Grand Seiko Automatic (Ref. SBGR019 / 9S55-0050), 2002

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Fans of Seiko have almost certainly heard the fascinating story of inter-company competition between King Seiko and Grand Seiko during the 1960s and 1970s. Back then, Seiko had two separate factories creating its watches, with Grand Seiko produced at the Suwa factory and King Seiko produced by the Daini factory. Seiko’s objective behind having its two factories compete against each other was to promote progress through competition, with the end goal of building the best timepieces possible. Grand Seiko ended up winning out and has gone on to become one of the most respected brands in the business. For decades, however, Grand Seiko enthusiasts had to acquire such pieces directly from Japan or through a third-party seller, as they were exclusive to the Japanese market. Historically speaking, Grand Seiko has labeled itself as a sub-brand of Seiko up until 2017. However, the sister company decided to spread its wings and fly as a fully independent brand that year. This particular piece is a beautiful, modern silhouette. Whether you admire the subtle dial details or you're drawn to the mirror-like finish created by Seiko's method of 'Zaratsu' polishing (a skill that requires 3+ years of practice before a craftsman is trusted to polish a watch), there's no denying the crisp and shining elegance of this piece. The brand has perfected the craft of creating timepieces that vividly capture both light and shadow through their rigorous innovations in design and accuracy, and this Grand Seiko is a fantastic example of ingenuity. SPECS Stock # GSSKO9S55 Brand Grand Seiko Style Automatic Model SBGR019 9S55-0050 Serial 1NXXXX Size Men's Material Stainless Steel Dial Black "Textured" Millimeters 36 Bracelet Grand Seiko Stainless Steel Bracelet CASE & BRACELET The extraordinarily crisp case remains unpolished, displaying the painstakingly accurate finishing throughout, with only nominal signs of use present. The stepped bezel features a high-shine dodecagon on the outside and a brushed round inner bezel, both of which remain in excellent condition with gentle signs of use present. The case retains its original signed screw-down crown. The case back features all of its original factory markings in fully present condition, and the Grand Seiko medallion remains crisp. There are some minor tool marks present on the case back. The original Grand Seiko stainless steel bracelet will fit up to a 7 1/4-inch wrist and exhibits nominal stretch from use. DIAL & HANDS The black, intricately textured dial is in virtually flawless condition, showing no damage or apparent age. The original and beautifully finished dauphine hands are also in perfect condition. ACCESSORIES The watch is a complete set with its original boxes, guarantee, timing certificates, and booklets. The watch is functioning perfectly and keeping time, previous service history is unknown.