I'm a great believer in Brand Loyalty. Being a collector, this was put to test during the pandemic, when alot of boutique staff became rude and unkind. This was the period that I realized just how special Grand Seiko is, the GS9 club sends a present every year - which in itself is such a kind gesture. It made me want to dig deeper into the catalogue and start focusing on GS more. I bought the SBGJ253 GMT, marvelous timepiece. Since then I've gone on to collect a 44GS Tribute and the Mt. Iwate. Truly a wonderful brand and spectacular movements. Love 'em!
@Julian-rt9qs2 жыл бұрын
This right here speaks volumes. i only recently got into watch collecting, just a few months before the pandemic hit everyone full-force, and Seiko is the brand that really sparked that love. I'm 7 watches in (no GS models yet) but my fandom for Seiko has only grown.' Now I'm really looking forward to making my first GS purchase to get a taste of that brand loyalty myself.
@Nimadee2 жыл бұрын
I find it utterly crazy and unacceptable how some luxury brands treat customers in general. I may be a student now and can't afford a super expensive piece, but I surely know where I won't buy for eg. my fist watch from my first real salary.
@charlottejet43382 жыл бұрын
@@Nimadee I wish you all the very best in your studies. Choosing and buying your first watch is a very special experience. A watch marks an event in one's life. I remember every one of mine... Welcome to the hobby. 😊
@MrJnrc2 жыл бұрын
Couldn’t agree more, laughed out of a Rolex AD, welcomed with open arms by Grand Seiko, proud owner of an SBGA413 shunbun “Cherry Blossom”.
@simonj56152 жыл бұрын
The company is Seiko, not Grand Seiko.
@jeremysanderson96732 жыл бұрын
My first ever watch was a Seiko. My father bought it for me when I was four years old in 1966. I’m 60 years old now and it still works perfectly. A couple of years ago my wife bought me a GS Spring Drive snowflake. I have may high end watches, but the snowflake is absolutely one of the best. I absolutely love it’s subtle refinement and mechanical perfection. It’s an absolute joy to wear. You know you have the right watch when you find yourself looking at it even when you don’t want to know what time it is.
@ivangamer80222 жыл бұрын
''grand'' seiko is a literal joke. the symbol: european lion. fonts: german. origine: a cheap asian plastic watches factory. grand: latin word only retards will pay big money for this japanes car grab thing. there'se nothing original and japanese
@Yayo5092 жыл бұрын
that is nuts lol Bless you Jeremy!
@daintiestquarters341110 ай бұрын
In Peru, Seiko was the high end watch for the urban working class during the 70s and 80s. We did to our Seikos and Citizens the unthinkable, without giving them service (we didn't even know what service was.) And they kept working as usual, despite the abuse and carelesness. A particular Seiko belonged first to my older brother, then to another brother, and finally to me. Nothing less was expected. For us, it was an expensive watch, to be used in every single circumstance, day and night, forever.
@gtcih9 ай бұрын
That is so true. My criteria exactly.
@janvandamme89205 ай бұрын
After having it for two years, I too still find myself looking at my SEIKO SSA413J1 PRESAGE, particularly at it's "open heart".
@Rezy2 жыл бұрын
I've purchased two luxury watches so far: both Grand Seikos. In the $5K - $10K pricepoint, it's genuinely difficult to find anything better. Whether it's movement, design, or finishing, Grand Seiko really does a fantastic job across the board. I would much rather wear a Grand Seiko over a Rolex.
@sdaafasfad2 жыл бұрын
My Oyster Perpetual cost more than double what I paid for my GS SBGR073. All you get for the Rolex over the GS is clout. I've never seen finishing to that standard, the GS is impeccable at every point. The movement isn't a spring drive, it's not even a high beat, just a modest 9S65. The movement finishing alone makes it worth it. When you look at the finishing on the case, the dial, the hands - you really think, what are you actually getting for a Rolex, apart from clout?
@keithhilton15642 жыл бұрын
I imagine you would not be wearing the rolex, with all the thieves about at the moment.
@sdaafasfad Жыл бұрын
@@keithhilton1564 unfortunately not. A shame as it is still a lovely watch regardless of how better finished the GS is. It's a tool watch - but unfortunately I've become the thing I hate the most in watch collecting - the guy who keeps it locked up instead of letting it get used. If I could wear it without fear of getting my arm sliced off with a machete, I would.
@nameless_no_name11 ай бұрын
We have to be honest with ourselves. The Rolex is an exquisite proven elite crafted watch. It is an icon of success when you have one. As much as I love my GS, the stopping power of a Roli is on a different strata vs GS. With a Rolex you are buying and extremely good watch, but you are also buying a statement. If it is all about what is under the hood, buy a Seiko which is 1/10th the price of a GS.
@LesParker-qx9xs19 күн бұрын
The Rolex is like a Paris Hilton, famous for been famous a few years back
@RobBrook2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for having me! Great hosts as always.
