewels as well. More notably, the movement is found in other Grand Seiko designs, but this is the first time it’s found in a 44GS case.

It’s always finer details like this that make one watch stand out from others. Aside from the historical relevance of this watch, there are several design aspects that aren’t found in any other Grand Seiko watch.

The thin, silent, and reliable functionality of Spring Drive movements from Grand Seiko is a big part of what makes the SBGY009 possible. It’s no secret why the case and dial are major focal points of any watch, but how it feels is just as important. Everyone wants the case to feel like a solid fit, but some of this comes down to the quality of the strap as well.

Classic Choices for Wristwear

With a quick look, there are several angles of this watch that exude traditional qualities from Grand Seiko, as well as watchmaking in general. The watch strap is a standing example of subtle yet pristine quality going hand in hand.

It matches the dark blue tone of the dial and is made from strong crocodile leather. You’ll find the strap comes with a nice shine to it, in addition to a soft leather calfskin feel on the inside. With the minor accent of a matching stainless steel clasp, the watch looks even bolder than it would on its own.

Even better, the clasp is a push-button release, so you’ll never end up struggling to put it on or take it off. Once again, Grand Seiko pays attention to the tiny details to effectively mix style and easy functionality. The band width sits at 19mm, making it more than suitable for several adjustments and wrist sizes.

Smaller details include minor padding near the lugs and faint navy blue stitching to blend in with the strap. Many agree it can be harder to find additional straps that will fit. Then again, the factory strap included is a perfect match for the anniversary design of this watch. 

Personal preferences are one thing, but tampering with a limited edition like this should come with a second thought. While design specifications can surely paint a vivid picture, actually wearing the watch is an entirely different take.

What it’s Like to Wear the Grand Seiko SBGY009

First and foremost, this watch would be a go-to choice for any professional setting I find myself in. In the same vein, it’s subtle and neutral enough to mix well with many kinds of casual outfits. Any Grand Seiko can be seen as a statement piece, especially if worn correctly.

While the 46.2mm may seem to be a bit large, it’s actually a perfect balance with the watch’s other features. Easily readable and exuding impressive feats in slim engineering, it’s great for all-day wear without feeling overly light.

It has a dense yet comfortable and well-manufactured feel to it, and the crocodile leather isn’t bothersome in the slightest. Aside from comfort alone, crocodile leather isn’t too resilient, making for an easy wear that won’t feel too stiff.

I have several other personal notes I’d like to point out. The angular construction adds to the slim look and benefits the form-fitting feel, in my opinion. It’s subtle at a glance but surprisingly colorful and vibrant, with the perfect ray of light. 

Even more so, reading time is a smooth experience that features a seemingly endless and seamless glide. A small detail but noticeable nonetheless, the size-to-weight ratio is the perfect balance for my preferences.

The motion of the watch makes for a satisfyingly smooth experience. It won’t tick so loud that it draws attention, and it does a great job of catching the eye for a nice surprise throughout the day. 

I feel that luxury watches that accomplish the most with a minimal approach are at the top of watchmaking. Grand Seiko has done this on more than one occasion. Once you take in the mechanical details of the SBGY009, it starts to make sense what makes the limited edition such a unique grab.

Considering the thickness of the watch is only 10.9mm, it stands as a stellar choice for anyone who appreciates a thin timepiece. You might associate thin and lightweight with cheap, but Grand Seiko engineering is anything but. 

Regardless of your time with luxury watches, it’s always important to know where to look for them. Taking into account that there are only 1,500 SBGY009s in existence, it might not always be the easiest find.

Cost and Availability

For those looking for a brand new Grand Seiko SBGY009 at retail price, the most common price point is $8,100. This is highly affordable, considering the brand, engineering, and overall style of the timepiece. Even though material items can lower in value over time, the limited edition nature of this watch will keep it going strong for years.

Nevertheless, preowned is a large part of the luxury watch industry, and the SBGY009 goes for a little over $5,000 in this realm. This can definitely vary depending on multiple circumstances, but it’s the common general figure for pre-owned at this time.

