About This Watch:

Japan marks the calendar year with twenty-four micro-seasons, called sekki, which follow the gradual changing of nature as each week passes.  To commemorate the passing of time in line with the changing of seasons in the US, Grand Seiko released the Four Seasons Heritage Collection, which consists of a timepiece for each of the traditional seasons celebrated in the States.  The “Shubun” Ref SBGH273 represents Fall, with a dial inspired by cloudy fall nights, illuminated by moonlight against the dark blue sky.  Powered by the impressive HI-Beat 36,000bph Caliber 9S85 movement, the Shubun SBGH273 is presented in a reimagined take on the classic 62GS bezel-free case in stainless steel.

The History:  In 1960, a specialized group of craftsmen set out to design and create an in-house movement for Seiko that resulted in the Calibre 3180.  This movement became the foundation for a new line of Seiko timepieces that would become the Grand Seiko.  The pursuit was to create the “ideal watch” in every way, from precision, legibility, and beauty.  Having conquered the movement, the designers next set out to create a case and finish that modeled their idea of beauty, which included the use of zaratsu polishing.  This polishing process creates a mirror-like quality to the case finish, as well as the hands and indices that give the Grand Seiko its distinct appearance.

The Watch:  The Grand Seiko Hi-Beat “Shubun” SBGH273 celebrates the “Tsukiyo,” which is the moonlight night.  The dial of the Shubun is dark blue with light striations, which symbolize the clouds passing through the sky.  The dial also features zaratsu polished hour markers, hour and minute hands with a golden-colored second hand and a gold-colored Grand Seiko applied logo at the 12 o’clock position.  The SBGH273 features a 40mm stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal and an exhibition case back showcasing the 9S85 Mechanical Hi-Beat 36,000 movement, built by the craftsmen and women of the Shizukuishi Watch Studio.

The Details:  This Grand Seiko Hi-Beat “Shubun” Ref SBGH273 shows some wear on the case and bracelet, which is visible in the photographs. Included with this timepiece are the outer and inner boxes, operating instructions, warranty card, certificate holder, inspection certificate, and the original stainless steel Grand Seiko bracelet.