@Kevins-Philippine-Retirement2 жыл бұрын
I love the way Rob emphasized and described the uniqueness of Japanese culture. There is a strive for perfection by most Japanese people in everything they do that's found nowhere else in the world. From martial arts, tea making, toilets, cars, knives, Cameras, etc. Seiko, and particularly Grand Seiko is the pinnacle of this endeavour, where as humble as the Japanese are, it's almost like they are rubbing our noses in our own crude inferiority. I have owned a few Rolex watches, and currently own a Datejust. While Rolex quality is a very high standard, GS has surpassed Rolex in every way at a fraction of the price.
@techkraken75622 жыл бұрын
Wow, that's a statement
@ivangamer80222 жыл бұрын
''grand'' seiko is a literal joke. the symbol: european lion. fonts: german. origine: a cheap asian plastic watches factory. grand: latin word only retards will pay big money for this japanes car grab thing. there'se nothing original and japanese
@M3CoupeC502 жыл бұрын
I just dumped a Rolex Datejust on a jubilee band for an Omega Aqua terra. Rolex is a brand for people that identify with brand and not quality.
@mondrayuk2 жыл бұрын
The mere fact that Grand Seiko is Japanese should not have any bearing on choosing a good watch one iota. The Spring Drive movement is its own unique entity and very serious in approach towards craftsmanship and engineering. The finish of them is of a very high level. The more you research into Grand Seiko the more you appreciate them, understanding what they are all about. Having a Spring Drive in one's collection is very respectable and credible. There is so much that can be said about these!
@Roughdraft2142 жыл бұрын
I think they mean that as a complement to their work, as opposed to the stereotype that good watches can only be made in Switzerland.
@KeepingWatchUK2 жыл бұрын
As a GS (quartz) owner & fellow Yorkshireman, I loved this! Great guest & a credit to the brand. Honesty, integrity & a bit of humour thrown in. Things that can often be missing in this hobby of ours…great stuff Rob 👍🏻 One day I’ll add a SpringDrive I’m sure…
@st1tch872 жыл бұрын
Don't feel bad about having a GS quartz, they're made insanely well and even have a high level of finishing on them. Wear it with pride, I have a blue snoflake spring drive and absolutely love it. Either way welcome to the GS club, its growing every single day!
@balesjo2 жыл бұрын
The GS quartz movement sounds quite impressive. I've seen several new GS Quartz watches at quite affordable prices (a bit under $2000 USD), so for those thinking of one of the $1000 plus Seikos, you might be able to move up to a Grand Seiko.
@al764842 жыл бұрын
I agree. This Yorkshireman has sold GS to me.
@GU5S2 жыл бұрын
Yeah I didn't expect to hear the home tongue on here, but pleasantly surprised. The Yorkshire accent is so down to earth and friendly.
@colemanhoyt54372 жыл бұрын
I love that you can actually BUY the dang watch, as well. No weird ritual, no proving you're a worthy customer. They have it, you got the cash, you own the watch!
@legacywatchguy83332 жыл бұрын
I am so impressed by the heart behind the heritage. Lots of companies have been around for a long time, but to have this kind of devotion to beauty and perfection...and to hold onto that goal for so long, is truly admirable.
@ivangamer80222 жыл бұрын
''grand'' seiko is a literal joke. the symbol: european lion. fonts: german. origine: a cheap asian plastic watches factory. grand: latin word only retards will pay big money for this japanes car grab thing with quartz movement lol. there'se nothing original and japanese
@henryreed62372 жыл бұрын
I absolutely love my SBGJ261. I wear it every day and can’t imagine dropping that kind of coin on pretty much any other brand. It is miles ahead of everything else I’ve seen at this price point. Very excited to see what they have in store for us next year!
@charlottejet43382 жыл бұрын
I recently purchased my first ever Seiko. It's a Presage with an enamel dial. It's not my most expensive watch, but it's beautiful and I'm surprised it actually keeps good time. I wasn't keen on the black crocodile strap it came with so, I put it on a Hirsh Modena, Royal blue with white stitching. I attached the Seiko clasp to it. It's my preferred daily wearer. My next watch purchase will be a Grand Seiko GMT.
@balesjo2 жыл бұрын
I have several of the Presage line. They produce some real beauties with incredible dial designs, and both their enamel and porcelain dials display real craftsmanship to do it right.
@gregfelix69792 жыл бұрын
I have a SBGJ249 GS GMT. You won’t regret it. I travel a lot and it’s superb.
@barfymann3622 жыл бұрын
I wear my SBGJ253 on a Hirch Strap, it's so comfortable. I recently ordered a strap and clasp directly from GS, and it's definitely worth the value. Plus they include a separate warranty for the strap! If you join the GS9 club, you get a Service Rebate of around $ 800 USD for your timepiece.
