GRAND SEIKO
LAUNCHES
U.S. EDITION SPRING DRIVE
Grand Seiko Spring Drive
caliber 9R15/65
GRAND SEIKO HAS UNDERSCORED ITS NEWLY MINTED U.S.
subsidiary with a U.S. Edition Grand Seiko Spring Drive watch featuring a
glistening, specially made Kira-zuri dial.
The 40mm new model, which Grand Seiko will offer in three limited
editions, features the electro-mechanical Spring Drive caliber 9R15/65
powering three hands, a date and a power reserve indicator.
Each of the three editions is different in respect to case metal and dial
color, though all dials are inspired by Japanese painting technique called
Kira-zuri (sparkling painting), a type of painting used to create texture
for Kabuki actors. The technique adds depth to the dials, which take on
a pleasing fabric-like texture as a result. The case itself is Grand Seiko’s
classic 44GS with its lovely dual-curved sapphire crystal, offset with super
80 | INTERNATIONAL WATCH | WINTER 2019
mirror-polished markers and hands, thanks to Grand Seiko’s traditional
Zaratsu finishing.
The three limited editions are made in platinum PT950 (twenty pieces),
rose gold (fifty pieces) and stainless steel (558 pieces). Grand Seiko gave
special attention to the dial on the platinum model, which seems to
shimmer just a bit more thanks to an additional plating process. The steel
version features a sky blue dial while the rose gold case is paired with a
green-bronze tint.
All three limited editions are available at select Grand Seiko retail
partners and Grand Seiko boutiques in the United States. Prices: $53,000
(platinum), $29,500 (rose gold) and $6,800 (steel case and bracelet, with
two additional crocodile straps).