Grand Seiko SBGA211 Snowflake Review

Grand Seiko SBGA211 Snowflake Review on the JustBlueFish KZbin channel, home of high quality wristwatch and horology related reviews and videos.
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www.exquisitetimepieces.com
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What can I say, the Grand Seiko Snowflake reference SBGA211 is THE Grand Seiko. Beautiful dial, amazing zaratsu polishing, spring drive movement, stellar accuracy. What more can you ask for?
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Thanks for watching!

[@trueblue4l1f3]

Took an interest in watches and I knew I wanted something special besides major name brands like Rolex or Omega. Purchased the snowflake last week and boy am I in love. Beautiful watch and it's crazy how accurate the spring drive is! For those thinking 41mm is too big, try the watch first. My wrist is only 6.5ish and I love the fitment, plus titanium is a joy to wear.

[@seanliew7343]

The best part of this snowflake is its dial and the wonderful sweeping second hand. Nothing ever comes close, period.

[@kevinmorrice]

i love that its not just a dial, theres a story to the design, it adds to the watches character

[@AyBi_Studio]

As far as I see it, when you think about the resale value before buying a watch you should probably not but it. I believe that buying a watch, espacially at this price point, should be a keeper, a piece that you won't even consider to sale. It seems like today's people has no sentiments to their own purchases. Yeah, I know that resale value is important, but your first instinct is to fall in love with the watch, and if the next thing you think off is selling it in the future without losing loads of money, then just leave it in the store and search for another one you would be sure for 100% that it'll stay with you for good.

[@JustBlueFish]

Resale value is important because until you own it and wear it for a while you can never be sure with 100% certainty that you're going to love it. Before I bought it was fully expected my Rolex Explorer to be the perfect watch for me. After a few months I found that I was disappointed with it. I sold it. I've now had a Submariner for about a year and I love it and don't expect to ever part with it, but it's impossible to know for sure that you'll never want to sell a watch until after you put your money down.

[@AyBi_Studio]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews Exactly, and that's why many people probably missing a great watches they could have own but were to afraid that it wouldn't perfect for them. Maybe I'm naive or something but high resale value is just a bonus for me when I buy something. :)

[@marcocastagnetti7086]

Just read your comments, very well put indeed.

[@rustyshackleford17]

I am with you there. Unfortunately, the passion is full of speculators, scalpers, and hype beasts. Too many people try to follow these flash in a pan fads and get burnt on them. But I'm with you that if one of your considerations to purchasing the watch is the resale value...it probably isn't the watch for you. The only thing keeping me from completely falling in love with the snowflake is the power reserve. The second they have a model without it, I'm there.

[@MrMercSoldier]

The spring drive has to be one of the coolest things in automatic watches

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah, I'm a fan. I love accurate watches.

[@DeusNyx]

I can, personally, vouch for the finish of this watch. When its worn on sunny day, the reflection of the indices is nigh unmatched. Even a watch double this price doesn't feel like it has the quality of this finish on its dial. That technique of finishing by hand and by feel is unique! Great vid. Im with you, 41mm is my border line.

[@JustBlueFish]

I really need to check out some of the slightly smaller Grand Seiko watches and see how those sit on the wrist. I was very impressed with the quality and could see having one some day if the size was just right.

[@hamidikhalid915]

I have this watch and must say the best in my collection. Its my daily watch and bring a smile to my face everytime i catch a glimpse of it. Extremely accurate and fantastic level of finish.

[@JustBlueFish]

They are very impressive. I just wish it was a hair smaller, but that's all personal taste and everyone will have different thoughts on that.

[@wessamhamadneh9877]

was at the seiko shop today for 2hrs....freakin love grand seiko !!! the perfection of watch making !!!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching Jaden.

[@dnlmoretti]

I’m glad you mentioned that the bracelet is of equal quality as the case - I really don’t see why so many individuals, even GS fans, complain about it. Sure, it may not up to par with the likes of a Royal Oak bracelet but I mean….. at the price point I think the snowflake punches way above its weight class

[@gonnahavemesomefun]

Superb review thank you -and you are the first reviewer to point out the slight dome to the crystal 👏 -I didn’t know it had this!

[@Tomatohater64]

Absolutely love this watch. My first watch was a Seiko I bought in 1982. It lasted until 1992 with no problems at all. Kept time perfectly. Whatever they put inside the watch, it performed flawlessly for a decade. I think I paid 175$ for it in 1982. It eventually died a good horologic death, but I got every penny from that watch. I'll always love Seiko.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Stephen. Was that Seiko you bought a mechanical and it went 10 years?