However, price is just one objective matter, whereas details surrounding availability are just as crucial. Regardless of the luxury watch in question, you want to work with a retailer who understands the industry. This ensures you get the best quality, price, and customer service all in one. 

Not to mention the importance of authenticity, especially in an industry such as this. If you’re interested in grabbing the SBGY009 for yourself, Exquisite Timepieces is the only retailer you need. Between years of industry experience and extensive hands-on knowledge, Exquisite Timepieces guarantees you get what you’re looking for.

Final Thoughts

The Grand Seiko name is known all over the world. Even if you’re privy to the name, you might be surprised by the sheer size of their collections. Due to this, you might miss a few releases here or there, and the limited edition SBGY009 is one you should know about.

Maybe you’ve known about the design, or this is your first time hearing about it; the details should make you consider adding it to your collection. There’s always another watch out there, but there will likely never be another Grand Seiko limited edition SBGY009.

Grand Seiko SBGX347

If you’re a fan of simplistic designs that don’t skimp on quality, then the SBGX347 from Grand Seiko’s Elegance Collection might be for you. With plenty to choose from, this watch has generated so much attention for more than one reason. The precise movement is a big selling point for quartz lovers, on top of a professional look with rich engineering.

For myself, the SBGX347 is a go-to watch for any professional setting. The look of the watch is subtle, but when it comes to the fine details, Grand Seiko shines through every single time. Every aspect of this watch is built for a slim fit, and its design is neutral enough for many casual styles as well.

Grand Seiko manufactures every one of their watches with a purpose. The SBGX347 is a great example of Japanese minimalism, quality, and simplistic beauty. This review of the SBGX347 will break into the components of the watch and its styling to help point you in the right direction.

Roots of the Grand Seiko SBGX347

Hailing from the world-renowned Grand Seiko Elegance Collection, the SBGX347, also referred to as “Gekka,” was unveiled in Q4 of 2021. Gekka refers to the vibrancy of moonlight and the deep hue of the night sky. Even several years later, the watch is easily a personal favorite over many newer GS releases.

While this watch was revealed alongside the SBGX349, that’s a conversation for another time. For the most part, the Elegance Collection focuses on simple to more grandiose designs. The SBGX347 sits on the more neutral side, which is always a perfect choice from my standpoint. I have nothing against a luxury look, but I don’t want it to look like a mirror on my wrist.

It’s important to note that this design does stem from the SBGX341 but promises to deliver something unique among the rest. Grand Seiko has taken inspiration and crossed design features before, but they always find a way to give each timepiece its own personality.

Overall, the Grand Seiko SBGX347 is as classic as it gets. From the design choices to how it feels on your wrist, you’ll know you’re wearing quality. The crown, movement choice, and slim look of the watch give it a universal play in professional and casual wear. Although many watches look stellar with a surface-level view, the real quality can be seen in the inner workings.

The Case of the Watchface

More than anything, the design of the SBGX347 case promotes a classic look that’s timeless, to say the least. I find neutral and elegant to be one of the best looks on anyone, which is partly what makes this watch so versatile.

The 34mm case diameter is a well-fit size for most people, and its 10.7mm depth adds to the overall slim look from every angle. You won’t ever get tired of the Grand Seiko stainless steel polish, which delivers a sleek and eye-catching experience.

A few other important specifications include a 41.5mm lug-to-lug, a narrow, low-set bezel, and an anti-reflective coating inside the sapphire. The watch may be water resistant, but it’s definitely not suitable for any kind of deep water.

Although this may not be a Grand Seiko sports watch, it acts as an elegant styling addition for men and women alike. The watch also features a standard push-down crown that’s anchored at the three-hour mark on the dial.

Once again, it’s important to remember the intentionally simple design of this watch. It isn’t meant to be extremely flashy, with tons of intricacies blended into it. I find it more than suitable for everyday wear, and the design of the Grand Seiko name always lands a positive reaction from those who notice.

