Grand Seiko Unveils a new E-Boutique Exclusive - And It's a Stunner

As a brand, Grand Seiko have killed it this year. Their seemingly endless amount of new models into existing collections… I haven’t seen one so far that I haven’t liked. I’ve been particularly fond of the SLGA007 as of late. This week, Grand Seiko has added a new model to it’s Spring Drive Heritage collection, and it includes a previously inaccessible Katsuiro color to the dial. This is the Grand Seiko Boutique Online Exclusive Edition (ref. SBGA469).

THE BASICS:

Brand: Grand Seiko

Model: Boutique Online Exclusive Edition (ref. SBGA469)

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Case Size: 41mm x 12.5mm

Water Resistance: 100 meters

Crystal: Dual-Curved Sapphire Crystal

Movement:  GS 9R65

Movement Specs: Spring Drive, 72-Hour Power Reserve

Strap Options: Stainless Steel Bracelet

THE JUICE:

This isn’t the first watch to feature this swirl-style finishing on the dial called the “Rock Pattern”, but it is the first time we’ve seen the Katsuiro color in an attainable watch. The deep indigo color was previously seen on a chronograph (ref. SBGC238) , but that model was solid gold and prices in at over forty grand.

The color is Samurai inspired, and apparently used in the 15th century as a color of victory. So naturally, Grand Seiko has opted to utilize it in on a model that continues to break the brand into the online.

During the Covid pandemic, brands have attempted to adapt to the new way people buy things. Grand Seiko has been no exception, though I would argue they’ve done it surprisingly well compared to many of their Swiss counterparts. I think adding a very desirable color to the more affordable segment of the brand is going to do well. I believe this will sell out without incident.

How much is the Grand Seiko Boutique Online Exclusive Edition (ref. SBGA469)?

The watch will be exclusive to Grand Seiko’s online boutique, and come with a price tag of $5,000 USD.

You can purchase this watch on the brand’s website here.