@gregfelix69792 жыл бұрын
@@barfymann362 - Sounds great. But I don’t think the club is open to join from Australia 😔
@barfymann3622 жыл бұрын
@@gregfelix6979 I lived in Sydney for 16 years! Oh man oh man do I miss it. Nothing but love for Australians. Great country, great people. I have some of my best memories from my time in Australia. Much love!
@adrock3372 жыл бұрын
I have the SBGA407 (skyflake) and it is incredible. I also own a few Rolexes, I’ve gotta say that when you remove the prestige of owning a Rolex, the Skyflake in particular the spring drive movement is superior to Rolex. I love both brands
@jamescgarrett63562 жыл бұрын
These videos, and this format of them, are fast becoming my favourite. This one was outstanding though - great to hear Rob so passionate about the brand, yet stay so honest and humble too. Well done, Sir! Thanks to this Chanel, I am now the proud owner of two 9F Grand Seiko watches, spring-drive for me next, definitely. Keep up the great videos and keep well :-)
@georgegopiao44112 жыл бұрын
My collection has evolved over the years. Now, Grand Seiko is the only brand that I have more than 1. That said, I think I’m the only one that doesn’t have a gripe about the bracelets. I truly believe that you get a lot more watch for the price with any of their models.
@jpdemer52 жыл бұрын
I have one of the quartz models, and the accuracy is phenomenal - It's gained about a second over six months. That, plus a flat-out gorgeous dial - you can't ask for more in a watch, unless of course you get your jollies from having an elaborate, retro mechanical contraption hidden inside. I just want it to work well and look good, and I'm just as happy with technical wizardry as I am with the mechanical variety.
@ayoungtricknamedjim54982 жыл бұрын
Naa dawgy
@sotecluxan42212 жыл бұрын
What movement, how much?
@jpdemer52 жыл бұрын
@@sotecluxan42219F85 caliber, but enhanced with a specially-selected quartz crystal. I think it's in all the GS quartz models.
@Mysteryboy00072 жыл бұрын
Get a spring drive you scrub
@jpdemer52 жыл бұрын
@@Mysteryboy0007 Instead of three gorgeous quartz models for the same money? Not a chance. Hope you like the one watch you were able to buy!
@alanmckinnon67912 жыл бұрын
11:40 I've seen this sequence so many times already, a reflection of a reflection on the *underside* of the second hand. And every time I see it my mind is blown again
@House_Of_Cards_ Жыл бұрын
But why they keep raising prices? What has changed? Has the quality increased or we are paying for their marketing campaigns?
@sylinmino2 жыл бұрын
Rob is right that the brand *is* listening with regards to bracelets. They do still need some work, but I own a 2020 GS Shunbun and a 2022 Evo9 Chronograph GMT, and the difference in bracelet quality is staggering. More solidity, better comfort, more aesthetically consistent with the case. Is it perfect? No, but it's a noticeable improvement.
@MrJnrc2 жыл бұрын
I have a shunbun, put it on a ox blood red leather strap, now all is good.
@sylinmino2 жыл бұрын
@@MrJnrc I tried finding a strap for mine for a while but just went back to bracelet. Even if it's not the best looker, it's so dang comfortable and I like that I can wear it in any weather conditions and in water (which I can't do with leather). It's easily my most comfortable watch, and I own a Rolex BLRO on Oyster.
@ChisholmHunterOfficial2 жыл бұрын
Grand Seiko is epic! So underrated.
@mihailstoyanov36062 жыл бұрын
Grand Seiko hasn't been underrated in years mate. :D
@maxp54222 жыл бұрын
As is seiko in my opinion
@hgodden2692 жыл бұрын
Grand Seiko is the brand of watch maker for me. The whole ethos speaks to me. Quiet class. Even the draw of AP as I am descended from the Piguet family, has not drawn me to them over GS (I am sure it will one day). Love the dials, love the history, love the culture.
@ivangamer80222 жыл бұрын
''grand'' seiko is a literal joke. the symbol: european lion. fonts: german. origine: a cheap asian plastic watches factory. grand: latin word only retards will pay big money for this japanes car grab thing with quartz movement lol. there'se nothing original and japanese
@hgodden2692 жыл бұрын
@@ivangamer8022 well I suppose you have your opinion as to what is good and I have mine.
@kerrybayton29542 жыл бұрын
I used to collect & wear swiss watches, i had eight before buying my first Seiko.. Now i still have the swiss watches but i now have a lord marvel, two vintage king seiko chronometers, four vintage grand seiko & two modern GS & one is quartz. They are fantastic watches regardless of type. The show is great. Thank you..
@aindriubradleymarshall62262 жыл бұрын
I'm old enough to recall "Made in Japan" being derided. I've loved Japanese technology for decades whether knives, cars, cameras or watches. No one makes better denim than the Japanese.
@Roughdraft2142 жыл бұрын
Wow! Love to see all the GS appreciation in the comments section. I only buy and wear GS, so that should speak for itself but it’s hard to find good GS social circles so I’m loving the attention they have gotten here, not just with this video but overall. This has become one of my favorite KZbin channels!
