IMHO, this is minimalism and elegance executed perfectly. I’ve been offered one in pristine condition and I’m seriously considering it. This is the only GS that sings to me.
I own this ref along with 4 other Grand Seiko models. My watch collection includes dozens of "haute horology" pieces from all the major players including some prominent independent makers. This particular piece is a pure joy to wear.
Regrets: Almost all "affordable" watches. But there was no way I could've learned that lesson without lighting cash on fire in the form $300-500 watches with zero value retention that always felt like a copy of something else, or a compromise, or an homage to what I really wanted. Much better to have one $3000 watch than ten $300 ones. And the quality difference is so staggering that you most likely will never drop less than 2k on a watch new again. Don't waste money on "affordable" things! Just own less, but more high quality stuff!
That's probably because you bought them from garbage brands like Daniel Wellington or they had quartz movement. Good $300 watches have a decent resale value.
I do agree to your philosophy of owning less but with better quality (to a certain extent). However, that also means not being able to have a wider selection or genre of watches and therefore lesser fun of being able to switch around wearing different watches on certain days.
@@jackwilson5542 EXACTLY, do your research before buying watches and buy at the right price and time. I bought a Seiko SKX013 5 years ago for AU$300. Now they are discontinued and a brand new cost at least $700 so I will highly make a profit or at least still break even if I decide to sell mine.
I sold a datejust, a speedmaster and a seamaster, and my cheap watch collection is ever growing. I still keep my two Grand Seikos though. My cheap watch collection ranges from Seiko 5s to a Chinese tourbillon. I'm totally happy with all of them.
@@rajmehta6210 The GS was easy since i have bought 8 GS since Jan 2020fom the same AD. The Rolex watches are more difficult but since i buy other watches from the Rolex AD they have no choice but sell me what i want from Rolex but keep in mind i cant pick up 10 hard to get watches a year either. But forget Rolex watches. Try to get H.Moser because this brand will be extremely hot in the next 5 years.
I bought the 231 after seeing your video, I love the calatravas 5127g (5196 also very nice) and vintage omega seamasters / connie's. The 231 is like a love child of the two but better looking, finished, no date, no vintage headaches and just so happens to be a bargain.
Wonderful, mercifully underhyped GS. I've had one for about a year and a half now, usually worn daily on a less formal strap. The facets of the indexes are so perfectly flat and mirror-like they don't sparkle so much as appear to be tiny glitches in the fabric of space and time. Absolutely mesmerizing in such a simple, pure timepiece.
My regret, I did not get a GS sooner. I have missed out on a few stunning models. However I am proud to say I have finally started on the collection. Absolutely love them. Pure Quality
Gorgeous watch. Even better in the flesh. I just collected my SLGH005, aka the White Birch. Simply stunning in every way. Case, hands, markers. Then there's the awesome dial, where the watch gets its name from. Truly in a class of its own. Plus the new, 80 hr High Beat movement. A future classic. I haven't worn it out yet.. I just put it on my wrist and admire it. Don't why to scratch it too soon. That's what happens to my 2 tone Daytona. The gold scratches so easily.
I’ve sold 2 grand seikos over the years, an sbge255 and an sbga029 diver. I’ve regretted letting go of them both, especially the diver. My snowflake isn’t going anywhere though, permanent spot in the collection.
It just is pure class. For my taste a bit to elegant, but still a beauty. This is Patek level, the polish is superb. Can understand you regret selling it. Well I did sell my 116613LB Aral dial as I got the 116618. The 116613 was produced just for a short time without a sunburst dial. It was well made but somehow lusted for full gold, just to find out that that just was too much. So yeah, I regret selling my 116613. Awesome video bro keep it up 🙏🏻👍🏻
@@watchcollectingstrategy Wow I think I have a new watch that I would live to get. With this Grand Seiko you get that connection to the first Grand Seiko all the way back in 1960
I went up to four GS watches the SBGN009, the SBKG005, the SBGM221 and the SBGA229. I sold or traded all but the SBGA229 which turned out to be both my favorite GS and my favorite diver. I liked the SBKG005 which had the blue Mt. Itawe dial but I had two Parmigianis and I rated them above the GS pieces in terms of horology and construction. This is no slam of GS but just the reality of what can and cannot be done on the cost budget for the manufacture of the SBKG005 in comparison to the cost budget for the manufacture of the two Parmigianis, I would recommend GS to anyone. I do not buy my first Seiko diver until after I owned the four GSs and I would recommend certain Seiko references to anyone as well. My big watch regret was selling my stainless steel Ploprof 1200M on the shark mesh bracelet. I pined away for two years and recently went into an Omega boutique to replace it with the titanium iteration. I tried it on and I immediately relived why I sold it. The Ploprof was too large to wear on an everyday basis. It taught me to realize that if you have sold a watch do not revisit the decision. It would be like reuniting with an ex-girlfriend or ex-wife. You would quickly realize why you split in the first place and that you cannot second guess yourself,
@@watchcollectingstrategy I bought the stainless steel Transforma chronograph and a rose gold Kalpa Grande. I am a big Parmigiani fan. The brand has not always had a big presence but I would go into the local Patek dealer and never walked out feeling that I was cheated by only owning Parmigianis instead of PPs. Guido Terreni, the former President of Bulgari, just came in as the Parmigiani CEO and Parmigiani is finally expanding their AD network in the US. I think that Parmigiani is intending to push its way forward.