[@Tomatohater64]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews Never had one problem. Went ten years, then died. I took it to three local watch repair dealers and they all told me it would cost more to repair it than replace it.

[@Tomatohater64]

A Free and Simple Life Wow. That's incredible.

[@geraldbrienza4474]

I bought a Rolex 35 years ago. Still runs and looks new. Also, it’s worth 4x what I originally paid for it, so...........

[@stevek8829]

My Seiko 5 auto from that time is still going fine, just got a new crystal and strap.

[@watchcollectingstrategy]

Thank you so much for the shoutout buddy & I must say the shirt looks great on you! There will be 6 new icon designs coming as soon as I get back from my travels. I will release the first 3 around August 25th. The Seiko shirts are sold out but I think I have 2 left which I'd be glad to send to you when I get back for any future giveaway you might have for your channel! Keep up the great work my friend!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for the shirt my friend!

[@chrisauge6802]

Thanks for the review Guy...great job

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Chris!

[@evox3656]

I've had a Snowflake for 4 years, and this review is spot-on. My wrists are large, 8", and the watch is still too big. Part of it comes from being too thick, and part from the case shape. Even though the lugs are short, they bend over the wrist in a "Pringles" fashion, pushing the case a bit too proud. Also, the dial is so plain that the size is exacerbated by a dearth of details to fill it. I have a love/hate relationship with the power reserve: one one hand it's extremely nicely finished, the cut edges are super crisp, the full/empty indices and pointer flawless, but why is it on the dial at all? I've rather have the watch at 39mm and have it on the back. The titanium case is not as dark grey as Ti usually is, and I don't notice it being Ti until I pick it up. Due to the weight, it wears invisibly. Recently I bought a Citizen Chronomaster AQ4020-54Y, a very similar watch. Ti, hi-accuracy quartz, eco-drive, perpetual, white Japanese paper dial, Zaratsu polish, Citizen's best. About half the price of the Seiko, it's 4/5 the quality. The Ti is warmer and looks like white gold, the indices and hands have some slight black fill, and being thinner the indices catch and reflect more light than the GS, for a dazzling look. It's a much smaller watch, 38mm x 10.5mm, and the case is more chiseled, tighter and more svelte. Since I got the Citizen I've toyed with selling the Snowflake, I've had it for many years, but I just can't. It's an iconic watch for Seiko, and it's foibles perhaps give it needed character.

[@JustBlueFish]

Interesting to hear someone with a larger wrist feels the same about the size. Thanks for sharing your experience and thanks for watching.

[@marcocastagnetti7086]

Liked your comments, yes your right about the power reserve funny how I never thought of it, also maybe it's OCD but you would think the needle would go down when it's loosening power as apossed to full power in the down position.

[@antonioraffa5489]

WOW - The finishing is exquisite and captivating. GS have clearly strived for perfection. Great review.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks

[@marcingrzegorczyk5608]

To be honest I'm disappointed with the polishing on the case sides. You can see the orange peel effect and that looks sloppy if you consider the "Zaratsu" technique they advertise.

[@TheWayofGrace89]

Instant classic. Grail. Beautiful.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@garya274]

Great video. Very thorough. Love GS. The snowflake is a beautiful piece. But.. when i saw the GS high beat 20th anniversary blue mosaic style dial, wow. I had to pick one up. Most stunning watch i have ever seen!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@freedomvan2970]

Just wanted to pop in and say this my first time viewing one of your vids and I love your style. Subscribed!!

[@JustBlueFish]

Awesome thanks buddy. I appreciate it.

[@garyggarner7738]

