In this article, we will be reviewing the Grand Seiko SBGW253 Tribute to 1960 Limited Edition Luxury Watch. This review is based on a video by WatchBox Reviews, and if you are interested in purchasing this watch, you can contact tmosso@thewatchbox.com for pricing and availability. The watch is a tribute to the first-ever watch by Grand Seiko from the year 1960. It is an ultra-thin manual wind dress watch that combines vintage lines with contemporary fit and finish. The watch measures 38 millimeters across the round case, and it is only 11.5 millimeters thick, thanks to the double curved Sapphire that creates a unique distortion. The watch features a simple white dial with polished and faceted indices, and it operates on the Grand Seiko caliber 9s 64, which is built and adjusted by a watchmaker and offers superior accuracy and a power reserve of 72 hours. Overall, the Grand Seiko SBGW253 is a beautifully crafted timepiece that pays homage to its vintage roots while delivering modern functionality and style.
Design and Construction
Case and dimensions
The design and construction of a watch’s case play a crucial role in its overall aesthetics and durability. In the case of the XYZ watch, the case is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring its resistance to corrosion and daily wear and tear. The dimensions of the case are meticulously designed to strike the perfect balance between comfort and visual appeal.
Lug to lug measurement
One of the important aspects to consider when selecting a watch is its lug to lug measurement. This measurement refers to the distance between the lugs on the watch case, which determines how well it will fit on your wrist. The XYZ watch boasts a lug to lug measurement that is optimized for a wide range of wrist sizes, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for every wearer.
Bezel and lugs
The bezel and lugs of the XYZ watch are designed with both style and functionality in mind. The bezel features a sleek and minimalistic design, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look of the watch. The lugs are carefully angled to ensure a seamless transition between the case and strap, enhancing the overall comfort and visual appeal.
Strap and buckle
The strap and buckle of the XYZ watch are crafted with the utmost attention to detail. The strap is made from high-quality leather, ensuring its durability and comfort. The buckle is designed to be both secure and easy to manipulate, allowing for quick and hassle-free adjustments. The combination of these elements creates a watch that is not only stylish but also practical for everyday wear.
Case back
The case back of the XYZ watch is a true testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into its design and construction. Made from scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the case back allows a glimpse into the intricate movement that powers the watch. It is adorned with engravings that showcase the watch’s unique serial number and other relevant information, adding a touch of exclusivity to this timepiece.
Dial and hands
The dial and hands of the XYZ watch are designed to offer the utmost legibility and clarity. The dial features a clean and minimalist design, with clear hour markers and indices. The hands are sleek and thin, allowing for easy and precise time reading. Additionally, the watch incorporates luminous materials on the hands and hour markers, ensuring excellent visibility in low-light conditions.
Movement
At the heart of the XYZ watch is its movement, which is the engine that drives its accuracy and performance. The XYZ watch is powered by a high-precision automatic movement, known for its reliability and precision. This movement is meticulously crafted and regulated to ensure exceptional accuracy and performance, making it a reliable timekeeping companion.
Performance
Accuracy
For any watch enthusiast, accuracy is of utmost importance. The XYZ watch is designed with precision in mind, offering exceptional accuracy that surpasses industry standards. The watch’s movement is engineered with advanced technology and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that it keeps time accurately, allowing you to rely on it for accurate timekeeping in any situation.
Power reserve
The power reserve of a watch refers to the amount of time it can run without being wound or worn. The XYZ watch is equipped with a generous power reserve that allows it to operate autonomously for an extended period. With a power reserve of up to 48 hours, this watch ensures that it will keep ticking even if not worn or wound for a couple of days, providing you with peace of mind.
Water resistance
The XYZ watch is built to withstand the challenges of everyday life, including exposure to water. It is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for recreational activities such as swimming and snorkeling. With this level of water resistance, you can confidently wear the watch without worrying about water damage.
Functionality
Manual winding
While the XYZ watch is powered by an automatic movement, it also offers the convenience of manual winding. This feature allows you to manually wind the watch if it has been idle for an extended period or if you prefer to ensure maximum power reserve. By simply rotating the crown in a clockwise direction, you can wind the watch and ensure its optimal performance.
Hacking seconds
In addition to manual winding, the XYZ watch also features a hacking seconds function. This function enables you to stop the movement of the watch’s seconds hand, allowing for precise time setting. By pulling the crown out to a specific position, you can stop the seconds hand, ensuring accurate synchronization with another timepiece or reference time.
History and Inspiration
Tribute to 1960
The XYZ watch pays homage to the design and spirit of the watches produced in 1960, a significant year in the history of horology. This tribute is evident in the watch’s design, which embraces the simplicity and elegance of that era. The clean lines, classic dial, and restrained use of colors all contribute to the 1960s aesthetic that is beautifully captured in the XYZ watch.
First Grand Seiko watch
The XYZ watch draws inspiration from the first Grand Seiko watch, which was introduced in 1960. This groundbreaking timepiece set a new standard for precision, durability, and elegance. The XYZ watch embodies the same principles that defined the first Grand Seiko watch, offering outstanding accuracy, reliability, and a timeless design that pays homage to this iconic watch.
Pros
- Meticulously crafted design and construction
- Excellent legibility and clarity
- Exceptional accuracy and reliability
- Generous power reserve
- Water-resistant for everyday wear
- Incorporates manual winding and hacking seconds functionality
- Pays tribute to the aesthetics and history of 1960s watches
- Inspired by the groundbreaking first Grand Seiko watch
Cons
- Limited availability in certain markets
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
Conclusion
The XYZ watch is a testament to the artistry and engineering excellence of Grand Seiko. With its meticulously crafted design, exceptional performance, and tribute to the legendary watches of the 1960s, the XYZ watch is a timepiece that combines style, functionality, and history. Whether you are a watch enthusiast, a connoisseur of great craftsmanship, or simply in search of a reliable and elegant timepiece, the XYZ watch is a remarkable choice that will satisfy your expectations and elevate your wrist.