All SBGW watches are all amazing. I have the burgundy and the sky blue ones in my collection and wear them quite often. Quality and understated style. Fantastic value!
Biggest regret purchasing was a $150 Fossil, I appreciate that it was my first watch that I purchased for myself with my own money, and it made me realize what I liked and disliked in watch design, and I guess my regrets were mostly watches that I gifted away that I really wish I had kept because they are either incredibly hard to come by now or I'm no longer in contact with that person whom I gifted it to
I’ve been looking at Tudor’s but their quality control suffers, looked at this watch at the AD and was amazed. A little too formal but still very tempted. I have a 40 year old mechanical diver that has never been serviced and still runs great. Bought it as a 20 year old. I guess I’m a fan of the brand. 🙏
This watch is perfect, period. I’m always excited to see a Grand Seiko in the wild than any Rolex, when someone bought and wears a Grand Seiko, you know that he/she knows watches and cares about quality and value.
@@rayleeaustralia base on your comment I assumed you think that a quartz watches is less sophisticated a mechanical watch. It’s not true, there are cheap quartz watches and there are also cheap mechanical watches. However GS’s quartz is different level from what you might think. All their quartz crystals were aged for 3 months and only the high quality quartz will be used for production. This aging process is one of the key factor why GS Calibre 9F is as accurate as +-10s per year. By the way their quartz movement is highly decorated too. Secondly, Spring Drive is not a pure quartz movement, yes it uses quartz oscillator to transmit a precise reference and it also uses main spring to power the watch. It’s the best of both worlds, you have a extremely precise movement and you don’t need to change a battery. There are no other brands using Spring Drive movement and its invention is definitely a horological milestone. Mechanical watches are over hyped nowadays, brands are producing cheap movements and charge a premium because it’s ‘mechanical’. Don’t buy into that bs and look for quality and innovative products
@@actnaturally388 thank you. It’s most educational. I only buy watches that have some substance to it. Like AP, Lange, Rolex, JLC, Omega and GS Peacock is on my radar. Yes spring drive is innovative but it just doesn’t mean much to me. Personally. If I want accuracy, I have my iPhone
@@rayleeaustralia haha ofcoz, all luxury watches are jewelry! The reverso is 90 this year looking forward for how JLC gonna celebrates it! Have a good day
I have the sibling watch- sbgw235- and I absolutely love. I like the beads of rice bracelet as it wears very similar to a vintage datejust (really comfortable). It’s a watch I wear daily and despite being dressy it’s also very versatile as you say- I will wear it on a perlon or orange suede strap in the summer and the thickness helps it stay casual without being crazy thick.
I owned the calatrava and this, and, l agree with your comments. I like ALS, but, can you find one manual wind 3 hands to compare? Or from patek for that matter. People are so caught up with small sec hand, that they forget that, in horology, there's something called a true 3 hands watch. It has to be manual wind with long minute hand and, better still, an even longer sec hand. This long sec hand is called the 3rd hand, thus 3 hands. The 9s64 not only has that, but runs at 4 hz with 72 hrs power reserve. Try to scout for one anywhere else and see. In the watchfinder's latest video, he said that the GS finishing is the best that he has seen. Of course, in this case he was referring to the exterior ( not the Movement), at that price point. Hei, that guy has seen more than most people, and, in macro. In Tim's latest video, the he differentiated GS made in the micro artist studio where the Movements are also handmade and the std ones. The watchfinder is in awe with the 9SA5 Movement. He said that it will take sometime for him to fully understand this new innovation. So, far, no one, for some reason, has taken the opportunity to compare this Movement, especially, the escapement with the swiss counterparts, when comparing the watches. AB, would care to be the 1st? Jack Forster did write extensively about it, and that's much appreciated.
Mine 231 is arriving tomorrow and I´m very happy guy.The first thing is to put another strap,wanting to have more casual,less formal look.Very nice review.
I have the SBGM221. I absolutely adore it. The SBGW231 is a stunning piece of watch design and you are right to feel remorse for having parted with it. I tried 'one watch per brand' collecting in the past.........I don't think it's a good idea.
My one regret is not buying a watch that was offered to me 10 years ago. It was a Rolex platinum Daytona that an AD had in stock. At that time Retail was about A$62,000 which was around US$43,000. Two reasons why I hadn’t bought it. Seemed a lot of money at the time but the main reason was that I didn’t like the combination of the dial and bezel.