I throughly enjoyed your Video! Thank You for the links! In high school my 2nd job was in a fine jewelry store and a diamond brokerage. We carried all ranges of fine watches. I learned about China, Silver, Gemology, Fine writing instruments and watches! The least expensive watch was s Bulova Caravelle. Other lines Breitling, Longines, Witnauer, Omega, Rado, Rolex, and had access to AP and other fine watches through a relatives store in San Antonio. I became s “Watch Addict!” My first “expensive fine watch” was a Bulova Accutron 214, in Solid 14Kt Gold, a Beautiful Cushion Shape and I just put a new battery in it a couple of Months ago. I still love the sound of the tuning fork “hum”.... It’s still very accurate and s beautiful time piece! Citizen now owns Bulova, I recently purchased a Bulova Lunar with s “Tri-Tuning Fork” and while it doesn’t hum, it has a movement that operates at 262 kHz. Very Accurate, The Omega Speedmaster wasn’t the only “watch in space”... I have 7 Seiko’s in my collection. I just put a battery in a Seiko Sports 100 Chronograph! Awesome Quartz time piece, Black Dial White Hands and Markers. Still very accurate! I love the looks of Seikos, and “Seiko” looks to be hand carved, Underneath the word Quartz, in Script under that “Chronograph”; Under that Painted “Sports100”... I love their attention to detail and this Chronograph has my Monogram engraved on the bracelet Clasp. I enjoy all my watches especially my Seikos. I will have to save up for a spring Drive but like all Seiko Products - I will have Seiko Deisgn, Engineering, Attention to Detail and their quality. All my Seikos second hands and in case of a analog chrionograph land directly on the indices of the dial. I am Blessed to have Bulovas, Casios (low to high - I love the Pro Trek 6000Y) Citizens, and Yes, I have some Swiss Brands... and quite a few Japanese Solar Models! I like engineering and technology. My Kids have Apple Watches and I like the technology... however, I like looking at my Analog Watches and immediately know what time it is.... call me old fashioned - I still love the Mechanical movements! I love technology and engineering and most of all I love quality! YES, I WANT A SEIKO SPRING DRIVE! GUY I ENJOY YOUR VIDEOS! SEIKO DESIGN, SEIKO ENGINEERING, SEIKO ATTENTION TO DETAIL, AND MOST OF ALL - SEIKO QUALITY!!! I LOVE THE SNOW FLAKE 2ND GENERATION! GORGEOUS TIME PIECE! I Love my Titanium Watches! To me, If not a Precious metal - Chose Titanium!! Unfortunately I have to wait a while......So keep making your awesome videos!

[@jcworks826]

Great and very honest review. This week, I bought my first Grand Seiko. A black dial spring drive piece in 39mm. Strangely, when looking at the snowflake model in the showcase, the 39mm appeared bigger!!! Whether it's the white dial or I should carry on with my pills...

[@emunahshalomselah5124]

The font is calligraphy. I love how the hands look like razor blades. The color of the sweeping hand seems to resemble dichroic metal (purple and blue).

[@airborneSGT]

I have this watch and love it! The most accurate of my collection.

[@JustBlueFish]

The spring drive is impressive, I’ve heard a lot of people sing it’s praises in terms of the accuracy.

[@vonkruel]

What a beauty. I'm not about to buy one myself but I sure did appreciate the chance to admire it. Thanks very much for the video.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@macbain2184]

Although I disagree with your comments on size, I *LOVE* your review. Very nicely done.

[@JustBlueFish]

Size is subjective. I tend to like smaller watches. Thanks for watching!

[@Ronaldalan114]

This is a formal watch in my opinion, not a casual watch. Great review, thank you.

[@EnriqueGiliOrtiz]

This was an amazing review of a great watch. Well done! Best regards.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thank you Enrique. Glad you liked the review.

[@newsigmundfreud3023]

*Thank you very much for the very honest and down to earth review.* The size I agree is sort of big (and maybe even bulky for a dress watch).

[@weezy013]

I'm not a big guy and I think it wears light and trim. I have mine on a canvas strap which works so well with this watch IMO. Comes down to personal preference.

[@itsabouttime9113]

Thank you for reviewing my grail watch!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@therichardchannel]

Spring drive has got to be the coolest movement out there.

[@JustBlueFish]

I'm a fan. Thanks for watching.

[@Arcane_Digital]

It’s so crisp, great review, Sir!

[@georgeelgart1060]

Stunning watch. I would love to have this watch. I agree it would be great to be just a touch smaller.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching George.

[@MrSaadmubarak]

I had the same thought...And ended up just purchasing the season spring edition. It is 1 mm smaller, and wears great. My ONLY complaint, is no micro adjustment on the bracelet. But that can be easily resolved with a strap change. Sbga413

[@robinc3307]

That is beautiful.....i was looking at an Explorer 1 or Zenith el prim......think the grand seiko just made the list

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching Robin.