@inscrutablechicken2 жыл бұрын
The bracelets are very good, if a little unimaginative. The gripes that people typically have is on the lack of micro adjustment on the clasps (or the clunkiness and lack of elegance of the diver clasp that does have micro adjustment).
@mplsmnpi2 жыл бұрын
Okay, I have two grand seikos and 4 seikos and the bracelets aren't good.. I'm sorry to say
@inscrutablechicken2 жыл бұрын
@@mplsmnpi leave the Seikos out of the conversation as they are lower priced and unfair to compare them. GS mostly use the same three bracelet designs (3 segment, 5 segment and 5 segment with polished intermediates) across all of their models, which is why I said they were unimaginative. However, they are very comfortable (with the intermediate links allowing flexibility for resizing), well finished and look as good as a Rolex Oyster bracelet. Where they disappoint is in the clasps which (mostly) don't have micro-adjustment and aren't particularly elegant.
@mplsmnpi2 жыл бұрын
@@inscrutablechicken no no no.. hair pullers at the best.
@Roughdraft2142 жыл бұрын
I found that you can fine tune them without micro adjustments. They’re half links are liken 3/4 links so if you play with full and half links you get a few mm difference just like with micro adjustments. I love their claps which feel non existent, unlike the bulky longer clasps that are impossible to use at a desk.
@richardnedbalek19682 жыл бұрын
Great having a company rep on the vid! Enjoyed the insights.
@kaynejk96292 жыл бұрын
What’s the mantainance like for these watches ? I read that the servicing of the Spring Drive needs to be done every 4 years.. and that it costs 1000$.. not including the shipping cost to Japan.. which is quite a bit.. Would appreciate your thoughts on that..
@alphamrc3092 жыл бұрын
The B-roll shot at 11:35 is a thing of beauty!
@ANTREU96 Жыл бұрын
I am a total newbie in the watch world, never having owned a "real watch" and being priced out of many watches. I am planning to start with a seiko when I can afford it and I think if I ever can afford one a grand seiko will be one of my first luxury watches
@Michael-Gill2 жыл бұрын
The Sk007 rekindled my love for watches. A year before the pandemic I was in a position to finally buy a luxury watch, and I went with the sbga231. I'm that guy who commits to one watch that becomes "his". I have a one watch collection. I'm not afraid to do activities and I'll never sell it. Almost 5 years later and I still find myself mesmerized by the sweep at least once per day. I would have picked a Breitling Navitimer, but its water rating was a deal breaker and Rolex movement seemed last century compared to the spring drive.
@icthys20242 жыл бұрын
i bought my first grand seiko a few months ago, a 9f quartz gmt, its a beautiful watch, its rated +/- 10 seconds a year but after 3 months its barely off by one second.
@JohnWhiting-jh3sr2 жыл бұрын
I love Seiko when I was young and have so many that I lost count. Then I found GS and love the spring drive. I bought my first spring drive GMT in Hong Kong GS boutique when i was in business trip there. It was my last day for the trip. As I trusted the quality from GS. I didn't check the watch in details. When I back in UK and enjoyed the details of the watch, found that the hands not aligned at all. I emailed the Hong Kong GS boutique, they didn't bother to reply my email. So, I went to the London GS boutique and discussed the issue with them, they admitted the watch was no good and offered me the repair. I am not happy having a new watch to be repaired. Eventually, the manager contacted the head office in Japan. Then, they offered an exchange. Long story short, I am happy with the help by the manager but with too much trouble to deal with the issue. I like GS but with that experience, I spent half an hour to check the watch before I pay for it for my second GS. I still love my GS and plan to get another one soon and must be with thorough checking.
@tiberiusn46212 жыл бұрын
I own one and it truly is grand, pun intended. The answers were a lesson in good marketing and connecting with the enthusiast community.
@cmb19722 жыл бұрын
I am a Seikoholic and collect vintage pieces going back to 1962, love the look of these Grand Seiko, but find the modern Seiko watches are not up to scratch with misaligned chapter rings and bezel inserts. These issues need to be resolved.
@tjonesmd20002 жыл бұрын
From a collector’s perspective, GS brings a tremendous amount to the proverbial table. I appreciate the ingenuity and precision of the Spring Drive movement, the artisanal quality of their dials, and the refinement of their cases, specifically the new Evolution 9 cases. All of this delivered for a relative bargain, especially when compared to many of their Swiss counterparts. I agree with Andrew, however. If GS were to improve the quality of their bracelets to a level comparable to some of their market competitors (Glashutte Original, IWC, Tudor, Rolex, Blancpain, etc) while maintaining their price points, it would only serve to make an already comprehensively valuable product even more desirable.