There are other unique details about this watch design you might find interesting. A leading example is that the case pays homage to the original 1960 Grand Seiko 3180. The sapphire crystal use is quite thick and does well to emulate plexiglass crystals made popular in the 1960s. 

Although the caseback is relatively standard, it still boasts the traditional Grand Seiko logo. When I look at the case, I truly get lost in the engineering that makes the dial so simultaneously functional and beautiful.

Dial It In and Enjoy the Show

Crafted through inspiration derived from bright moonlight, the SBGX347 offers a vibrant face that pops against the darker band. Numberless hour markers circle the dial with uniformity, only adding to the fine precision of each passing second of the sharp hands.

Looking at the dial and every intricate detail, you’ll notice a uniformity among the simplistic approach to the design. Every aspect falls into place and compliments the engineering surrounding it.

Although it looks relatively plain from a distance, the SBGX347 actually has a fine texture up close. When moving the watch in direct or indirect light, the alternating satin and polished surfaces make themselves known. As with any Grand Seiko watch, it’s this small attention to detail that leads to so much praise for the brand.

From the logo to indices and every hand on the dial, it all comes together for a light and simple look. The watch face may be a bit too bright for certain styles, but it can also act as the perfect contrasting accessory if you want to make a statement. Regardless of the simple approach to its overall design, the depth found in the finer details is what really paints the big picture.

By no means is this next feature jarring, but you can also find a very faint text of “Made in Japan” just below the six-hour marker. In short, the dial does a great job of showcasing elegance without having to do much to achieve such a look. Of course, part of the beauty that ties into the dial can be found in the efficacy of the watch movement.

Marching to the Beat of Quartz Movements

There may be strong opinions about quartz movements, but Grand Seiko’s quality doesn’t diminish in the slightest. For a little more detail, it’s a caliber 9F61 quartz movement, delivering an accuracy of ±10 per year. It’s understandable why someone might go for a much quieter watch, but I personally love to be able to hear time tick with this movement.

Even though you can find valid concerns about the potential inconsistencies with quartz movements, Grand Seiko provides a solution. Thanks to a backlash auto-adjust mechanism, the quartz movement can guarantee a smooth motion soft tick.

From a style point of view, I’m pretty happy Grand Seiko decided to leave the date window out on this one. I feel like it would be completely jarring to the overall minimalist tone of the rest of the watch. Nevertheless, the movement included in the SBGX347 should be seen as any other quartz design.

There are several smaller points that should be highlighted, such as the double pulse motor system. Providing ample support to move the sizable watch hands, it is still able to maintain energy efficiency. 

You may not be able to see it through the case back, but the movement features several purple jewel accents. More impressively, the movement uses aged quartz crystal with an IC. This enables it to adjust to temperature changes to maintain accuracy and consistent motion no matter where you go.

Speaking for myself, I have never been too picky about movements, although I do have respect for high-quality engineering. Considering the nuanced detail that goes into an entry-level luxury watch, the SBGX347 is nothing to overlook. 

No need to worry about design quality, of course, as this watch is built with an in-house movement. That ensures the Grand Seiko quality inside and out, which makes the watch feel even better considering its notably low price.

From the satisfying slight tick, bright dial, classic look of the case, and steel inner markings, it has quickly become a vital part of my wristwatch rotation. The movement of this watch isn’t your standard quartz, and this can be determined by the look and feel of its movement and consistent accuracy.

Any good timepiece delivers an ensemble of an experience. From a distance, the Grand Seiko SBGX347 strap may not look like much, but it happens to be much more impressive up close. The watch wouldn’t look or feel as good if the strap wasn’t comfortable and form-fitting for most wearers.

The Wrap Around the Wrist

Not to be confused with the blue strap on the SBGX349, the SBGX347 features real black crocodile leather. A key distinction here is that it isn’t stamped just for show, which means it feels extremely durable to the touch. 