The 5196g is my dream watch Out of my reach though So I was examining the sbgw231 as a potential alternative Looks that it will absolutely do the job , I’m still a bit afraid of the thickness compared to the Patek but I believe in person it won’t show non elegant because of its thickness I’m probably buying it
No doubt the SBGW231 is a true beauty. However, I don't like the high maintenance cost of mechanical watches, so I bought an SBGX295 instead. Like SBGW231, the Grand Seiko SBGX295 is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, encapsulating the brand's commitment to exceptional design and unmatched craftsmanship. Its white dial and black leather strap exude a timeless charm that complements any attire, making it a versatile addition to any collection. The precision of the 9F62 quartz movement, combined with the meticulous attention to detail in its construction, sets this watch apart as a paragon of horological excellence. Truly, the SBGX295 embodies the philosophy that true beauty lies in simplicity and unparalleled quality.
Regret selling - Hamilton Khaki X Wind automatic chronograph. (but sold it to get my Aquis, which I love) Regret buying - Seiko Flightmaster (believed the TGV hype, and it was awful) That GS is pretty close to perfection, amazing how much better they look without the date! Prefer the GS automatics over the spring drives myself. Cheers mate 👍🏻👍🏻
Lots of watches I’ve had and sold then regretted. These days I’d rather want them then have them. Watch collecting is a rich man’s game, flipping is a fools game. Buy what you love and live with it. That GS is a life time piece.
Love this watch, so simple yet elegant looking. I hope Grand Seiko does not raise its prices like Rolex when I can already afford one. This will be my gift to myself when I'm already successful hahah
If only was it quartz or spring drive... This is what I love - simple, beautiful silver dial without unnecessary distortions like date, power reserve and so on.
I sold an Omega AT around 2006 for about £450. Beautiful watch but at the time I just needed the money. Now the same one would cost me £1850-2000. It actually puts me off buying a new one as it would feel like a waste (if that makes sense).
There's just something about Grand Seiko that's hard to pass by. I really love my Saxonia Thin, but I just keep coming back to reviews of this model. Both are perfect designs of understated elegance and minimalism.
Yeah, this is a bargin but the sax seems better on every level, the hands, dial light play, markers, finish, case, and most over all the movement. Two different leagues, both at the top of them
@@Jay-xr3sb Yes, very true on all points. I think the Saxonia is very versatile in white gold. The option of a brown vs black strap really changes the character of the watch. It is by far a great value in Lange's offerings.
@@markn3586 indeed, your correct on the sax versatility. My logic is, as its a premium handwound watch I doubt it would be a daily for me. In which case it could be my one classic gold dress watch that could be worn on a occasion. Its so understand that the rose gold would add that extra element of interest and I'd hope the warn hue would have and warming effect on the dial. I think it would work on black or a chocolate brown strap as well, not really a fan of the reddish brown they have on release. Tc
I agree about PP. It is too expensive and too hyped. PP is great, fantastic, but not so good as their asking price, at least for basic chronometers and chronographs. Complications are another story.
I am looking this really great video while waiting for mine to arrive. If everything goes by plan, I will pick it up on Monday at my watchmaker's store. I like your videos and your style pal, I came for the SBGW231 vid and I stayed for more 😉
I really wanted SBGR305 (basically this watch in a bigger size with Spring Drive, a date window and a power reserve indicator), but Spring Drive models are too thick for me. I got this SBGW231 instead. No regrets. The dial is somewhat bland but that's how a dress watch is supposed to be. And I agree that Calatrava 5196 is underwhelming. If you want that watch, you should look at JLC Master Control Ultra Thin first.
beautiful watch--i'm looking for a daily, this seems a little too nice but idk--beautiful! my pride and joy is my grandfathers 1962 omega seamaster--this seiko has that same classy style
Hi AB, although I may never be able to fully appreciate or comprehend the Japanese sense of proportion, the results and feedback seemingly speak for themselves - even in price points under Grand Seiko. It just irks me a lot that one of the common complaints you hear from some "armchair watch experts" is "too thick!", and you get the impression that they say this even if: 1) they haven't tried the watch on yet, and; 2) they apply conventional standards to a watch from a company that is anything BUT. That being said, however, I think it takes a very specific (and sort of niche) customer to appreciate GS. Unfortunately, it isn't for everybody.
To answer your question, I regret not buying the previous JLC Master Chronograph 1538420 before it was phased out - that was the close to the perfect watch for me. But I just disn't have the money at that time.
To me, the SBGW231 is simpler, more elegant, and more beautiful than the Snowflake and White Birch. I too would rather have this watch. My only issue is with all Grand Seiko watches. Look at the GS and Grand Seiko logos on the dial. There are two different fonts used, one for the GS and a different font for Grand Seiko. These two fonts are similar but different. They clash. It's like scratching on the chalkboard. No self-respecting type designer would approve. Unfortunately, issues such as these will keep Grand Seiko from reaching the heights of, for example, A. Lange & Sohne. Every detail matters.
What's great more about GS is another model with a spring drive technology.. the second hand movement is damn smooth.. that's the best Japanese watch I've ever seen after Casio Oceanus
I would regret buying that watch. All that money, and no date, no lume, and manual wind. I can hear my dear old mum now, "a fool and his money are soon parted."
