Description
About Grand Seiko SBGW297
Grand Seiko Manual-winding Heritage Collection
A slim, mid-size re-interpretation of the 44GS with a manually wound movement and a radiating dial pattern
The 44GS, the watch released in 1967 that was the first to fully embody the Grand Seiko Style, has evolved into a modern model with contemporary practicality. The SBGW297 is a manually wound mechanical model that features the smallest case diameter of the 44GS lineup at 36.5 mm. The watch is designed for ease of wear with its moderate size and comfortable bracelet. The thin, compact case and multifaceted, diamond-cut indexes sparkle beautifully and harmonize with the refined white dial, enhancing legibility. Protecting the dial, a box glass imparts a warmth to the design, further connecting the watch to its mid-century predecessor.
Grand Seiko SBGW297 Features
Design in the Grand Seiko Style, which embodies the aesthetic beauty of Japan
The year 1967 saw the release of the 44GS, the watch in which the Grand Seiko Style design language was fully realized. By modernizing the interpretation while seeking to re-create the design elements as much as possible, we have arrived at the evolved 44GS design. This model has inherited a design befitting Grand Seiko in all aspects, from the hands and dial to the case, taking the form of a watch that displays Japanese aesthetics in a modern fashion.
For details on the Grand Seiko Style
Dial with a radiating pattern of straight lines
The Grand Seiko Style that took shape in the 44GS finds inspiration in the straight lines and flat surfaces that can be observed in certain traditional Japanese objects, including paper sliding doors, folding screens, and folding fans, and this was the direction that was chosen for this watch’s dial as well. Its radiating pattern is created from a series of flat surfaces reminiscent of a folding fan, harmonizing with the 44GS case in a design that points to the roots of the Grand Seiko Style. A vivid, thermally blued steel seconds hand marks time against the patterned white dial.
Caliber 9S64
The manually wound movement features a maximum continuous power reserve of 72 hours (about three days). As the mainspring unwinds, its torque diminishes gradually to ensure that accuracy remains stable.
- 24 jewels
- Solid case back with lion emblem
- Stop second hand function
Grand Seiko SBGW297 History
Prior to 1960, to challenge the status of Swiss watches and change the perception of Japanese watches, Daini Seikosha and Suwa began the discussion of a product line that can match the quality of Swiss watches under the suggestion of the parent company. At the time, Suwa Seikosha Co. was in charge of manufacturing men’s watches, so it was decided that Suwa would be producing the first Grand Seiko (GS).
The first Grand Seiko was released in 1960, it was based on Seiko’s previous high-end watch, CROWN. This Grand Seiko has a 25-jewel, manual-winding, 3180 caliber, and only 36,000 units were produced. This was also the first chronometer-grade watch manufactured in Japan, and it was based on Seiko’s own chronometer standard.
Design style
The design language of the Grand Seiko was set in 1967, with the creation of Grand Seiko 44GS. The 44GS set the ground for all future Grand Seiko with nine elements. These elements help improve the legibility of the watch under different situations, and create a sharp, crisp visual impression:
- Double width index at 12 o’clock
- Multi-faceted rectangular markers
- Highly polished bezel
- Highly polished planes and two-dimensional surface
- Half recessed crown
- Flat dial
- Multi-faceted hour and minute hands
- Curved side line
- Reverse slanted bezel wall and case side
- Dress style with simple but beautiful design
- Zaratsu polishing
source : wikipedia
