Watches and Wonders 2023 | NEW Grand Seiko Watches
Grand Seiko have just revealed not one, but two new watch launches at Watches and Wonders 2023 and we're obsessed. Epitomising the brand’s heritage, imaginative watchmaking and Japanese influence are what make up a Grand Seiko watch. Introducing the Grand Seiko Tentagraph and Majestic White Birch.
Grand Seiko always has a story to tell, and this year, it’s watchmaking that breaks brand records; a first Grand Seiko mechanical chronograph, and a delicately designed timepiece inspired by nature. Since its birth in 1960, Grand Seiko has reached new heights in precision and accurate watchmaking, and has evolved to be renowned for staying true to its Japanese roots. Sound exciting? Let’s jump into what makes these watches tick.
Grand Seiko Tentagraph
On the back of last year’s Watches and Wonders success, Grand Seiko are adding more milestones to their watchmaking. If you need a refresher of Watches & Wonders 2022, Grand Seiko released the Evolution 9. Fast forward to today and the Evolution 9 marks a new milestone - becoming the brand’s first mechanical chronograph.
The new Tentagraph is the 10-beat chronograph with the longest power reserve in the industry today, an incredible 72 hours. The Tentagraph Calibre 9SC5 beats ten times per second, making it a watch with outstanding accuracy when measuring not only the time of day, but also elapsed time. A record-breaker for Grand Seiko, the Tentagraph incorporates new, complex mechanism whilst staying true to the brand’s roots.
The markings of a Grand Seiko sports watch are displayed in the Tentagraph; strong features, powerful movement, and respectful pointers to its Japanese heritage. With robust lines, hands, and indices, the watch exhibits confidence and strength, making it a renowned choice for sports enthusiasts. This motif is maximised by the Tentagraph’s resilient ceramic bezel, titanium case and bracelet.
A sports watch perfect for those with a fast-paced and adventurous lifestyle, the Tentagraph ensures daring style. The watch dial includes a unique Grand Seiko characteristic, the signature ‘Mt Iwate’ pattern, which mimics the edges and contours of the Japanese mountain, that can be seen from the Grand Seiko studio. The blue dial face also gives us a sense of the landscape, representing a peaceful Japanese night sky. The silver hands and indices are coated in Lumibrite, for a sleek, luminous finish, that makes a striking contrast with the blue hue.
We asked our Head of Luxury Watches, Bruce, for his thoughts on Grand Seiko’s first mechanical chronograph.
“The marvellous mechanical movements crafted by Grand Seiko are displayed through the watch’s case back. The see-through sapphire crystal means the wearer can fully appreciate its revolutionary mechanism. A fascinating finish.”
Grand Seiko Majestic White Birch
Joining the Grand Seiko masterpiece collection, which is truly living up to its name, is the Grand Seiko Majestic White Birch watch. Limited to only 50 pieces, this limited edition is a seriously special watch. Carefully crafted entirely in-house by expert watchmakers, engravers, and artisans, this timepiece is one that you’ll not want to miss.
Inspired by a forest of white birch trees at the foot of the Japanese North Yatsugatake Mountains, the pattern on the dial and case encapsulates the essence of the snowy forest. Mimicking the scene in the midst of winter, the silver dial and details pay tribute to the majestic white birch forest. With each watch hand-engraved, Grand Seiko’s exquisite and intricate watchmaking process is displayed at its very best in the Majestic White Birch watch.
Our Head of Luxury Watches, Bruce, told us about Grand Seiko’s wonderful new watch, and how it encapsulates luxury through both design and manufacture.
“Grand Seiko honours its Japanese heritage with every timepiece, and the Majestic White Birch is no exception. Implementing nothing but the very best to represent the natural beauty of the Japanese forest, the case is crafted in 950 platinum, and a luxury 14k white gold for hour and minute hands.”
The minute markers and lettering seen on the dial are delicately hand-carved, just like the rest of the complex pattern on the dial. The birch tree motif on the dial and case are meticulously hand-engraved to represent the ridges and lines of the birches, creating a truly beautiful decoration.
The platinum and white gold hues reflect the bright snowy and wintery scene that has inspired this beautiful watch. A metallic texture is incorporated onto the dial, causing a brilliant shine under light. A sharp contrast of black and silver, the black crocodile strap adorns the slim and lightweight case.
Adding to the intricate design, the case back is a work of art in itself. The see-through case back shows the Grand Seiko Spring Drive movement, which enables the watch’s impressive 84-hour power reserve. The barrel on the case back is decorated to represent the bellflower, the symbol of the Japanese city of Shiojiri. Upon the case back, an 18k gold plaque is seen with the engraved words ‘Micro Artist’, to hallmark the Micro Artist Studio that crafted this extraordinary Majestic White Birch watch.
Have you been looking forward to Watches and Wonders 2023 this year? If you love luxury watches, the biggest watch event of the year is one that you’ll not want to miss. Keep up with our highlights, updates, and features if you’re excited to discover more marvellous mechanics and unique showstoppers from internationally loved watch brands.
