Since its watches first appeared in the UK in 2009, Grand Seiko’s recognition, not just here but around the world, has skyrocketed.
Even the Swiss, who are fiercely proud of their watchmaking skills, have openly recognised the pure horological genius of Japan’s leading watchmaker.
This year, Grand Seiko has been shortlisted in three categories of the 2022 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) awards.
Promoted as the most prestigious product recognition in the industry, Grand Seiko has described it as “an honour” to be recognised by the GPHG foundation.
The first of Grand Seiko’s GPHG hopefuls is the spectacular Kodo Constant Force Tourbillon which is a finalist in the Tourbillon category.
Taking its name from the Japanese word for heartbeat, this openworked stunner is powered by the Calibre 9ST1 with tourbillon and constant force mechanism on a single axis. Born out of the new Atelier Ginza design studio in Tokyo, the watch has been realised by Grand Seiko Takumi artisans.
In the Diver’s Watch category, the ‘Ushio Tide’ Spring Drive 5 Day Calibre 9RA5 from the Evolution 9 collection stakes its claim for best underwater watch of 2022.
Representing Grand Seiko’s mechanical reliability, the proprietary hybrid movement has 120 hours of power reserve and boasts an accuracy of 10 seconds per month.
The watch’s precision is matched by GS’s unique artistic edge, the gentle ripples of the textured dial being reminiscent of the ocean’s currents.
Finally, in the Petite Aiguille category for watches with a retail price between CHF 3,500 and CHF 10,000, the Grand Seiko ‘Mistflake’ Spring Drive GMT 9R66 is nominated.
Again powered by a Spring Drive movement – this time the GMT 9R66 – the hour-setting function allows local time to be changed without affecting the precision of the watch.
As with all Grand Seiko watches, it is inspired by Japanese nature, specifically the mountain mist around the Grand Seiko Shinshu watch studio.
Although subject to change, plans are in place to bring all three timepieces to WATCHPRO Salon in November.
WATCHPRO Salon 2022 exhibitors and partners
WATCHPRO Salon is a showcase of prestige watchmakers where collectors, brands, retailers and press meet in 5-star luxury.
Back for a second time after a sensational debut in 2021, the two-day event takes place from November 11 to 12 at The Londoner, one of the capital’s most spectacular 5-star hotels on London’s Leicester Square.
Exhibitors & Partners at WATCHPRO Salon 2022:
