Meet the Tokyo Lion: Grand Seiko Reveals Spring Drive Chronograph GMT


In 2019, Grand Seiko introduced a new sports watch design inspired by the lion, which has been a symbol for the technical prowess of the brand since its introduction in 1960. Now the Japanese luxury brands adds a new member to the collection, the Spring Drive Chronograph GMT. With its sharp, angular edges and bold case, the design of the new series brings a distinct edge to Grand Seiko sports watches.

With an ivory-white patterned dial that is reminiscent of the big cat’s mane, the reference SBGC253 lives up to its name. The expressive texture is combined with wide indexes and a bold hour hand, which are all coated with Lumibrite for readability in the dark. The same rings true for the 24-hour scale on the bezel which helps to indicate the time in a second time zone.

The case is made from Grand Seiko’s High-intensity titanium alloy which is particularly light and robust. Water-resistant to 200 meters, it has a diameter of 44.5mm and is distinguished by the signature hairline finished bold lugs, along with Zaratsu finishing on the sides.

Equipped with a GMT function and a power reserve indicator, the non-limited chronograph is powered by the Spring Drive Caliber 9R86, which offers an accuracy of ±1 second per day and a power reserve of 72 hours. Its top notch finishing quality can be admired through the exhibition case back.

The Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph GMT (ref. SBGC253) will be available starting March 1, 2023 at Grand Seiko authorized stores. Pricing is marked at $12,000.

To learn more, visit Grand Seiko, here.

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  1. Gary Sexton

    Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronographs leave nothing out when it comes to complications. And the designs are as good as it gets. This Lion version is no different and is outstanding. Of course this watch comes with a price and it’s not the dollars, yens, or euros you have to pay. It’s comes down to the size (maybe the next version should be Elephant grey to fit the size) But I would still consider this and am.

    Reply
  2. Gerry Dimatos

    Well I love this piece.. Totally stunning.. It is complicated but it is a GMT Chrono with Date and Spring Drive…
    Having traded my Speedy out the door cause it doesn’t look luxurious enough, and my Daytona just looks too simple this one appeals to me a lot…

    Reply
  3. Justin Boudreau

    No.

    For a Brand that rides itself on their dials…theirs this is a miss. It’s as busy as a Citizen Nighthawk. Put that power reserve in the back, move the sub-dials to where they’re legible at first glance. Keep the date if you must but the rounded pusher tips don’t do with the sharp case. I thought they put Prospex on too many dials…this thing is a big miss.

    Clean it up!!

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  4. This one is too much for me. GMT/Chrono with power reserve on the front? I’ll pass.

    And this is from a prowd owner of a Lake Suwa.

    Reply
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