[@CarloDimacali]

Fantastic review Guy! The amount of visual detail you do on this review is as exquisite as the watch you're reviewing. If I have money to burn for a high end watch, this would definitely be my first choice. I love most of the features of that watch. The finishing is on par, if not exceeds the finishing of it's competition, and the sweep of the second hand is just mesmerizing and second to none. The size is okay for me. I just don't like watches lower than 40mm on my wrist. I'm not a fan of how they placed the power reserve meter, though. I would rather have it placed with the hands of the watch or viewed through the case back. I'm also not a fan of the dial, I'm probably in the minority here. But along with all my dislikes, and if I have a budget to buy one watch along this watch's price range, this would probably be my first choice. I wouldn't be uncomfortable wearing it, simply because many don't have any idea how much it costs. Cheers!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching Carlo. The PR indicator isn't the best design feature of the watch and the layout on the dial makes for some asymmetrical confusion. But... I don't hate it.

[@kerkiraz]

It’s amazing how this brings out the absolute best in this watch.

[@antg.3846]

I have a 6 3/4 wrist and I think the piece wears great as a casual piece. I feel GS chose 41mm because it opens up to appreciate the design of the dial more.

[@JustBlueFish]

It's subjective, everyone is comfortable with different things. I'd prefer this watch at a slightly smaller size.

[@GOMAROMA]

There is a scene in the blockbuster movie Highlander from the 80s when the character Brenda Wyatt confronts Connor McLeod and asks him what he can tell her about a Japanese sword dated 600 B.C. the metal in the blade folded 200 times! That mysticism and cache is the way I feel about this watch. People in hundreds of years asking about this Japanese watch that was a spring drive quartz that kept exceptional time and in titanium. Maybe I’m just a romantic!

[@JustBlueFish]

You know I've never actually seen the Highlander movie. That should probably go on my list. Thanks for watching!

[@morningwaves]

At first he tried to hide his knowledge by saying "I don't deal in exotic weapons." Well the Grand Seiko Snowflake is an exotic "weapon" lol

[@GoogleAccount-vn8mu]

Juan Sanchez Villa Loboz Ramirez would wear this watch.

[@zenjitsuman]

When I go to my Gym, I do wrist and forearm strength exercises, that have added strength to my grip and forearm. These exercises also added about one half inch to the circumference of my wrist where I wear a watch. You could easily exercise your wrist to 7-1/4 inches and make this watch fit you perfectly.

[@rickjason215]

My AD said the average sizing he gets for men is 7 1/4. Adding a half inch to your wrist is a lot.

[@andrewholt3849]

I have been aware of Grand Seiko Spring Drive through Hodinkee's Jack Forster in passing but haven't really read any of their articles or looked at the video they did about their manufacture in Japan but was aware you are getting excellent value for money. There are no sharp edges on this watch unlike the Rolex Explorer you had. I'd definitely get one. Your video quality and commentary are excellent and being able to get watches to review from Exquisite Timepieces is invaluable. I like Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 42mm and 44mm. Some are precious metal, but the stainless and separate Titanium 44mm Royal Oak Offshore with a 100m rating and Chronograph are nice with good clear dials. I learnt a lot about Grand Seiko I didn't know from watching this.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching and the feedback Andrew, glad you took the time to watch my video. I haven't seen an AP RO Offshore in person but I was lucky enough to have a standard Royal Oak loaned to me last year which I reviewed. Lovely watch.

[@andrewholt3849]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews The Offshore models came in 1993 and are like the Rolex sports range. All Chronographs, which I wouldn't really use, but with on the 44mm ROO ceramic bezels and crown and Chronograph pushers in high quality vulcanised rubber straps on matching metal or precious metal pin buckle. The 42mm have metal bezels and the modern ones ceramic crown and Chronograph pushers, older models had nitrile rubber pushers and crown which wear. They are on a metal bracelet, unlike the 44mm and both, like the Grand Seiko had exhibition casebaxks as the movements are finished on a level with Patek Philippe whose equivalent sorts models are the Nautilus and from 1976 and 1997 Aquanaut in a rubber strap. If you ask Exquisite Timepieces for the ROO 44mm stainless or Titanium, there is also a forged carbon and separate ceramic one. All the same 44mm case in a rubber strap, of which you can get different ones. At SIHH Jan 2018, Audemars Piguet brought out updated dials on both 42mm and 44mm and a 44mm camo version with dark green ceramic bezel and pushers and camo rubber strap. Audemars Piguet have an electronically updated catalogue with their iPhone app if you search for it with all models in. It updates automatically when new models released.