I regret selling my Omega Seamaster “The Pierce Brosnan Bond era” due to economical condition...and nowadays buying an Omega Seamaster is expensive...instead I bought a Seiko SRPD63K1 and it’s just not the same “aura” as the Omega...Looking at the new lines of Omega Seamaster at the moment...😱 So I regret buying the Seiko SRPD63K1...instead I bought another Seiko SPB053J1...and saving for the right moment to buy an Omega Seamaster 😍👍🏻
I regret selling an eight-day (!) minute repeater (18k hunter case, retailed in Bombay, Marcks& Co, raw movement made allegedly by Audemars) on three (!) gongs. This watch had a special train and small balance to make it run eight days. A minute repeater with this feature is rare, but a minute repeater eight-day on three gongs is even rarer. Just find a single one of these ever again.
My best hand winding experience is Longines Charles Lindbergh replica, sounds softer than this GrandSeiko. I have worn for several years and came to the conclusion, not my best watch. 1. Leather straps worn out quickly and isn't comfortable with humid places. 2. Water Resistance is too low. 3. No lume indecies. I like this SBGW231, too and almost any of very simple dress watches. This one is probably the best from Seiko.
I regret purchasing the Seiko King Samurai. It runs 20 seconds fast per day. Every Sunday I have to re-adjust it for the almost 4 minutes that it gained in the week. How can such an expensive watch have such poor quality control? My solar Casio Oceanus T200 is beautiful, I never have to touch it, it is always within 1/100th of one second from the actual time (adjusts via satellite), has perpetual calendar and I can even ring my phone if I have miss-placed it with a button in the watch.
One watch per brand.......my rule now as well, though I still have two Dan Henrys and, technically, two Seikos (one a Seiko 5 & the other a Wired digital). Now I have to decide which of the two to get rid of.
IMHO, this is minimalism and elegance executed perfectly. I’ve been offered one in pristine condition and I’m seriously considering it. This is the only GS that sings to me.
True. I love simple designs. They are timeless. Reminds me of the vintage King Seikos.
GS is just another seikos,, and theya re not too much different,,
hi beat garbage
Quite possibly one of the most flawless watches I have ever seen, I always keep this one on my sights.
I agree! It is incredible to see under macro
@@watchcollectingstrategy I been thinking of getting the double logo one because you can get them under 3k and I do not mind the double logo.
@@elefantrising Me too, there is one I have my eyes on that is very limited and extremely beautiful
Same
Flawless my ass it doesnt even have lume lmfao 😂 weak
I own this ref along with 4 other Grand Seiko models. My watch collection includes dozens
of "haute horology" pieces from all the major players including some prominent independent makers. This particular piece is a pure joy to wear.
Regrets: Almost all "affordable" watches. But there was no way I could've learned that lesson without lighting cash on fire in the form $300-500 watches with zero value retention that always felt like a copy of something else, or a compromise, or an homage to what I really wanted. Much better to have one $3000 watch than ten $300 ones. And the quality difference is so staggering that you most likely will never drop less than 2k on a watch new again. Don't waste money on "affordable" things! Just own less, but more high quality stuff!
That's probably because you bought them from garbage brands like Daniel Wellington or they had quartz movement. Good $300 watches have a decent resale value.
I do agree to your philosophy of owning less but with better quality (to a certain extent). However, that also means not being able to have a wider selection or genre of watches and therefore lesser fun of being able to switch around wearing different watches on certain days.
@@jackwilson5542 EXACTLY, do your research before buying watches and buy at the right price and time. I bought a Seiko SKX013 5 years ago for AU$300. Now they are discontinued and a brand new cost at least $700 so I will highly make a profit or at least still break even if I decide to sell mine.
I sold a datejust, a speedmaster and a seamaster, and my cheap watch collection is ever growing. I still keep my two Grand Seikos though. My cheap watch collection ranges from Seiko 5s to a Chinese tourbillon. I'm totally happy with all of them.
The old Prince / King Charles maxim - ‘Buy once, buy _well’_ . . .
Just picked up mine 3 days ago and i still cant take my eye off the damn thing. Truly a piece of art
@@blueslime1703 I know it hurts but try not be jealous and one day you could own one as well
Considering picking this up, best price I've found in the UK is around 3.3k
@@rajmehta6210 I paid $5000 CAD including 13% tax
@@rajmehta6210 The GS was easy since i have bought 8 GS since Jan 2020fom the same AD. The Rolex watches are more difficult but since i buy other watches from the Rolex AD they have no choice but sell me what i want from Rolex but keep in mind i cant pick up 10 hard to get watches a year either. But forget Rolex watches. Try to get H.Moser because this brand will be extremely hot in the next 5 years.
I have this watch. It is brilliant and elegant in every way.
I bought the 231 after seeing your video, I love the calatravas 5127g (5196 also very nice) and vintage omega seamasters / connie's. The 231 is like a love child of the two but better looking, finished, no date, no vintage headaches and just so happens to be a bargain.
