Grand Seiko: Premiere in Ever-Brilliant Steel

Grand Seiko expands its Heritage Collection with two new models featuring the Hi-Beat 36000 Caliber 9S85 housed in cases crafted from the brand's proprietary Ever-Brilliant Steel. The two new three-hand timepieces are also a stunning celebration of Japan's seasons, with dial designs inspired by the changing landscapes throughout the year.

Since 2019, Grand Seiko's Heritage Collection has included four highly sought-after timepieces, all reflecting the iconic design codes first introduced in 1967 with the 62GS. This model marked a milestone as Grand Seiko's first-ever self-winding watch, and its striking design— defined by the bezel-less case and signature Zaratsu polishing— became an iconic representation of the brand. The 62GS-inspired quartet represents some of Japan’s 24 Sekki, or seasonal periods.

Now, Grand Seiko unveils two new interpretations of Rikka (the transition from spring to summer) and Shūbun (the autumn equinox), with a significant upgrade: the use of Ever-Brilliant Steel. This Grand Seiko alloy is not only more resistant to rust and corrosion, but has a brighter luster that is enhanced by the Zaratsu polishing. This technique accentuates the edges and surfaces of the 40 mm wide and 12.9 mm thick case. In typical Grand Seiko fashion, these models are also water-resistant to 100 meters and protected from magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m.

As with all Grand Seiko timepieces, the brand’s devotion to dial design is evident, as each watch face tells a story deeply rooted in the culture and landscapes of Japan. The SBGH351 is inspired by Rikka, the transition from spring to summer, and features a vibrant green dial that reflects the full, lush beauty of nature in bloom.

On the other hand, the SBGH353 is a tribute to Shūbun, the autumn equinox, with a deep blue dial that evokes the moonlit sky and drifting clouds. Golden accents on the GS logo and the second hand symbolize the moon’s light. Like the SBGH351, the SBGH353 also includes a date display at 3 o'clock.

Both models are powered by the high-frequency Hi-Beat 36000 Caliber 9S85, which offers an impressive 55-hour power reserve and a precision rate of +5 to -3 seconds per day. The fine craftsmanship and detailing of the movement are showcased through the screw-down exhibition case back.

They are are priced at $7,200 and will be available from February 2025.

To learn more, visit Grand Seiko, here.