[@jacc88888]

Great review and lovely closeups of a beautifully made watch. If the lugs were slimmer and curved in more it would possibly make it wear smaller. The new slimmer SJE073 presage is a nicer case shape imo even though I’m sure the finishing won’t be to the same standard as a GS

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching, I’ll look up the one you suggested.

[@harleyb.8293]

Great review and love the beard. Great channel.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks buddy

[@daletaylorjr.4786]

This watch was made for me! with an 8.25" wrist, I could rock this thing all day!

[@daletaylorjr.4786]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews priorities first. A few more short years and my house will be paid off. Then I get what I want. Lol

[@39Thorns]

I think the real estate on the dial compliments the whole aesthetic of the snowflake design. Simple, clean, outdoor, calm space. If it were smaller it might not achieve the same effect.

[@rhonda837]

Exactly.

[@pault6731]

A really great watch and I'm a proud owner of this watch and totally love it.

[@JustBlueFish]

Nice, enjoy it!

[@blyatman635]

As always top notch review

[@JustBlueFish]

Thank you sir!

[@oli266]

Great review, thank you very much

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks you.

[@julienholmgren1543]

Really nice video, I saw one a few days ago and I'm considering buying it. Although I have thin wrists, it's not too big for me but you are right, a 39 mm watch would be nice.

[@WatchGeek]

Excellent video of a legendary watch. I have the same reason for disliking it. Size. Everything else is amazing about it. I'm glad you are getting access to all these amazing watches 👍😊

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Marin. I appreciate you taking the time to watch. I need to look at some of the slightly smaller Grand Seiko watches and see what I think of those.

[@WatchGeek]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews as always I recommend vintage models 😁. I wish we lived in the same country so I could send you my King Seiko to try it on

[@FatSamEIE]

I have the sbga085 which was the smallest and simplest Gs I could find, I want to love the snowflake but the size is too big and I’m not sure about the titanium

[@JohnnyParanoid]

Every time I see a Snowflake I'm always impressed. The Spring Drive movement is a monumental achievement in itself, but pair it with the amazing finishing workmanship and you have a watch that I believe rivals any of the big Swiss companies. Titanium tends to be a darker grey than stainless steel, which is what I think those people who say they don't like titanium are talking about. But I agree, it looks like SS. Impressive watch, nice review! Thanks!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Justin, I appreciate the comments. I do think the Titanium they're using on this watch and the finishing techniques make it look so much like SS that I can barely tell the difference. Sure it's a little bit darker perhaps, but not so much that it would be obvious to the casual observer, and to be honest if I hadn't known it was TI I would have probably just assumed it was stainless.

[@bazs7669]

Great review 👏🏽

[@KG-ro8ft]

Great video as always

[@peterroda3441]

I think this is the perfect watch. Clean and concise. I wish I had the money to buy it.

[@JustBlueFish]

I wish it was slightly smaller but I do like it a lot.

[@Ron_A._Bolton]

Well I just bought an SBGA259 in Australia they are $8400. But so happy with it.

[@greenerick]

I bet you now it's running perfectly no issues

[@Bongskiman]

Great review. You deserve a like.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thank you sir.

[@jono8884]

Love that watch, wish I could afford it.

[@alexharris8500]

Beautiful watch ⌚😍

[@903lew]

I’ve had the 011 for a few years now and I love it. The size is quite perfect for me to use as an everyday watch and the finish is second to none. Being titanium it’s just so nice and light. And the dial says “Seiko”. For the casual observer or client it’s “...just a Seiko”, sometimes you don’t want to flash your success (I’m in corporate sales). For those clients who are interested it’s a Grand Seiko, something very different. I dunno man, for me it was a grail that came early (deal I could not refuse). For me, it’s perfect. And “just a Seiko” :).

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching, and sharing your story. It's an outstanding watch, wear it proudly.

[@903lew]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews I believe I’ve figured out what I enjoy about your videos so much. Apart from the fact that they are well made I quite enjoy the way you are open with your subjective thoughts on the piece. These are, after all, luxury toys for grown-ups. But listening to some YT-videos one would think that the item in hand was a very serious item who’s peculiars were of great importance to the world. They’re not, they’re just watches and some we like more than others. Thank you for that.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks buddy. That’s a nice thing to say. I’ll keep trying to do my best.

