Seiko SBGH281-60th Anniversary Limited Edition

It’s been 60 years since Seiko embarked on their self-imposed mission to create the perfect watch, and during that time most collectors would agree that they’ve done just that more than once. Needless to say, the big name in Japanese watchmaking has been hard at work celebrating their birthday with a slew of limited editions, reissues and exceptional pieces – starting with the SBGH281, now available at Watches of Switzerland in Canary Wharf.

This new piece is a perfect throwback to the first iconic Grand Seiko watch from 1967, the 44GS. It was this watch that laid out what elite manufacturing was all about in the metal, from restrained, timeless style to exceptional finishes on par with what the finest Japanese craftsmen could achieve.

Grand Seiko has come a long way since then, with many new models and movements, but the 44GS has always been in their blood, as this new watch shows. The SBGH281 takes many of the visual cues from the original, including the 40mm stainless steel case, but with some modern touches.

Visually, that means a bright gold GS logo against a midnight blue dial. Combined with a bright red seconds hand, the combination is meant to evoke a sunrise. Regardless, it’s a stunning colorway that’s well suited to the watch’s refined nature.

Of course, the movement has also come a long way. The SBGH281 contains Grand Seiko’s proprietary Hi-Beat Caliber 9S85, which beats at 36,000 vibrations per hour, far higher than most movements. This in turn improves the movement’s reliability and accuracy, meaning the 9S85 runs +5 to -3 seconds per day.

This isn’t the fanciest watch Grand Seiko has released this year, but it’s arguably the most “Grand Seiko” of all, a modern interpretation of the watches that make up the brand. With just 1,500 available worldwide, it won’t be long before they’re in short supply – so get yours now at Watches of Switzerland in Canary Wharf.

Price and specifications:

Model name: Grand Seiko SBGH281 60th Anniversary Limited Edition
Ref: SBGH281Case/dial: 40mm diameter × 13.3mm thickness, stainless steelWater resistance: 100m (10 ATM)Movement: 9S85 calibre, manual windingFrequency: 36,000 vph (5 Hz)Power reserve: 55hStrap: 3-link steel braceletPrice: 5,350 GBP, limited to 1,500 pieces