@180mph9 Жыл бұрын
I’m kind of a beginner watch collector and I was fascinated by some of the watch repair videos, I ended up buying a timegrapher to evaluate the condition of my 3 automatic Swiss made watches, and delving further into the subject of calibre’s, third party etc, I was further enlightened to the different types of calibre’s. Of course this led me straight to the Spring Drive, I was fascinated that I knew nothing about it. As an owner of 3 high end Rolex automatics, I appreciate the workmanship and precision of the 3055 and 3135 calibre’s. So I continued to study Seiko via Teddy Baldassarre and then it was just a matter of which one I was going to purchase. 😊 I haven’t even received it yet, but I’m very excited, I chose the SBGA 427, pure class, inside and out, I have no doubt in my mind that one Seiko will not be enough, thank you so much Seiko!
@mrmyc0rn840 Жыл бұрын
Oh, sure, Grand Seiko has Spring Drive, zaratsu polishing and all, but Rolex has puzzle pieces and polks dots!
@zambonidriver42 Жыл бұрын
Years back, I remember first looking at GS. The AD showed me a Snowflake, talked a little about the Spring Drive, and I knew I’d be buying a Spring Drive for my first GS. And when I saw the Cherry Blossom, that was it. Took it home. Fantastic. As for Rob’s answer regarding bracelets, GS is slow to fix their bracelet issues, and that’s disappointing. I do think GS could do much better. The Swiss, in general, have them beat. Take for example my Cherry Blossom bracelet, the finishing is great. But no micro adjustment? Every watch I own, I’m usually 2 links each side, and one micro-adjustment to get a good fit. The Cherry Blossom, I got really lucky. 2 links each side was perfect. But if it hadn’t fit, I would have had to try a half link, which likely would have been too loose. And if that didn’t work, I would have walked away, irritated, disappointed. I really, really appreciate Tudor’s T-clasp. You would think GS would invest more resources to get perfect fit every time, plus some adjustability throughout the day.
@martinbishop29662 жыл бұрын
I have a Grand Seiko SBGA 283G spring drive, I can honestly that this is the best watch I have ever owned. I have Rolex and Omega in my collection as well but they do not come close. to the fit and finish of the GS plus the accuracy of spring drive.🙂
@hughcamp27302 жыл бұрын
I have the same model. I've owned it 5 years and have had no issues. It's running +4 seconds per 3 months. Awesome watch
@davidwatkinson75522 жыл бұрын
I dislike the quartz tick but the GS version addresses all my concerns and is also hypnotic. The spring drive version is simply magical. My watches take the odd knock which I means I am too 'clumsy' to wear these high end and high value watches. Perhaps in another life.
@balesjo2 жыл бұрын
One these videos, I almost become hypnotized watching the smooth movement of the second hand as it makes its way around the dial.
@dannysimenauer5745 Жыл бұрын
Andrew asked the questions/objections about Grand Seiko that were on top of everyone's minds, and Rob Brook addressed each one well. It was great to hear that Grand Seiko is aware of the poor perception of the bracelet, but I am surprised it has been over a year with no "next gen" bracelet rolled out yet. I own a GS Heritage and absolutely love it!
@niceguy1000002 жыл бұрын
Seiko, please bring solar and perpetual calendar to Grand Seiko quartz!
@statlerwaldorf71302 жыл бұрын
Excellent interview chaps, thanks very much for getting representatives from these brands to come on and chat about them.
@LambGiles2 жыл бұрын
I think if Grand Seiko Japan listened to this interview, they'd be pretty chuffed with the way Rob conducted himself and answered those questions! He sounds like a god guy to head up GS UK !!
@neilpattinson4452 жыл бұрын
I think the GS’s are a work of art. Stunning dials, exceptional movements, but bracelets let them down and the point you loose half the value as soon as you walk out of the shop. I do have 2x seiko’s In my collection but no GS, yet!
@jpdemer52 жыл бұрын
Depends entirely on the model. Mine is worth more than I paid for it, and I paid retail.
@Dsnipez182 жыл бұрын
@@jpdemer5 what model do you have then?
@Javiermanftw2 жыл бұрын
I have seen variety overall in terms of pricing for certain GS in my research. I have some Seikos and dove into GS and honestly the prices on used seikos are about average depreciation for any luxury watch. I will also caveat that supply and demand rules apply to any watch so if you want additional insurance perhaps just get a more limited model.
@jpdemer52 жыл бұрын
@@Dsnipez18 SBGP017 ("Sea of Clouds"). It's a limited edition, which raises the market value.
@richardthomlinson91372 жыл бұрын
Can you please tell me what is the reference for the GMT model featured in this video. thank you!
@KC93SE2 жыл бұрын
When it comes to badging "Seiko/Grand Seiko", if you consider it to be akin to how General Motors puts a little "GM" badge on their cars (Corvette included), then you won't like Seiko in this regard. Cheapness, poor quality, design by committee are certainly GM traits, but for Seiko, it appears to be the exact opposite. Mr Brook brought up excellent points in terms of being proud of their heritage, their successes, and unique traits that set Seiko apart from other brands.