Wonderful, mercifully underhyped GS. I've had one for about a year and a half now, usually worn daily on a less formal strap. The facets of the indexes are so perfectly flat and mirror-like they don't sparkle so much as appear to be tiny glitches in the fabric of space and time. Absolutely mesmerizing in such a simple, pure timepiece.
My regret, I did not get a GS sooner. I have missed out on a few stunning models. However I am proud to say I have finally started on the collection. Absolutely love them. Pure Quality
which did you miss out? and what do you have now?
@@adamzhou8395 whirlpool for a starter. And even the existing line up such as the shosho has gone up massively since launch.
Thats 1 of the best watches i ever seen, forget all your flashy diamonds clustered all around the dial , that is how a watch should look .
Gorgeous watch. Even better in the flesh. I just collected my SLGH005, aka the White Birch. Simply stunning in every way. Case, hands, markers. Then there's the awesome dial, where the watch gets its name from. Truly in a class of its own. Plus the new, 80 hr High Beat movement. A future classic. I haven't worn it out yet.. I just put it on my wrist and admire it. Don't why to scratch it too soon. That's what happens to my 2 tone Daytona. The gold scratches so easily.
That is beautiful. So pure and simple.
I’ve sold 2 grand seikos over the years, an sbge255 and an sbga029 diver. I’ve regretted letting go of them both, especially the diver. My snowflake isn’t going anywhere though, permanent spot in the collection.
Don't keep reminding the old watches,
Rather Do what they do,
Move On,
Many new moments are waiting for you.
---Seriously it is one of my favs to.
It just is pure class. For my taste a bit to elegant, but still a beauty. This is Patek level, the polish is superb. Can understand you regret selling it.
Well I did sell my 116613LB Aral dial as I got the 116618. The 116613 was produced just for a short time without a sunburst dial. It was well made but somehow lusted for full gold, just to find out that that just was too much. So yeah, I regret selling my 116613.
Awesome video bro keep it up 🙏🏻👍🏻
Appreciate the support bro!
@@watchcollectingstrategy Wow I think I have a new watch that I would live to get. With this Grand Seiko you get that connection to the first Grand Seiko all the way back in 1960
This is a piece of gem. This Grand Seiko SBGW231 is the one I would keep forever as dress watch. It’s thin, simple elegant and classy.
But its not that thin right? For the proprotions of the watch?
As usual, your photography is mesmerizing. Beautiful. Thank you.
The color of that dial is beeeautiful! It’s like eggshell/ soft creamy off-white is insane. My god it’s beautiful!!
It even has a watermark.
I went up to four GS watches the SBGN009, the SBKG005, the SBGM221 and the SBGA229. I sold or traded all but the SBGA229 which turned out to be both my favorite GS and my favorite diver. I liked the SBKG005 which had the blue Mt. Itawe dial but I had two Parmigianis and I rated them above the GS pieces in terms of horology and construction. This is no slam of GS but just the reality of what can and cannot be done on the cost budget for the manufacture of the SBKG005 in comparison to the cost budget for the manufacture of the two Parmigianis, I would recommend GS to anyone. I do not buy my first Seiko diver until after I owned the four GSs and I would recommend certain Seiko references to anyone as well. My big watch regret was selling my stainless steel Ploprof 1200M on the shark mesh bracelet. I pined away for two years and recently went into an Omega boutique to replace it with the titanium iteration. I tried it on and I immediately relived why I sold it. The Ploprof was too large to wear on an everyday basis. It taught me to realize that if you have sold a watch do not revisit the decision. It would be like reuniting with an ex-girlfriend or ex-wife. You would quickly realize why you split in the first place and that you cannot second guess yourself,
Which Parmigiani did you get? Love the brand!
@@watchcollectingstrategy I bought the stainless steel Transforma chronograph and a rose gold Kalpa Grande. I am a big Parmigiani fan. The brand has not always had a big presence but I would go into the local Patek dealer and never walked out feeling that I was cheated by only owning Parmigianis instead of PPs. Guido Terreni, the former President of Bulgari, just came in as the Parmigiani CEO and Parmigiani is finally expanding their AD network in the US. I think that Parmigiani is intending to push its way forward.
All SBGW watches are all amazing. I have the burgundy and the sky blue ones in my collection and wear them quite often. Quality and understated style. Fantastic value!
Biggest regret purchasing was a $150 Fossil, I appreciate that it was my first watch that I purchased for myself with my own money, and it made me realize what I liked and disliked in watch design, and I guess my regrets were mostly watches that I gifted away that I really wish I had kept because they are either incredibly hard to come by now or I'm no longer in contact with that person whom I gifted it to
It is nice seeing it with no other wording other than the brand. Looks very clean. I love the spring drive but not the power reserve indicator.
I’ve been looking at Tudor’s but their quality control suffers, looked at this watch at the AD and was amazed. A little too formal but still very tempted. I have a 40 year old mechanical diver that has never been serviced and still runs great. Bought it as a 20 year old. I guess I’m a fan of the brand. 🙏
Opted for this Grand Seiko over an Omega Railmaster, haven't yetreceived it yet, but your video is reassuring that I made the right choice, thanks!
