Grand Seiko - Heritage Collection 44GS SBGW297 and SBGW299

Grand Seiko enriched its Heritage Collection with two 44GS models (SBGW297 / SBGW29) featuring the smallest size of the line: 36.5mm. Price €5,700

Grand Seiko introduced the 44GS in 1967, a model that became the embodiment of the Grand Seiko Style with its distinct case, distortion-free finishing, and captivating dial.

The original Grand Seiko 44GS - 1967

In 2013, Grand Seiko unveiled a modern interpretation of the design, adapting the model from 1967 to contemporary standards and increasing the diameter to 37.9 mm.

More recently, the Japanese watchmaker began introducing models with the smallest case diameter of the series: 36.5 mm. This same size is used for the two latest additions to the Heritage Collection, the 44GS references SBGW297 and SBGW299.

With a thickness of 11.6 mm and a length of 42.7 mm from lug tip to lug tip, the cases of SBGW297 and SBGW299 exhibit proportions more akin to the original 44GS, even tough they are smaller in width and slightly thicker. To achieve this result, every aspect of the case’s construction had to be reconsidered to take full advantage of Grand Seiko’s slim, manual-winding Caliber 9S64.

The case is finished using Grand Seiko’s signature Zaratsu method with mirror-polished planes alternating to other surfaces adorned with Grand Seiko’s hairline finishing technique. Both techniques are manually executed by a dedicated Grand Seiko artisan.

Protected by a box-shaped sapphire crystal, the two dials, white for ref. SBGW297 and dark blue for ref. SBGW299, feature a sunray pattern that creates an appealing interplay of light and shadows.

Hands and multi-faceted indexes have been redesigned to fit the scaled-down dimensions. 

Water resistant to 100 metres / 330 feet, both models are paired with a coordinating stainless steel bracelet. Drilled lug holes and the 18 mm lug width encourage exploration of various leather strap options.

Behind a stainless steel case back with lion emblem, the hand-wound Caliber 9S64 beats at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) movement with a power reserve of 72 hours. The movement is tested in six positions over 17 days — which exceeds the chronometer standard — to comply with the Grand Seiko Standard of -3 to +5 seconds mean daily rate in static conditions. 

The SBGW297 and SBGW299 are both Mastershop models and will be available at Grand Seiko Boutiques and authorized retailers for Euro 5,700 / US$ 5,400 starting November 2023.
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