@richardthompson17812 жыл бұрын
I have a Seiko spring drive GMT, 20Bar +3sd, my Omega Seamaster 30Bar GMT keeps better time at +1sd, I was disappointed in the Seiko spring drive....
@av8ordoc4802 жыл бұрын
Love my SBGJ227 Peacock GMT model! It reminds me of the 6 months I lived in Japan while deployed with the military there. Such great craftmanship! I also love my Japanese fountain pens! The world is such a big place; there is plenty of room for high end Swiss and Japanese watches! :D
@MrKkramme8 ай бұрын
Good video. Thanks. I went to the Grand Seiko Shizukuishi Studio in northern Honshu, Japan, and was similarly impressed by the genuine appreciation of nature including the snow on Mt Awate, the white birch, etc.
@beardymcbeardface692 жыл бұрын
I love the Grand Seiko offerings, but recently while weighing Grand Seiko against Omega, I decided to go Omega. As much as I very much want a Spring Drive based watch. If the brand recommended maintenance intervals are adhered to, then the current model Omega Co-Axial watches are significantly cheaper to maintain than similar Grand Seiko models. Grand Seiko has recommended 2-4 years service intervals, between Hi-Beat and Spring Drive movements respectively, whereas Omega has recommended 7-8 years service interval for their newer Co-Axial movements. With Grand Seiko I need to have the watch sent back to Japan and it can take 2-3 months to get it back, whereas Omega can be serviced locally for me via local Omega service centres. I've heard anecdotal evidence that numerous Spring Drive movements have lasted much longer between service intervals, but I've also anecdotally heard of units failing at around 8 years (running very slow or not at all). There's also something about a purely mechanical watch which is as accurate as the newer Omega Co-Axials. I'm hearing from a number of people that their watches have been running +/- 1 second per day for years, even with some people getting sub 1 second per day. I know I can't expect that, given that the spec is +0 - +5 seconds per day, but even then... WOW! That's purely mechanical and matching what Grand Seiko advertises for most of their Spring Drive models (yes, I know in reality they tend to run much better than this).
@arkachatterjee51792 жыл бұрын
Omegas are great. I love them and own several. But their accuracy isn’t comparable to a GS spring drive. Not even close really. Omega METAS certified movements have accuracy comparable to Rolex or JLC, but GS spring drive (particularly the 9RA2) is not comparable. One example I have with that movement hasn’t lost or gained a single second since I bought and set it a year ago.
@nash96252 жыл бұрын
@@arkachatterjee5179 agreed the spring drive is obviously insanely accurate, and I do love GS, but if I was making a first purchase all over again I'd probably go omega too. I think if someone is trying to have a minimal collection an AT is superb. By far my two favorite brands and a couple of my Omegas average +1-+2 a week plus for me the magnetic aspect is huge (which is also above avg in GS models). Needless to say - OP picked, imo, the best two to decide between
@gg.komorebi Жыл бұрын
the bracelets from GS are very good. what is not so good is that the watches do not have quick micro adjustment
@Miroslaw-rs8ip4 ай бұрын
While I am interested in a spring drive, I’m curious about the service! I heard that the spring drive watches need to be shipped to Japan and this takes a long time. The other concern I have is the resale value, these watches take a huge hit on the secondary market.
@JDMism2 жыл бұрын
I am new to watches, and my experience with the Grand Seiko boutique staff and the watches themselves has been fantastic.
@tiagomendesbaiao8112 жыл бұрын
Can someone please tell me which model is displayed from 5:35? It's obviously a quartz movement, but I cannot find the reference.
@Koishishibaman2 жыл бұрын
My first Seiko was a gold colored quartz dress watch my wife bought for me 40 yrs ago. Quite expensive for us at the time. Still works well. A sks009 rekindled my love for watches. I have monsters, turtles, samurai, shoguns, sumo, Willard, sarx, and a special black lacquer dial presage. Recently bought a red dial king Seiko. Stunner! Love the brand. I own a sbga429, sbga413, and a quartz sbgp017. All amazing watches! Some day I will buy another. Can't beat the quality and accuracy.
@Koishishibaman2 жыл бұрын
I grow cherry trees and other plants. Had to have the sbga413! Love GS reference to nature when describing their watches
@robertsilvestri32542 жыл бұрын
I’ve had Seiko’s for years and have always admired Grand Seiko, I finally purchased one ( Evolution 9 Spring Drive Diver ) and I love it. I can’t see me having anything other than a Grand Seiko to be honest.
@MERKAMGCLK2 жыл бұрын
I love seeing another SBGV245. It is one of the best watches I have ever owned.
@nameless_no_name11 ай бұрын
I am waiting for my Rolex 41, 126333, Blk, and digits (if it ever comes....?). I got sick of the Rolex mind games and bought a GS Sky Flake.... wow! Yes, it does not have the cache' and stopping power of a Roli... but WOW! The spring drive under the hood is pretty amazing. It is a VERY elegant watch and I may (possibly) have second thoughts on the 126333 The only issue so far is the name.... Grand Seiko is sort of like calling a Lexus a Grand Toyota
@srr37152 жыл бұрын
Does anybody know the model of the first watch show at 0:15 in the video?