Get the SBGW235, the Japan edition. That one is even better than the 231!
This watch is perfect, period.
I’m always excited to see a Grand Seiko in the wild than any Rolex, when someone bought and wears a Grand Seiko, you know that he/she knows watches and cares about quality and value.
Except the Snowflake I’d say. After all it’s really a quartz watch
@@rayleeaustralia base on your comment I assumed you think that a quartz watches is less sophisticated a mechanical watch. It’s not true, there are cheap quartz watches and there are also cheap mechanical watches.
However GS’s quartz is different level from what you might think. All their quartz crystals were aged for 3 months and only the high quality quartz will be used for production. This aging process is one of the key factor why GS Calibre 9F is as accurate as +-10s per year. By the way their quartz movement is highly decorated too.
Secondly, Spring Drive is not a pure quartz movement, yes it uses quartz oscillator to transmit a precise reference and it also uses main spring to power the watch. It’s the best of both worlds, you have a extremely precise movement and you don’t need to change a battery. There are no other brands using Spring Drive movement and its invention is definitely a horological milestone.
Mechanical watches are over hyped nowadays, brands are producing cheap movements and charge a premium because it’s ‘mechanical’. Don’t buy into that bs and look for quality and innovative products
@@actnaturally388 thank you. It’s most educational. I only buy watches that have some substance to it. Like AP, Lange, Rolex, JLC, Omega and GS Peacock is on my radar. Yes spring drive is innovative but it just doesn’t mean much to me. Personally. If I want accuracy, I have my iPhone
@@rayleeaustralia haha ofcoz, all luxury watches are jewelry! The reverso is 90 this year looking forward for how JLC gonna celebrates it! Have a good day
@@actnaturally388 yes you are absolutely right. My watch is my jewellery piece. I don’t wear rings nor necklaces so that’s it. You too have a good day
I have the sibling watch- sbgw235- and I absolutely love. I like the beads of rice bracelet as it wears very similar to a vintage datejust (really comfortable). It’s a watch I wear daily and despite being dressy it’s also very versatile as you say- I will wear it on a perlon or orange suede strap in the summer and the thickness helps it stay casual without being crazy thick.
I owned the calatrava and this, and, l agree with your comments. I like ALS, but, can you find one manual wind 3 hands to compare? Or from patek for that matter. People are so caught up with small sec hand, that they forget that, in horology, there's something called a true 3 hands watch. It has to be manual wind with long minute hand and, better still, an even longer sec hand. This long sec hand is called the 3rd hand, thus 3 hands. The 9s64 not only has that, but runs at 4 hz with 72 hrs power reserve. Try to scout for one anywhere else and see.
In the watchfinder's latest video, he said that the GS finishing is the best that he has seen. Of course, in this case he was referring to the exterior ( not the Movement), at that price point. Hei, that guy has seen more than most people, and, in macro. In Tim's latest video, the he differentiated GS made in the micro artist studio where the Movements are also handmade and the std ones.
The watchfinder is in awe with the 9SA5 Movement. He said that it will take sometime for him to fully understand this new innovation. So, far, no one, for some reason, has taken the opportunity to compare this Movement, especially, the escapement with the swiss counterparts, when comparing the watches. AB, would care to be the 1st?
Jack Forster did write extensively about it, and that's much appreciated.
i traded up from a Nomos Tangente to obtain this watch. It is on a brown strap and is my absolute favorite watch, ever.
Mine 231 is arriving tomorrow and I´m very happy guy.The first thing is to put another strap,wanting to have more casual,less formal look.Very nice review.
I have the SBGM221. I absolutely adore it. The SBGW231 is a stunning piece of watch design and you are right to feel remorse for having parted with it. I tried 'one watch per brand' collecting in the past.........I don't think it's a good idea.
I have the spring drive date variant of this watch... the SBGA293. It will never leave my collection.
My one regret is not buying a watch that was offered to me 10 years ago. It was a Rolex platinum Daytona that an AD had in stock. At that time Retail was about A$62,000 which was around US$43,000. Two reasons why I hadn’t bought it. Seemed a lot of money at the time but the main reason was that I didn’t like the combination of the dial and bezel.
"One brand per watch" - such an easy rule to live by! 😅 You made a peculiar Freudian slip, there.
The 5196g is my dream watch
Out of my reach though
So I was examining the sbgw231 as a potential alternative
Looks that it will absolutely do the job , I’m still a bit afraid of the thickness compared to the Patek but I believe in person it won’t show non elegant because of its thickness
I’m probably buying it
No doubt the SBGW231 is a true beauty. However, I don't like the high maintenance cost of mechanical watches, so I bought an SBGX295 instead. Like SBGW231, the Grand Seiko SBGX295 is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, encapsulating the brand's commitment to exceptional design and unmatched craftsmanship. Its white dial and black leather strap exude a timeless charm that complements any attire, making it a versatile addition to any collection. The precision of the 9F62 quartz movement, combined with the meticulous attention to detail in its construction, sets this watch apart as a paragon of horological excellence. Truly, the SBGX295 embodies the philosophy that true beauty lies in simplicity and unparalleled quality.
