Grand Seiko SBGR051

[carl]

This beautiful timepiece deserves it's own thread. In a way, I just discovered it today. I had first seen it on the Timeless website, and noticed it because it was 37mm, a size that I really like. The description of the dial stated it as "white" so I put it out of my head as I already have the lovely quartz model with the Polar White dial. Today, as I was glancing at the GS models yet again, it caught my eye as not being really white. So, I did a little more research. Turns out it, and it's black dial brother, are the least expensive automatic models in the GS lineup! Here are a couple of pics I stole:





I looked at hundreds of pics, and again the lovely dial and all the detailing really got me. Then I saw Chip's video of his Hi-Beat and the fineness of the silver sunburst really hit me. Now, I do love the silver sunburst on my Air-King, but I do believe it is surpassed by the GS.

This little gem has gone to the top of my list, ahead of anything else including the Globemaster. Here is another pic, a closeup of the dial:

The detailing is amazing. Again, even the background on the date window is silver to go with the dial, hands, markers and case. And, being the smaller case, I really like how the date window extends almost to the edge of the dial. So there is no partial marker at all. A small thing perhaps that really has no other reason than the fact the dial is a small 37mm.

Cheers,

Carl

[rw16610]

Didn't see this one coming but totally understand your appreciation foe this piece! There's certainly something special about the look of a Grand Seiko watch!

[carl]

Here is an excellent YouTube video:

[CHIP]

I'm hooked on the GS.

I have never ever had a watch before that makes me just want to stare at the way it plays with the light.

All one has to do to enjoy it is get over the name on the dial, and I know that's no easy task. I struggled with it myself.

[carl]

Jan 29, 2016 0:39:21 GMT -6 rw16610 said:

Didn't see this one coming but totally understand your appreciation foe this piece! There's certainly something special about the look of a Grand Seiko watch!

Yes, and I'm afraid it takes the spotlight off the Globemaster for me. And it doesn't hurt that it's half the price or less.

[rw16610]

carl I think having a diverse collection is the best way to not get bored (so easy). Although great, all of those watches are made by Omega and have certain similarities. Having those along with this and maybe some others later down would likely be more satisfying. Grand Seiko was never able to get out of your mind and maybe that tells you all you need to know right there. Without one you'll likely be left with a void in the collection.

[carl]

Jan 29, 2016 0:54:54 GMT -6 rw16610 said:

carl I think having a diverse collection is the best way to not get bored (so easy). Although great, all of those watches are made by Omega and have certain similarities. Having those along with this and maybe some others later down would likely be more satisfying. Grand Seiko was never able to get out of your mind and maybe that tells you all you need to know right there. Without one you'll likely be left with a void in the collection.

Well, I will actually end up with three Grand Seikos and two Omegas! I decided to keep my Hi-Beat and I also have my quartz with the beautiful white dial. The one with the ivory dial went to Ian for the Air-King. I was all set to keep the Air-King as well - and completely forget about the Globemaster - until I saw this GS. I noticed it last year, and because I thought it has a white dial, didn't pay much attention. Although the black dial version is wonderful as well. The only thing that I won't have once again is a Rolex!

[Baco Noir]

Carl,

While I respect GS and love the way the light reflects off all the various angles and polished vs brushed surfaces, because this one is almost monochromatic silver, I prefer the Globemaster. I like some contrast on my dials.

Also, before you make up your mind, keep in mind that Basel is coming and I read that Omega may be making some of their collection thinner this year.

[carl]

Jan 29, 2016 8:38:33 GMT -6 Baco Noir said:

Carl,

While I respect GS and love the way the light reflects off all the various angles and polished vs brushed surfaces, because this one is almost monochromatic silver, I prefer the Globemaster. I like some contrast on my dials.

Also, before you make up your mind, keep in mind that Basel is coming and I read that Omega may be making some of their collection thinner this year.

You are correct about having little contrast. But that also appeals to me in a certain way, definitely all silver. All the other watches I have do have contrasting features on the dials, so I don't think it would be an issue. It is actually an attraction for me on this model.

Damn, I hate it when someone else is right! And, you did just remind me that I promised myself to wait until Basel 2016 to see what appears . And both the Globemaster and the GS will still be there.

[Baco Noir]

carl - you're welcome!








(Don't tell anyone but I'm fighting internal watch purchase struggles right now too!  )

[CHIP]

Basel is less than 60 days away, might be worth waiting.
I for one kinda want a GS GMT, so I'll wait for Basel myself to see what they release.

[carl]

"Sleepless in Vancouver". Another fairly sleepless night for me last night, thoughts of a new watch will do it every time! I got up twice to look at photos of the SBGR051!! But, yeah, worthwhile waiting for Basel.

[rw16610]

The excitement of a potential incoming is one of the greatest feelings! Thankfully Basel 2016 isn't that far away, so you'll be better off not making a move until the new releases get unveiled. Although the Globemaster or even the Air King stand out to me more it'll be more fun having the 5 watches long term. With the way you've been speaking about the Grand Seiko's as a daily piece though it makes sense. A very confusing situation to be in but thankfully after Basel things will be more clear.

[carl]

I could scarcely believe my eyes when I saw that the local Grand Seiko AD actually has the SBGR051 in stock. They just received a shipment, since I was last there about 10 days ago. Very glad to be able to try it on my wrist. I was wondering how it would feel as it is the same thickness as my Hi-Beat, but the case size is only 37mm, whereas the Hi-Beat is 40mm. I need not have worried as it is a perfect fit. And every bit as beautiful as I thought it might be:

[CHIP]

Nice!! I like that one.