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Grand Seiko – The recreation of the first Grand Seiko
Seiko releases yet another stunning collection, but this time with a profound change. The latest recreations at Baselworld 2017 come complete with the same inscription on the first Grand Seiko dial. It bears only Grand Seiko, without the brand name Seiko on the dial. Prior to this, Grand Seiko watches had both the Grand Seiko marking and Seiko branding on the dial with the exception of the very first Grand Seiko released in 1960.
The Grand Seiko recreation is built as a faithful recreation of the original Grand Seiko. From start to finish, the case, hands, dial and design are identical apart from upgrades in material and an increase in case dimensions. This collection is highly significant as it represents the Grand Seiko story coming full circle, with a new start for the brand name, which will now be independently represented on its watches; without the Seiko inscription.
The recreation of the first Grand Seiko in three different metals.
The case, dial and hands
The recreation of the first Grand Seiko is available in three different metals. Similar to the models that were first released in 1960, the collection is available in 18K yellow gold, Platinum and Stainless Steel.
The case is virtually identical to the original, but its diameter has been increased to 38mm. It has a slim profile, but not the thinnest, given its raised dome crystal. With the same movement as the SBGW031, the 9S64 manual winding, the watch measures approximately 11mm. The gold and platinum models are 10.7mm thick, while the steel model is 11.2mm thick.
The crystal used on the watch, frequently referred to as a raised dome, is in fact a dual-curved sapphire crystal. It stays loyal to the original shape and curvature of the 1960 Grand Seiko and gives the recreation the same retro-esque look.
An increased case size: The watch is virtually the same but with a modern day 38 mm dimension.
The dauphine hands and faceted hour markers were key characteristics of the first Grand Seiko and the same feature is observed in the recreation. The dial is the archetype of the time only watch genre, beautiful hands and markers on an empty dial was all that was needed.
The hour markers on the yellow gold model is also in 18k gold. For those who are wondering, the star mark at the six o’clock position indicates that this model uses gold for the hour markers. Dial print logos are fascinating and distinctive of discreet luxury. Similar in fashion to QF on L.U.C. Chopard, Q1 on vintage Glashütte dials.
The solid caseback on the steel version. Using new techniques, the embossed Grand Seiko logo has the same sharp outline as the original.
The case back is set to make the Grand Seiko emblem above the 3 o’clock position, which is also faithful to the original model.
The dials of the early Grand Seiko models all carried the name, of course, but there were three very different treatments. The Grand Seiko logo variations […]
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Article from: DEPLOYANT – Luxury watch reviews & horological lifestyles, by Chester Lau
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