[@tommym1966]

I was disappointed when they pushed the GS logo above the old Seiko format. I'd definitely go for the pre 2017 model.

[@903lew]

Tom Mills Does look quite bleak in comparison, doesn’t it?

[@Endureromex]

I like the size, perfect for mi. Thanks for the review.

[@guykoch5484]

I know I want a Grand Seiko with spring drive in my collection, I just can't choose between the snowflake and the sbga031 diver. I agree that the snowflake is a bit too large to wear as a true dress watch. The sbga031 is a diver, so a larger size makes sense. But still that Snowflake is just so gorgeous in my opinion. Can't decide.

[@JustBlueFish]

I'm not sure if Exquisite Timepieces has the SBGA031 (or 231) model. I noticed a diver in the display case but I didn't look at it too closely. I'll have to check next time I go by the store.

[@randybrickson4290]

Nailed it. Very impressive piece for all the reasons mentioned: design, aesthetics, quality, precision. Cost is reasonable too. The 41 mm size however is self-defeating and frankly off-putting to the point that I, a potential buyer, will not consider it any further. This piece would sing at 38 mm or (my personal preference) 36mm.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks Randy. If it were a touch smaller it might be perfect.

[@tomkhong9828]

Great review, very detailed. Totally agreed about the size is just a little too big. A dress watch should be 36-38mm. The problem with spring drive is the servicing can only be done in Japan.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@mikegeary2112]

Absolutely stunning!

[@JustBlueFish]

It is a very nice looking watch. Thanks for watching.

[@jd1700]

I’ve tried this on and for me it is not a small 41, I had quite a bit of over hang, I’m pretty sure the lug to lug is more 50mm because my seiko tuna is 47mm all around and that fits nicely

[@markvii7915]

I have a SGBA211. Spring Drive is cool technology.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@arturgarncarz3631]

Amazing watch! Spring Drive is more superb than any swiss made movement.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@22Phanatic]

Lovely watch!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching Robert.

[@gmshadowtraders]

That's a sweet shirt my man!

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah, was very nice to get that sent over to me. I've had it a while, and being as I had a Seiko review to do so thought I should finally wear it on camera and send out some thanks for it.

[@wincrasher2007]

it's awesome in every way and extremely desirable and luxurious. It's the best watch I've ever bought and I love to wear it.

[@wcarneirofilho]

The best movement there is.Outstanding accuracy!

[@Bippy55]

(Jan 2020) - Great detailed review! I wish it had LUM hands and a LUMinous dot at 12:00 position.

[@JanPBtest]

12:10 Actually it does exhibit an effect which does not show on your video for some reason.I just saw this watch today in a store and the dial surface shows a _sparkling_ effect which is what real snow does. It's not massive (just like on real snow) but it's noticeable. Or perhaps you are using a very diffuse light. I was quite impressed by that little effect.

[@fluffyfreak505]

Grand Seiko keeps pyshing Rolex out of the top spots for watches i want...... rather have this then a datejust or daydate! Would rather have the titanium diver then a Sub too

[@JustBlueFish]

The titanium GS Spring Drive Diver looks interesting, but the 44mm makes me a little leary. I'd have to see one in person to give it a fair assessment but I'd guess it's larger than I'd prefer. The 45mm on that Blancpain FF I recently reviewed was much too large for me.

[@fluffyfreak505]

JustBlueFish Watch Reviews i got 8.5" wrists, so for me, both watches fit perfectly. I got to try them on at the Seiko store in Miami a couple months back, which happens to be next door to rolex, and IMO they are both better buys then their Rolex rivals. I realize thats blasphemy in the watch world, but if i cared about that kind of thing, id be a tool! Haha

[@CrimFerret]

@@JustBlueFish The Snowflake is a beautiful classy watch that's also tough as nails. I have relatively large wrists so the size would be fine for me. I like the Spring Drive GMT as well, but it's 44mm. I know sport and dive watches tend to be larger, but that's getting up there. I could probably wear one but I'd sure want to try one on in person first. I find it amusing how uncomfortable some reviewers are with the fact that the fit and finish level of many GS watches runs circles around Rolex. You can hear it in their voices when they half heartedly make the comparison knowing that if they gave their true opinion, they'd bring down the wrath of the Rolex zealots.

[@carlosdelacadiz6658]

Held one at a Seiko boutique and finishing is definitely better then any Rolex I've handled. Grand Seiko is one of best at price point.

[@JustBlueFish]

Yeah they do a great job with finishing.