@ge484212 жыл бұрын
One question I have: could Spring Drive be married to the thermal compensation used in the 9F movements? A spring drive accurate to 10 seconds per year would be interesting to say the least. I have a GS quartz GMT, it's a great watch, but I have to agree on the bracelet issue, it need some microadjustment, when it's 43C out here I can't wear it. It's also a scratch magnet, I'd trade a little Zaratsu polish quality for some hardening/coating. I wear the watch anyway, scratches or not, I did not buy it to sit in a watch box.
@miken20762 жыл бұрын
The Evolution 9 springdrive movement does have temperature compensation and in my experience is more accurate than the previous generation.
@ge484212 жыл бұрын
@@miken2076 Thanks, did not know that.
@miken20762 жыл бұрын
@@ge48421 I don’t think the compensation is up to the 9F. The power consumption is limited compared to using a battery. Still, it’s impressive that they were able to design a chip that could do it using Spring Drive
@ge484212 жыл бұрын
@@miken2076 Yes, the power available is really low. The 9RA5 spring drive movement is rated at 10 seconds per month, only a slight improvement over the standard 15 seconds, I have not found a more accurate spring drive movement.
@gustavrsh2 жыл бұрын
I'm a proud owner of a grand Seiko... 5. Hopefully I get to own a GS someday, specifically a Spring Drive.
@truxton10002 жыл бұрын
I strongly dislike how GS put that little power reserve hand on the dial, it looks so untidy, put it on the other side if it's needed. My next GS will be a SBGW231....
@HabuBeemer2 жыл бұрын
Excellent commentary. The Japanese are the ultimate in quality and integrity in everything they do from farming, textiles, woodworking, aquaculture, food, cars, the list goes on. It's no surprise that they incorporate their work ethic into watches and have since the 1950's. I do not own a Grand Seiko (yet) but I have other Seiko's in the automatic movements and they (in my opinion) offer the best value for the money spent. I have friends who own Grand Seiko both in the quartz and spring drive versions so I've witnessed them up close and personal. Stunning to be sure and on the bucket list. Thank you for a great presentation on these fine watches. Beauty and value are always in the eye of the beholder of course, but these are not to be ignored if you're looking for a high end watch.
@pohjoel12 жыл бұрын
I got myself a SLGA009 and never looked back since. I hope that they would taper the bracelet narrower towards the clasp to make it a bit more elegant, to match the beautiful dials and exquisite Spring Drive movement.
@fraybentos9854 Жыл бұрын
I'm obsessed with that thing, I see a couple available around $7,000 new/unused...that kind of discount is outrageous. Should I pull the trigger?
@GamingKav Жыл бұрын
I adore the Omiwatari, it’s the most beautiful watch I’ve laid my eyes upon!
@iliasanastasiadis76582 жыл бұрын
GS' Achilles heel is the bracelets. If they figure out something unique like Royal Oaks bracelet or Daydates bracelet, it's gonna put a lot of points to the company. I personally enjoy my 2 GSs and I put a strap to the one because it looks better.
@betochiwas2 жыл бұрын
Snowflake belongs to a Strap!
@mplsmnpi2 жыл бұрын
I agree..
@TheSnookerGym2 жыл бұрын
Thank you Rob - lover your enthusiasm and I really enjoyed Yorkshire fused with Tokyo!
@TheSnookerGym2 жыл бұрын
Rob, how do they decide on the next dial surface - and how do they make them?!
@Gigsy632 жыл бұрын
Absolutely fantastic spokesperson.
@shiraz17362 жыл бұрын
What about why there isn't more 39-41mm sports watches and more 36-38mm dress watches. And surly the old get rid of the winding indicator on the dial comes up a fair bit?
@Sportvent2 жыл бұрын
Why is the power reserve upside down though? That's my only question.
@balesjo2 жыл бұрын
I didn't see a GS in the video that I didn't like, but there was the one with the dark blue dial that was a real eye catcher! I also like the ones with a simple dial with no date window. My only negative comment is that sometimes the power indicator throws off the balance of the dial design and is distracting. But it wouldn't necessarily be a deal breaker. I like how Seiko did the power indicator on some of the Presage line where the indicator is not a cut-out like on the GS but is worked into the design of the watch. It's there when you look for it but otherwise fades into the design.
@AbysswalkerASMR2 жыл бұрын
I feel the same way, so I'm glad they put the power reserve indicator to the back in their caliber 9RA2. Much cleaner dial, but that's personal preference of course :-)
@mell31092 жыл бұрын
Really liking this format, great video. It would have been good if it was a lot longer, showed the people involved and discussed the watches
@kasiosag2 жыл бұрын
Hi Does anyone know the name of the watch with the lettering on the dial at 1534?