Truly the most beautiful watch I’ve ever seen.
I have an 8 inch wrist, and it fits perfectly. Thanks for the review. One of the video's that made me buy this watch.
Great video, beautiful watch, thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching Scott!
Regret selling - Hamilton Khaki X Wind automatic chronograph. (but sold it to get my Aquis, which I love)
Regret buying - Seiko Flightmaster (believed the TGV hype, and it was awful)
That GS is pretty close to perfection, amazing how much better they look without the date! Prefer the GS automatics over the spring drives myself.
Cheers mate 👍🏻👍🏻
Great purchase on the Aquis! I agree, the Flight Master was a bit too hyped.
Still one of my favorite GS..
Thanks for your most beautiful presentation. One of the best out there. Of course it helps you have a most beautiful watch in the GS 👍
Man this video was amazing!
Really a special piece.
Wow what a beauty! Love the simplicity yet elegant design! Too bad for you!
Lots of watches I’ve had and sold then regretted. These days I’d rather want them then have them. Watch collecting is a rich man’s game, flipping is a fools game. Buy what you love and live with it. That GS is a life time piece.
I have far too many watch regrets to mention here! Beautiful watch and thanks for bringing to my attention
"One of the smoothest and nicest movements"
Springdrive has entered the chat
Love this watch, so simple yet elegant looking. I hope Grand Seiko does not raise its prices like Rolex when I can already afford one. This will be my gift to myself when I'm already successful hahah
If only was it quartz or spring drive... This is what I love - simple, beautiful silver dial without unnecessary distortions like date, power reserve and so on.
I have one quartz (grand seiko too) and 11 automatiques. But I look forward to welcome this manual wind in the collection!
Regret selling my Omega Aqua Terra from 2003 in perfect condition. First edition. Black dial.....I needed the money, but was a shame. What a beauty
I sold an Omega AT around 2006 for about £450. Beautiful watch but at the time I just needed the money. Now the same one would cost me £1850-2000.
It actually puts me off buying a new one as it would feel like a waste (if that makes sense).
I am SOLD ! :-D you introduiced and reviewed this watch so well ! Thank you for the sharing ! Beautiful piece !
That watch is classic looking
Agreed! Seems a bit nostalgic even tho it is new
Looking forward to have one... Was hesitating with the sbga 283...but this thing seems to be a watch for life.
There's just something about Grand Seiko that's hard to pass by. I really love my Saxonia Thin, but I just keep coming back to reviews of this model. Both are perfect designs of understated elegance and minimalism.
Yeah, this is a bargin but the sax seems better on every level, the hands, dial light play, markers, finish, case, and most over all the movement.
Two different leagues, both at the top of them
@@Jay-xr3sb Yes, very true on all points. I think the Saxonia is very versatile in white gold. The option of a brown vs black strap really changes the character of the watch. It is by far a great value in Lange's offerings.
@@markn3586 indeed, your correct on the sax versatility. My logic is, as its a premium handwound watch I doubt it would be a daily for me. In which case it could be my one classic gold dress watch that could be worn on a occasion. Its so understand that the rose gold would add that extra element of interest and I'd hope the warn hue would have and warming effect on the dial.
I think it would work on black or a chocolate brown strap as well, not really a fan of the reddish brown they have on release.
Tc
I agree about PP. It is too expensive and too hyped. PP is great, fantastic, but not so good as their asking price, at least for basic chronometers and chronographs. Complications are another story.
It’s really a very beautiful piece
I am looking this really great video while waiting for mine to arrive. If everything goes by plan, I will pick it up on Monday at my watchmaker's store.
I like your videos and your style pal, I came for the SBGW231 vid and I stayed for more 😉
I actually have quite a few watch I regret purchasing cause I was dumb, I bought 6 watches in a span of 1 year
I’ve regretted buying all of my watches at times, but never sold any of them :-)
if they use the Spring Drive movement in this watch, would it make it a perfect watch?
I really like Grand Seiko, beautiful piece
I have a King Seiko...I'd love to own that GS...its Elegant and Flawless at the Same time.
お金を貯めて買う予定です。
キレイですね。
Thanks for watching!
I really wanted SBGR305 (basically this watch in a bigger size with Spring Drive, a date window and a power reserve indicator), but Spring Drive models are too thick for me. I got this SBGW231 instead. No regrets. The dial is somewhat bland but that's how a dress watch is supposed to be.
And I agree that Calatrava 5196 is underwhelming. If you want that watch, you should look at JLC Master Control Ultra Thin first.
beautiful watch--i'm looking for a daily, this seems a little too nice but idk--beautiful! my pride and joy is my grandfathers 1962 omega seamaster--this seiko has that same classy style
Hi AB, although I may never be able to fully appreciate or comprehend the Japanese sense of proportion, the results and feedback seemingly speak for themselves - even in price points under Grand Seiko.
It just irks me a lot that one of the common complaints you hear from some "armchair watch experts" is "too thick!", and you get the impression that they say this even if:
1) they haven't tried the watch on yet, and;
2) they apply conventional standards to a watch from a company that is anything BUT.