[@jonfox1140]

Beautiful

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@maitrehg]

I’m always amazed by the beauty of hands and markers on Grand Seiko watches.

[@takuji9190]

Snowflake SBGA211 is very beautiful and very cool！

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@juanluisgonzalezb.4736]

Great review as always! But beg to differ on size. It's not quite 41mm (40.2 if IIRC), and wears in my opinion, smaller. I can only compare with my Tudor 58 at 39mm, and that for me wears same size or even larger on my 7 inch wrist. It is also comparable (from memory), in size to the modern Rolex DateJust. Thanks for the review!

[@4034miguel]

Agree. Too big. I have some watches at 41 that so well designed that they wear like 39 and 40mm. In general, I prefer 38-40mm sizes. Thanks for an enjoyable video.

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@DenisHauser]

Very nice watch!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@TheTimLara]

Awesome review, thanks for posting! I, too, wish that the Snowflake was available in a 38mm size, but even more than that, I wish GS would make some slightly less expensive models with more of a tool watch or field watch aesthetic. Something with more muted finishing, but with the same amazing Spring Drive movement. I know I have seen a Spring Drive diver, but for the most part their whole line is focused on the dressy luxury brand look, which is just far too formal for a guy like me to pull off, even if I could afford the price tag. My ideal would be something maybe more like a Sinn 556 style and size, but with Spring Drive tech. Not sure what the price breakdown is on a GS with respect to the cost of the movement on the inside vs the cost of all the fancy finishing work on the outside.

[@JustBlueFish]

A 38mm GS Spring Drive Field Watch... Sign me up!

[@mathieuvaillancourt3219]

Yep that's why I'm looking at the seemaster railmaster. Simple, brush, good movement :)

[@paullynch4021]

Grand Seiko has watches with "more muted finishing".... they're Seikos. And you aren't getting Spring Drive movements on the cheap. You don't put Ferrari engines in Toyotas.

[@TheTimLara]

Paul Lynch Please......the Ferrari analogy is so overused in watch snobbery. There is no reason a high end movement can't be put in any case. The finishing is independent of the technical function, it's just for the "jewelry" aspect, has nothing to do with keeping time.

[@FatSamEIE]

I got the sbga085 as an alternative to an explorer or OP39 which I was considering as an every day/go anywhere do anything watch. It’s not a proper tool watch but wears nice and is robust. They do make a few antimagnetic GS which look a lot more tool like (milgauss-ey)

[@camarossdriver]

I own a Rolex Air-King and a no date Submariner...but if I had one of these...this could easily turn out to be my favorite watch.

[@zamSEG]

hello sir, that is a very beautiful timepiece! i prefer the old design more than the new one. better than rolex i guess but still can't beat my grail tudor pelagos imho. thank you for this great video. keep it coming sir. cheers. :)

[@JustBlueFish]

On some of their watches I prefer the old design. On this model I like this style though.

[@zamSEG]

agree to disagree sir. haha. enjoy.

[@BeyondWrittenWords]

Perfect watch, grail!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@almcl9391]

Great review. I do like the watch and was previously considering it. What put me off is not the size (although I do agree that a 38-39 would be better) but more (1) the thickness and (2) I really think the power reserve meter greatly detracts from an otherwise great dial and could have been placed on the case back

[@JustBlueFish]

The PR indicator isn't the best in terms of design and layout, but I don't hate it. It is a little on the thick side as well.

[@almcl9391]

Craig Shipp many thanks. Will check it out. Much appreciated

[@almcl9391]

Thanks again. I have too many divers right now, but the GS is nice. I know GS have a 38-39mm GS snowflake but that one is relatively thick and hi-beat, not SD. I will check out the other GS SD snowflakes in due course. Appreciate the info. Best wishes

[@almcl9391]

Craig Shipp Thanks for your fantastic info. That is another cracking quality watch for a very reasonable price. That said, I prefer the dial and better colour matching in the date window of the sbga211. I will wait for a future 38mm snowflake w/o pr (here’s hoping; Seiko rarely disappoints).

[@almcl9391]

Craig Shipp Thanks again. Appreciated

[@sganairocks]

Please review the Seiko Prospex Spring Drive.

[@Narrowcros]

I dont mind it being 41, since the size seems a bit smaller. The only tiny issue is the thickness of the watch, thats what makes it a tad uncomfortable but overall a speculator watch to complement my Rolex.

