The SBGH351 with green dial honours Rikka, the seventh of 24 seasonal divisions (All photos: Grand Seiko)
Embodying the Japanese principles of balance and attention to detail, Grand Seiko’s Heritage Collection is a prime example of fine watchmaking that hones in on pure essentials while offering unmatched elegance. In celebration of the seasonal calendar, two timepieces have been introduced to the line — the SBGH351 and SBGH353.
Both modern reinterpretations of the house’s first-ever automatic model, the 62GS from 1967, these fresh releases are inspired by the Rikka and Shūbun periods on the Japanese calendar, succeeding collector favourites SBGH271 and SBGH273 which are known for capturing the beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes in colourful, painstakingly crafted watch faces.
Sporting an eye-catching green dial, the SBGH351 honours Rikka, the seventh of 24 seasonal divisions (sekki in Japanese), wherein the budding blooms and refreshing coolness of spring transition into the warmth and vibrancy of summer. Its texture mirrors the lush grasslands around the Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi in the Iwate prefecture, rippled by a gentle breeze. A gold logo and slender second hand complete this calming look.
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Meanwhile, the SBGH353 embodies the magic of the 16th sekki Shūbun, in which the autumn equinox occurs. This is the time when night skies are said to be exceptionally clear, scattered with glittering stars. The brand channels this celestial wonder in a deep azure dial paired with the same gold accents as the SBGH351.
Housed in zaratsu-polished cases, the mechanical Hi-Beat 3600 Calibre 9S85, constructed by Grand Seiko’s master artisans, powers both models. Fitted on Ever-Brilliant steel bracelets with threefold clasps and push button releases, the pieces boast water resistance up to 100m and box-shaped sapphire crystals.
This article first appeared on Feb 10, 2025 in The Edge Malaysia.
