In celebration of 50 years of a Japanese automotive icon, the Nissan GT-R, Grand Seiko is releasing a new Spring Drive-powered chronograph, dubbed the SBGC229. As Grand Seiko also happens to be celebrating 20 years of the Spring Drive, the timing is fortuitous.
Housed in a combination 46.4mm titanium-and-ceramic case, the SBGC229 features a column wheel-controlled mechanical chronograph movement with three-day power reserve, GMT complication and power reserve indicator. Being that this is a Spring Drive movement, however, the movement also utilizes a unique control mechanism that incorporates an integrated circuit, an electronic “brake” and a quartz crystal, resulting in accuracy of roughly ±10 seconds per month and a seconds hand whose movement appears almost as fluid as that of an entirely mechanical watch.
Taking inspiration from the “Bayside Blue” color of the Nissan GT-R, the SBGC229’s case features blue ceramic modules affixed to a central titanium mid-case and a grained, silver-white dial with black and blue accents. The watch ships on a white croc strap with blue stitching and is limited to 200 pieces, with availability from June 2019 at select G.S. and Seiko boutiques and selected retail partners. The price is approximately $24,300, however, so you may be forced to choose between the watch and paying off your new GT-R.
Gear Patrol also recommends:
TAG Heuer Formnula 1 ($1,600)
Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Watch ($2,195)
Grand Seiko SBGC231 Chronograph ($12,900)
Gear PatrolThe best way to catch up on the day’s most important product releases and stories. Read the Story