2
0
1
8
BASEL
PREVIEW
GRAND SEIKO
Two Limited Editions
IN 1993, CALIBER 9F83, THE FIRST 9F CALIBER , was completed. This
year, Grand Seiko introduces a new limited edition (SBGT241, below) that pays
homage to the 1993 design. Its case and bracelet retain the soft contours of
the original. There are, however, stylistic enhancements. The case is slightly
larger, the Grand Seiko name is now at the 12 o’clock position and the dial
carries a special pattern based on the traditional quartz symbol above the six
o’clock marker. The symbol is a 5-pointed star that symbolizes the high preci-
sion rate of + 5 to – 5 seconds a year. The Grand Seiko lion emblem is in 18-karat
yellow gold on the case back. The dial pattern at the 25-minute position is also
subtly different; the symbols 9F and 25 are discreetly shown. This commemo-
rative watch is offered in a limited series of 1,500. It will be available in selected
markets from April 2018.
A second limited edition (SBGV238, right) also commemorates the 25th anni-
versary of Caliber 9F. The case design is a contemporary re-interpretation of
the celebrated 44GS from 1967 (with just the date indication) and showcases the
beauty of the finishing on the 9F movement through an exhibition case back.
Here however the bezel is 18-karat gold. Seiko will make 600 of these two-tone
models, which will be available in May. Approximate recommended retail price
in Europe: 3,400 Euro (SBGT241) and 5,000 Euro (SBGV238)
80 | INTERNATIONAL WATCH | SPRING 2018