[@deannascott3475]

If one presented that wat to C.O.S.C for certification, would it be tested per mechanical specs or Quartz specs, there are 2 different testing procedures for the 2 types of testing...curious

[@benm2370]

No mention of weight? Weight seems to be an issue with many elsewhere. Any views on it being too light?

[@PK-mx7nf]

Had the SARX055, but i'm not a fan of titanium I learned. I prefer the heft of steel!

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching I appreciate it.

[@waffle168]

I love the continuous sweep of the spring drive. Are there Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches under 40mm?

[@JustBlueFish]

There is a 39mm Spring Drive if I’m not mistaken.

[@pkincy]

Yes but Japanese market only. However they will sell internationally.

[@TinBin-Craig]

i love it i want one...

[@JustBlueFish]

Thanks for watching.

[@robcooper2643]

Love grand Seiko's, the power reserve ruins the snowflake for me, BUT there are many without! Seiko is smart in creating diversity!

[@JustBlueFish]

I don't mind the PR, but I can see why people would rather it not be there.

[@notmypresident4066]

Seeing a little "orange peel" in the left side case at some angles/shots. Looks mirror-finished in others. Anyone else notice this? Could this be a difference in the way zaratsu works on titanium vs. stainless? Haven't noticed this in any other GS macro shots.

[@n.hermanto9667]

GS should really produce snowflake variant with 39mm in SS case and add micro adjustment to the damn clasp.

[@JustBlueFish]

Yep

[@TruckeeDoggo]

I had the black version of this Spring Drive watch (same case). It's too big for a casual watch. It should be a 39mm, max. Also hate to say, I like the Spring Drive movement but the dial would be much nicer without the power reserve indicator.

[@JustBlueFish]

The power reserve indicator is a polarizing feature. Some like it some don’t.

[@mountainhobo]

What about the thickness of the watch? For me that is often a bigger problem than other dimensions once the watch has a problem fitting under a shirt without looking like you have a chimney growing from your wrist, and Seikos are rather notorious for being chunky.

[@JustBlueFish]

It's 12.5mm thick. That's not too bad. It's not a "thin" watch but for an automatic (or Spring Drive in this case) I don't think that is too thick.

[@mountainhobo]

Agree, it's not too bad for a sports watch, but it's pushing it for a dress watch. For the latter to me ~ 10 mm is about tops.

[@JayzBeerz]

Hoping one day I own this watch.

[@JustBlueFish]

I hope so too.

[@JayzBeerz]

@@JustBlueFish Thank you Sir.

[@tomcognilio1816]

Seiko is like Patagonia “don’t buy this jacket” and Rolex is like north face. You don’t buy a seiko to impress other but to know and love the intricate design and hand craftsmanship that went into it

[@mhanan76]

Would you rather a Snowflake or the so called Glacier (blue Snowflake)? Do you know if Grand Seiko retails OEM leather straps for this model along with a deployant Grand Seiko buckle? I believe this model would look way dressier with a nice croc leather strap and deployant buckle...IMO

[@LuisOrtizMBA]

Great review. Just one nitpick...there is no such thing as an indicey. The singular form of indices is an index. Otherwise awesome work, keep it up!

[@JustBlueFish]

That's fair, thanks for sharing and for watching.

[@ats7485]

I'm carefully looking at my Bulova Precisionist and comparing the sweep hand to the Snowflake, and it looks like the Snowflake is smoother than the Bulova. Nice. In my opinion, what detracts from the beauty of the Snowflake is the print on the dial. The words "Grand Seiko" are too loud and draw attention away from the rest of the watch. It strikes me as trying to make a status statement. If the black color had been more muted, and maybe even applied, I think it would have flowed better with the rest of the dial. Also, I think the tiny words "Spring Drive" might have done better as a scripted font, like that of the Orient Bambino, and added a touch of elegance to the overall presentation, instead of just the plain text. But overall, certainly a beautiful timepiece.

[@JustBlueFish]

I don't mind the boldness of the GS printing on the dial, but I agree that the Spring Drive text could be stylized a bit more.

[@ats7485]

Not to belabor the point but I just stumbled across a comparable example of what I'm talking about. The words don't jump off the dial as much. kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4PMiat-l79mgac

[@markomarin3414]

Can you do a review for Hamilton pilot day date aka Interstellar ?

[@JustBlueFish]

I’d love to. If you happen to know someone that would loan one in to me for review let me know.