Grand Seiko and The Watches of Switzerland Group have collaborated on a unique watch that will only be available exclusively through Watches of Switzerland stores and websites in the UK and United States.
The two companies have also revealed they are discussing the opening of a branded boutique in New York.
In a Zoom press conference to announce the launch of a Grand Seiko x The Watches of Switzerland Group special edition GMT automatic, David Hurley, executive vice-president for WOSG in the United States, said the retail group “would love to open a Grand Seiko boutique, hopefully in New York”.
Brian Duffy, chief executive of WOSG, said that the group is a strong believer in opening monobrand stores where customers see a complete representation of the brand. “Grand Seiko is a really strong brand, so why not?” he added.
In the making of the Grand Seiko x The Watches of Switzerland Group special edition GMT automatic, the companies set out to make a watch with DNA from both Japan and Britain, home of The Watches of Switzerland Group.
It has a sunray Mount Iwate-textured British Racing Green dial with an inner 24 hour GMT ring.
The name 峠 (Tōgè), is Japanese for a mountain pass.
It is not strictly a limited edition, but will be made in very limited quantities. It goes on sale in July for £5,200.
Its 39.5mm circular steel case with sapphire glass front and back houses Grand Seiko’s Caliber 9S66 automatic GMT movement with date.
It is worn on a crocodile leather strap.
Grand Seiko and Watches of Switzerland will both promote the watch with a new augmented reality feature on their Instagram feeds.
