Nature is a cornerstone of Japanese culture and a predominant theme at Grand Seiko. Even the environments of the Japanese brand's factories have been deliberately designed to inspire the takumi (artisans). Hailing from Grand Seiko's haute horlogerie studio Micro Artist Studio in Shiojiri, the Japanese brand launches a high-quality platinum masterpiece SBGZ011, with a hand-engraved 44GS case and a dial inspired by the Tateshina waterfall, powered by the ultra-thin hand-wound Spring Drive caliber 9R02.
Grand Seiko's elite Micro Artist Studio focuses exclusively on complex, handcrafted Spring Drive movements, such as the 8-day power reserve and the newer Spring Drive line of flat dress watches powered by 9R02 caliber. In addition to developing highly refined calibers, the studio specializes in exceptional manual finishing techniques.
The case chosen for this platinum edition, limited to 15 pieces, is the brand's iconic 44GS. Launched in 1967, the 44GS defined Grand Seiko's “grammar of design” with powerful angles, wide, flat surfaces and lustrous Zaratsu-polished highlights. Measuring 40mm in diameter and with a slim 9.6mm profile, the new watch is hand-engraved with small indentations to recreate the feel of flowing water. The interior surfaces are Zaratsu polished and emphasize the angular tabs.
Similar to the coveted White Birch reference, the dial is also hand engraved with motifs reminiscent of the flow of spring water. The hour and minute hands and hand-applied diamond-cut markers are crafted from 14k white gold for a sharp, brilliant appearance. The tips of the minute and second hands are gently curved by hand.
As the plaque on the dial shows, this luxurious platinum edition is powered by the finely executed hand-wound Spring Drive Caliber 9R02 – the thinnest Spring Drive movement to date. Designed as an ultra-high-end movement for Micro Artist Studio creations, the slim 4mm caliber combines the precision of quartz regulation with the beauty and durability of a mechanical caliber. The double mainspring structure and torque feedback system ensure an excellent power reserve of 84 hours (the power reserve indicator is located on the caseback). Decorated with handcrafted bridges, highly polished bevels and fine hairlines, the movement features an openwork bellflower (the symbol of Shiojiri) above the barrel and a gold plaque engraved with “Micro Artist”.
The SBGZ011 features a classic black crocodile strap and a tri-fold platinum clasp with a push-button closure. The watch comes with an additional Kyoto leather strap with metallic accents reminiscent of the shimmer of splashing water. The watch is limited to 50 pieces and will be available exclusively in Grand Seiko boutiques in July 2026 86,000 euros. Further information at grand-seiko.com.
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