INTRODUCING: The All-New Grand Seiko SBGD215
We're pretty sure you've never seen a Grand Seiko like this. 148 diamonds, 145 sapphires, and a platinum 950 case combine for the ultimate immersive haute horology experience. And if the optics weren't enough to impress, the mechanical prowess of its Caliber 9R01 Spring Drive movement would be. With a massive 56 jewels and a power reserve of 192 hours (yes, that's over a week), it ticks like a beast. Speaking of a beast, the inspiration for this timepiece was a lion - a symbol the brand has identified with since its first watch in 1960. Introducing Grand Seiko's stunning timepiece, the SBGD215.
THE BASICS:
BRAND: Grand Seiko
Model: SBGD215
Case Material: Platinum 950
Case Size: 44.5mm
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Caliber 9R01; Spring Drive; Manual Winding
Movement Specs: 56 jewels; 192-hour power reserve; 3 barrels
Strap Options: Blue crocodile leather with 3-fold clasp
THE JUICE:
Look closely at Grand Seiko's SBGD215 and you may be able to imagine a white lion atop a mountain covered in ice and snow. Or you may just see an intense level of luxury. With an 18k white gold dial, a Platinum 950 case, and almost 300 stones in between them, it seems appropriate for the brand to dub this as a "horological work of art." Baguette-cut diamonds and blue sapphires are set in tiers or levels on the bezel, outer dial, and lugs.
This timepiece measures in just shy of 45mm in diameter - anything smaller and Grand Seiko would have had to limit the precious stones used or the movement within the watch. It measures with a thickness of 14.4mm but no wearer will mind the thicker size as this timepiece was made to stand out. Only an astute watch collector or haute horologist will wear this masterpiece, partially because of its 6-figure cost and partially because only 8 will ever be made.
At the heart of this metaphorical lion is a powerful movement. The movement was carefully crafted by the Micro Artist Studio - not in the large-quantity manufactures of Grand Seiko's other movements. The Spring Drive movement, like a traditional mechanical movement, is powered by springs within barrels. Instead of the typical single-barrel power, the 9R01 has a series of 3 barrels - a technique that allows for a boast-worthy power reserve of up to 8 days (192 hours).
Grand Seiko does not typically dance in the realm of breathtaking precious metals and stones but this masterpiece shows that the brand is right at home there. Every stone intentionally placed, all materials carefully crafted; all to produce an immersive horological experience while remaining true to its inspiration of the white lion amidst a frozen tundra. If you're one of the lucky 8 horologists who get your hands on one, you will doubtlessly wear it with pride.
How much is the SBGD215 Watch?
Price for Grand Seiko's SBGD215 timepiece will come in at $300,000 USD.
Read more about the watch on the brands website here.