@raycollington43102 жыл бұрын
I would like a 9F but the three year battery life in a country like UK with no quality local battery service puts me off. I don't want to send it away ever three years. The Astron range also makes me think. I will buy a Grand Seiko but I can't decide which one. Thank you.
@SuperExadidas9 күн бұрын
Great review. Is there any review of Caliber 9R65? I plan to buy my first Grand Seiko. Thank you.
@Klingonmastr2 жыл бұрын
Generally speaking both Seiko and Grand Seiko makes a lot of great watches even if the movement and watch band isn't that great. I'd rather just save some money and buy a Seiko Presage Sharp Edge watch instead. They sure do know how to make a watch with a beautiful looking dial. Many similarly priced Tissot and Mido watches look a bit boring.
@sean5502 жыл бұрын
Ask him if you can contact him ...when are they going to add micro adjustment to braclets..They would sell more if they did.
@AtillatheFun2 жыл бұрын
The only quartz I would ever consider buying is a Grand Seiko. They are accurate and beautiful.
@Henk-0072 жыл бұрын
Great video ! What would break Rob is the explanation of the modelnumbers, I think. 😵💫
@joecognac37912 жыл бұрын
A great video from my favorite watch channel about my favorite brand. It doesn’t get better than this!
@ncode03 Жыл бұрын
The fact that the Europeans completely stopped the competition that has taken place for many years the moment they saw what Seiko can do and it's potential to dominate the competition is enough telling that how great Seiko as a fine watchmaker and it's heritage is.
@1itim4 ай бұрын
Hey it would be great if you could put the number of the watch on the screen with the picture; sbga211 etc
@ArijitAcharyaa2 жыл бұрын
What happened to the wooden table, great background music and great presentation?
@Kenji-Tsuyoi Жыл бұрын
Love my Grand Seiko Taisetsu, the finish is miles above any of my Switzerland watches
@Jason_Quinn2 жыл бұрын
To the best of my knowledge, the new Grand Seiko Kodo SLGT001 is the first skeleton dial they have produced. Why doesn't GS create Skeletonized watches?
@al764842 жыл бұрын
You guys have done it again. Such an amazing video. Thank you
@botanicbulls170 Жыл бұрын
My GS SLGA001 is a disappointment as the bezel and dial do not Aline for the money I could of brought 2 Omegas
@howardmckenna Жыл бұрын
As a huge car guy I see GS as being like the upstart Lamborghini as opposed to the establishment Swiss watches being more Ferrari.
@jonathankinread29572 жыл бұрын
When can we expect micro adjustment on the metal straps? Otherwise thoroughly pleased with my spring drive
@silverhawk9112 жыл бұрын
I think Grand Seiko is the ultimate in watch making, in terms of the Zaratsu polishing,finishing and design of the dials, polished hands, indices and pure perfection in craftsmanship and advanced technology in their watch movement and best part of all, everything is made in house in Japan as opposed to Swiss made watches where not all parts are made in Switzerland, watch movements and watch casing may be in Switzerland but there is a possibility of bracelets and watch casing made elsewhere and likely not in Switzerland. So you don’t really get a 100% Swiss made watch. Now that is a great bummer,
@elcoya2 жыл бұрын
How shock proof is the Spring Drive? Can it be used on the golf course?
@vulpinish2 жыл бұрын
A question for a followup, why does GS "region lock" some limited editions (urban bamboo and other colour variants)? I know many reasons why at the Seiko level they would, but at the upper end of the luxury market not done as frequently, if at all , by it's competitors Rolex, Omega etc.
@skeelo692 жыл бұрын
The watch face on the snowflake is too cluttered, if it were up to me .... Remove the word SEIKO from under the 12 , replace with the letters GS , above the 6 , use the words Spring Drive and below that Hi Beat 36000 , there you go !
@billnichols48212 жыл бұрын
I own a GS SBGA469 and LOVE it. I wish I could order a GS strap online and not have to go to a boutique.
@gg.komorebi2 жыл бұрын
❤GS ❤ Spring Drive Movements are the best Watch Technology 👌
@ABCdotcom Жыл бұрын
I love Grand Seiko, they do proper innovation, have excellent finishing and unique designs. The sweep of the second hand of the Spring Drive movement is so therapeutic to look at! The attention to detail by bevelling the liner lugs to prevent chafing of the skin. The smoothness of the lugs and case sides is also what I love - no sharpness on the corners and edges. I do wish their clasps had more microadjustment capability...
@Sportvent2 жыл бұрын
The Spring Drive is magic on a wrist. I have the SBGC 201.
@wmno3620 Жыл бұрын
please make a left-hand Grand Seiko GMT Spring drive !!!!!
@Lintybaybay2 жыл бұрын
Beautiful watches… do they have any minute repeaters though? 🤔
@simsees60112 жыл бұрын
Yes, credor spring drive minute repeater, its amazing!