I love glancing at the GS logo on the buckle, and the slight shine is a fantastic contrast to the dark leather hue. On top of that, the high quality of the crocodile leather ensures a soft look without any kind of distracting sheen.

The band as a whole is 175mm, making it more than adjustable for wrist sizes that are small or large. My favorite detail is the 2.5mm thickness. I’m a huge fan of thinner bands as my wrist is already on the small side, and the SBGX347 looks snug and form-fitting. This tends to be a challenge for me personally, but it’s a testament to the versatility of the strap dimensions.

Keep in mind that it’s the calfskin that truly makes this an all-day wear, as it won’t conflict with your wrist or feel too stiff at varying angles. Considering my relatively thin wrists, that means I’m also not a huge fan of very wide bands. 

This might look fine on larger wrists, but the 18mm band width on the SBGX347 doesn’t try to compete with the other components. I think that’s what makes this such casual wear for me: the watch’s dimensions look uniform from every angle. 

While it’s evident several design details play into this, the size, positioning, and quality of the strap are equally important. I can break down this watch piece by piece, but it can be helpful to look at it from a style and live-in experience as well. 

At the end of the day, I’m a fan of how the strap looks and feels, but that doesn’t mean you can’t always change it. The drilled lugs in this watch make for an easy swap if you prefer a different strap.

What You Can Expect Wearing the SBGX347

I would say that this is one of the best mid-range neutral watches from Grand Seiko. The black leather is a clear choice for any business setting, but the classic black and white is fitting for more casual fits, too. 

However, I feel it’s important to mention that I am more inclined toward dark brown bands and wouldn’t mind switching them every now and then. The contrast of shiny steel, a bright white dial, and a deep brown color is a match for me.

Aside from the strap and case size, weight is another big deciding factor for many. If it feels like it’s pulling my wrist down in the slightest, it’ll more than likely be a no-go. When you combine the 47g weight of the watch and the comfort of the inner band calfskin leather, you’ll almost forget it’s on your wrist. 

Another minor detail I’ve noticed about this watch over time is the consistent durability of the band. It doesn’t feel like it’s losing its form-fitting feel and look, something I really appreciate about the quality of the leather.

Moreover, the grain finish of the white dial helps minimize unwanted reflections and makes for a more muted white dial. We feel this is an excellent choice with such a bright color that could potentially be too jarring. On top of that, the white grain finish allows the stainless steel accents to break through in visible glory. 

I feel like I’m a bit biased due to my smaller wrist size, but it should be mentioned that wrists 6.5 inches or more might not be as comfortable. Then again, those who are more prone to wear a snug fit might be just fine within the 6”-7” range in wrist size. Now that you’re equipped with a manufacturer and user perspective, it’s time to praise the watch’s affordability.

No Need to Break the Bank

Many people love the idea of owning a luxury watch, but this is commonly associated with a high price tag. That’s definitely a true reality, but that isn’t the case with every high-end watch on the market. 

I easily fall into this category, as I cherish affordability like anyone else, but that can be challenging to find alongside quality. The bullet list below offers a quick look at retail and general pre-owned pricing you can expect for the GS SBGX347. You can find the watch for $3,300 at retail, but it drops down to the $2,200 to $2,500 range for pre-owned.

On another note, where you find your luxury timepiece is another consideration. Not only is industry experience important, but you want to work with someone who understands watchmaking inside and out. We select every watch in our catalog at Exquisite Timepieces with intention, ensuring our customers are educated on the ins and outs along the way.

Let’s Wrap Up

For veteran enthusiasts and newcomers alike, choosing your next favorite luxury watch can be a mind-wracking experience. I’m all too fond of this feeling, but this review can act as your guide when you put all the pieces together.

The details always matter, and the Grand Seiko SBGX347 makes you look twice from every angle. You’ll likely miss its true beauty at a glance, only seconding the clever yet classic design of the GS Elegance Collection watch. After reviewing the design specs and considering the cost, I believe this is a viable choice for many.