Everything
Last night, Grand Seiko hosted an exclusive gala dinner for a select few industry watch folk at Sydney’s famed ‘Bennelong’ Sydney Opera House restaurant. It was here that the Japanese watchmaker unveiled a very special, limited edition release dedicated to its prominent market down under.
Introducing the Grand Seiko SBGJ269 GMT – the first Australian-exclusive Limited Edition timepiece from the Japanese watchmaker.
From the get-go, there’s no doubt that the SBGJ269 is simply stunning. Inspired by Pink Flannel Flower (Actinotus forsythii), the uniquely textured dial mimics the beautiful pinks found in the blossoming flannel flower, whilst the red of the GMT reflects the colour of the flower buds just before they bloom.
You might be wondering, why did Grand Seiko take inspiration from the Pink Flannel Flower? Well, the pink flannel flower is notably a symbol of the Australian spirit of resilience. It blooms under rainfall in the season following Australia’s often devastating bushfire season to bring new life and new colour to landscapes decimated by the ravaging fires. Not only that, but the Pink Flannel Flower is a sign of rebirth and renewal that showcases nature’s ability to overcome adversity.
At a glance, the Grand Seiko SBGJ269 comes in at an easy-wearing 39.5mm stainless steel case, and a thickness of 14.1mm which enables a comfortable wear on the wrist. Under the hood, the watch features the Hi-Beat 36000 GMT calibre 9S86 which offers 55 hours of power reserve. This automatic movement is clearly visible through the sapphire crystal case back which features the etched limited edition numbering.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a classic Grand Seiko design without its Zaratsu polished finishings; the softly contoured case has distinctive Grand Seiko edges that are sharp and angular, with the sides Zaratsu polished for a distortion-free finish. This craftsmen-led process has become a distinguishing feature of Grand Seiko timepieces and a time-honoured tradition the watchmaking house is famed for.
The SBGJ269 comes on a stainless steel case and bracelet with a three-fold clasp with push button release and comes with an additional crocodile leather strap.
The landmark Grand Seiko SBGJ269 is only available for purchase within Australia, and our guesses are that it will be an immediate hit with watch enthusiasts around the country.
Specifications
Caliber 9S86: SBGJ269
Driving system: Automatic
Vibrations: 36,000 vibrations per hour (10 beats per second)
Accuracy (mean daily rate): +5 to –3 seconds per day
Power reserve: 55 hours
Number of jewels: 37
Stainless steel case and bracelet
Box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
See-through screw case back
Water resistance: 3 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Diameter: 39.5mm, Thickness: 14.1mm
The Grand Seiko SBGJ269 Australian Exclusive is a limited edition of just 50 pieces and is only available in Australia. RRP $10,600.
