For aficionados of wristwatch craftsmanship, the journey of Grand Seiko’s Spring Drive is a tale of relentless pursuit, innovation, and precision. Born from a visionary concept in the 1970s, the Spring Drive sought to amalgamate the enduring force of a mainspring with the sophistication of electronic watchmaking technologies, thereby redefining the standards of accuracy in mechanical timepieces. Over two decades of meticulous development culminated in the emergence of the 9R movement, the heartbeat of all Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches today.
In September 2004, the horological world witnessed the dawn of a new era as Grand Seiko unveiled the inaugural Spring Drive watch, a testament to unrivalled precision, automatic winding, and an impressive 72-hour power reserve. Fast forward to 2024, a pivotal year marking the 20th anniversary of this monumental achievement, where Grand Seiko proudly introduces two new creations that pay homage to the illustrious legacy of Spring Drive.
Grand Seiko Heritage Collection Caliber 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition: SBGA497
The first creation, a beacon of elegance and refinement, pays tribute to the original Spring Drive watch of 2004. Adorned with the iconic ‘snowflake’ patterned dial, reminiscent of the serene landscapes of Nagano Prefecture’s Hotaka mountain range, this masterpiece captivates enthusiasts with its mesmerizing pink gradation—a vivid portrayal of the sunrise against snow. Crafted with high-intensity titanium, renowned for its lightweight durability, and boasting the signature glide motion of the Spring Drive seconds hand, this limited edition timepiece exemplifies the seamless passage of time.
Spring Drive Caliber 9R65
- Automatic
- Accuracy: ±1 second per day (±15 seconds per month)
- Power reserve: 72 hours
- Number of jewels: 30
Specifications:
- High-intensity titanium case and bracelet
- Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- See-through screw case back
- Water resistance: 10 bar
- Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
- Diameter: 41.0mm, Thickness: 12.5mm
- Three-fold clasp with push-button release
- Recommended retail price in Canada: $8,500
- Limited edition of 1,500
SBGA497
Grand Seiko Sport Collection Caliber 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition: SBGE305
Joining the celebration, the second creation from the Sport Collection introduces a captivating Spring Drive GMT, featuring a striking dark red dial inspired by the vivid hues of summer sunrise over the Hotaka mountain range. Crafted for the modern explorer, this GMT watch embodies the quintessential Grand Seiko spirit with a scratch-resistant ceramic bezel, screw-down crown, and a robust stainless steel case.
The independent local hour hand ensures precision amidst changing time zones, while the silver-coloured GMT hand enhances legibility against the dark red dial—a testament to Grand Seiko’s commitment to functionality and design.
Spring Drive Caliber 9R66
- Automatic
- Accuracy: ±1 second per day (±15 seconds per month)
- Power reserve: 72 hours
- GMT hand
- Number of jewels: 30
SBGE305
Specifications:
- Stainless steel case and bracelet
- Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Screw case back, screw-down crown
- Ceramic bezel
- Water resistance: 20 bar
- Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
- Diameter: 40.5mm, Thickness: 14.7mm
- Three-fold clasp with push button release
- Recommended retail price in Canada: $8,400
- Limited edition of 1,300
As Grand Seiko celebrates two decades of Spring Drive excellence, these new creations stand as timeless symbols of innovation, precision, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Available exclusively at Grand Seiko Boutiques and select retail partners worldwide, these limited editions embody the spirit of horological mastery, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey through time, tradition, and innovation.
Mark Harrison (left) is a luxury watch connoisseur, having travelled to some of world’s top international watch and jewellery events and trade shows, in particular Baselworld, held every spring in Basel, Switzerland. Baselworld is a must-attend week on the calendar for watch lovers, and Mark will be in attendance again this year. He writes regularly on trends in luxury watches for Regarding Luxury.
