Autumn Splendor: Grand Seiko Unveils Two New Spring Drive Models with Expressive Red Dials

Grand Seiko continues to draw inspiration from Japan’s breathtaking natural landscapes, unveiling two new models—the SBGY035 and SBGA499— that capture the vibrant beauty of autumn. Inspired by the moment when the first rays of sunlight illuminate the red leaves of fall, the watchmakers at the Shinshu Studio have crafted these pieces with a deep appreciation for the changing seasons.

Grand Seiko Elegance Collection 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition SBGY035

The first of the two new models, the Elegance Collection 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition ref. SBGY035, features a dial that graduates from a deep red at the edge to a brighter hue at the center, representing the transition from dawn to daylight over the rugged Hotaka Mountains. As the dial captures this mystical moment, the Spring Drive seconds hand glides smoothly across its surface, reflecting the serene passage of time.

With a contemporary case size of 38.5mm in diameter and a slim profile of 10.2mm in height, this stainless steel watch is designed as an elegant dress watch. The SBGY035 is also engineered to withstand magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m and is water-resistant to 10 bar, showcasing Grand Seiko’s commitment to reliability and durability.

At its heart is the manually wound Spring Drive Caliber 9R31, offering a power reserve of 72 hours and an impressive accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. The watch is paired with a rich burgundy crocodile leather strap, adding to its refined aesthetic. Limited to 700 pieces, the SBGY035 will be available from November 2024 at a price of $8,500.

Grand Seiko Elegance Collection 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition SBGA499

The second model, the Elegance Collection 9R 20th Anniversary Limited Edition ref. SBGA499, shares the same autumn-inspired color scheme but with a dial finished in a radiant sunburst pattern, free of any texture or gradient. This model is enhanced with a date window and a power reserve indicator, the latter of which is presented in a coppery-pink hue, mirroring the GS logo.

Housed in a slightly larger stainless steel case measuring 40.2mm in diameter and 12.8mm in height, the SBGA499 presents a more robust and sporty profile. It comes equipped with a three-link metal bracelet and maintains the same water resistance of 100 meters and magnetic resistance as the SBGY035.

Powered by the automatic Spring Drive Caliber 9R65, this model also boasts a 72-hour power reserve and a precision of ±15 seconds per month. The SBGA499 is limited to 1,300 pieces and will be available starting in September 2024, priced at $5,800.

To learn more, visit Grand Seiko, here.