That being said, however, I think it takes a very specific (and sort of niche) customer to appreciate GS. Unfortunately, it isn't for everybody.
Great video. You might even have the magic touch to sell a Hublot to a watch snob.
This is my idea of a perfect watch. It holds pure beauty and elegance through perfect simplicity
To answer your question, I regret not buying the previous JLC Master Chronograph 1538420 before it was phased out - that was the close to the perfect watch for me. But I just disn't have the money at that time.
I love it! Stunning. Beautifully filmed, too!
I have a few GS and this is my favorite.
Beautiful
Agreed! Thanks for watching
To me, the SBGW231 is simpler, more elegant, and more beautiful than the Snowflake and White Birch. I too would rather have this watch. My only issue is with all Grand Seiko watches. Look at the GS and Grand Seiko logos on the dial. There are two different fonts used, one for the GS and a different font for Grand Seiko. These two fonts are similar but different. They clash. It's like scratching on the chalkboard. No self-respecting type designer would approve. Unfortunately, issues such as these will keep Grand Seiko from reaching the heights of, for example, A. Lange & Sohne. Every detail matters.
I don't see it. They look the same to me.
I regret it either, its stunning.
Amazing watch.
Such a beautiful watch, so excited about my trip to my local dealer! Thanks for sharing 👍
Have fun Freddie!
I regret NOT buying either a Tintin Speedmaster or a Heuer Bundeswehr when they were anywhere close to affordable.
I love its so clean and simple, but could be 39 mm if you ask me. Like the new GS Birch with the high beat 36000 and 80 hours power reserve.
I love the GS birch omg wish I owned one
I love the 37-39mm size
What's great more about GS is another model with a spring drive technology.. the second hand movement is damn smooth.. that's the best Japanese watch I've ever seen after Casio Oceanus
I regret buying a Breitling for Bentley GMT in 2013, same money could have gotten me a timeless Rolex that is worth more now :(.
This will be my graduation present
Great brand. I have the SBGP005G. OUTSTANDING
The SBGP005 is an incredible watch! Congratulations
I would regret buying that watch. All that money, and no date, no lume, and manual wind. I can hear my dear old mum now, "a fool and his money are soon parted."
This watch is love at first sight!!.
You've earned a new follower mate!
Great content and brilliant watch indeed!
I'll be adding one of these to the collection. watch is perfection.
I regret selling my Omega Seamaster “The Pierce Brosnan Bond era” due to economical condition...and nowadays buying an Omega Seamaster is expensive...instead I bought a Seiko SRPD63K1 and it’s just not the same “aura” as the Omega...Looking at the new lines of Omega Seamaster at the moment...😱 So I regret buying the Seiko SRPD63K1...instead I bought another Seiko SPB053J1...and saving for the right moment to buy an Omega Seamaster 😍👍🏻
I regret selling an eight-day (!) minute repeater (18k hunter case, retailed in Bombay, Marcks& Co, raw movement made allegedly by Audemars) on three (!) gongs. This watch had a special train and small balance to make it run eight days. A minute repeater with this feature is rare, but a minute repeater eight-day on three gongs is even rarer. Just find a single one of these ever again.
My best hand winding experience is Longines Charles Lindbergh replica, sounds softer than this GrandSeiko.
I have worn for several years and came to the conclusion, not my best watch.
1. Leather straps worn out quickly and isn't comfortable with humid places.
2. Water Resistance is too low.
3. No lume indecies.
I like this SBGW231, too and almost any of very simple dress watches. This one is probably the best from Seiko.
Hallo, you can't be serious?
On the list! Very versatile dress watch.
I just saw this one for sale at my local AD. So tempting.
The watch looks perfect on you! By chance, do you know what your wrist width is in mm? (as opposed to the circumference ). Thanks :D
I had to look this watch up, I couldn't believe it wasn't an automatic wind.
I regret purchasing the Seiko King Samurai. It runs 20 seconds fast per day. Every Sunday I have to re-adjust it for the almost 4 minutes that it gained in the week. How can such an expensive watch have such poor quality control? My solar Casio Oceanus T200 is beautiful, I never have to touch it, it is always within 1/100th of one second from the actual time (adjusts via satellite), has perpetual calendar and I can even ring my phone if I have miss-placed it with a button in the watch.
Love your production! Do you think it would be possible for your channel to make a video on what tools and equipments you use to make your videos?
Awesome review and input about the polishing.
I sold a Tudor I regret because is ran a little slow. Never thought it could easily be adjusted.
One watch per brand.......my rule now as well, though I still have two Dan Henrys and, technically, two Seikos (one a Seiko 5 & the other a Wired digital). Now I have to decide which of the two to get rid of.
Love it, so sad I cannot justify spending that kind of money, I wish to have this reference with spring g drive
i’m a swiss watch snob .... but that’s a good looking watch nice finishing... if i get offered one for bargain price i jump on it
iI just bought my 2nd GS and this is the one! Love it!