Grand Seiko has proven themselves adept at capturing the subtle nuances of their surroundings, wielding the ever changing landscape as design inspiration to create some of the most unique dials in the industry. This week, Grand Seiko is introducing a new GMT reference SBGE305G limited edition with a dial inspired by Japan’s Hotaka mountain range in summer, featuring a rich red dial with a soft sunburnt texture. The concept comes together surprisingly well within the sporting confines of the SBGE platform, representing the first appearance of a black ceramic bezel that contrasts with the dial.
The newest SBGE uses a brilliant red dial born of a very specific place and time in Japan, a signature quality of Grand Seiko dials at this point. Mount Hotaka is situated in Japan’s Hida Mountains located northwest of Tokyo and is part of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. The powerful landscape translates to a beautiful dial treatment created by Grand Seiko without having to reference the shapes directly, leaving it open to some amount of personal translation.
The red dial works well paired with a black ceramic bezel framing it, and the exceptionally finished furniture at use marking for the functional elements of the watch. This is easily the boldest design yet to appear in the SBGE range, and it’s something I’d love to see Grand Seiko expand upon. The steel case remains 40.5mm in diameter and 14.7mm in thickness, making it easily approachable, if a bit on the tanky side on the wrist. Most importantly, these watches are wearable and they pair surprisingly well with other strap options.
Inside you’ll find Grand Seiko’s 9R66 Spring Drive movement providing true GMT functionality with an independently adjustable hour hand. A power reserve indication appears at 9 o’clock, while the date aperture takes over the 4 o’clock hour marker. The date disc is not color matched to the dial, and provides the only potential bit of distraction here. The shape and finish of the hands and hour markers offer enough to character to smooth over any misgivings, however.
The Grand Seiko SBGE305 is limited to 1,300 pieces, and will be priced at $6,200. The watch will be available by this June, making it just on time to celebrate its inspiration. Grand Seiko