About This Watch:

With a limited edition run of 2500 numbered pieces, the Grand Seiko SBGR321 was released as part of Grand Seiko’s 60th Anniversary timepiece collection. The 60th Anniversary collection celebrates the significance of the number 60 in Japanese culture, which signals a period of new energy and rebirth. Its shimmering blue dial, inspired by the colors of the sky at dawn over Mt. Iwate, and the impressive automatic 9S65 movement, visible through the exhibition case back, are just a few of the details that make this timepiece stand out.

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 and the hands and indices that give the Grand Seiko its distinct appearance.

The Watch: The Grand Seiko Heritage SBGR321 features a 40mm stainless steel case with a domed sapphire crystal. Powered by the in-house Calibre 9S65 automatic movement, the SBGR321 features a 72-hour power reserve and a water resistance rating of 100 meters. The dial is a deep blue color with applied zaratsu polished indices, zaratsu polished hands, and a date window at the 3 o’clock position.

The Details: This limited edition Grand Seiko 60th Anniversary SBGR321 is number 2292/2500. The case shows some wear around the bezel, case back, and lugs, which are visible in the photographs. This timepiece comes with a black leather strap from Hodinkee with a stainless steel buckle.