Introducing The Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph GMT SBGC253

Grand Seiko‘s offering in the field of chronographs has always been rather unique. First and most importantly, all are powered by the brand’s proprietary hybrid technology, Spring Drive. Second, these are complex watches with more than just a timing device. Last but not least, we’re talking about striking, bold and polarizing models. The brand’s latest creation in this field is not going to change the rules. Inspired by the lion’s mane, this new Spring Drive Chronograph GMT SBGC253 marks the arrival of a sharp and powerful design in the permanent collection. 

The watch that is released by the brand today is based on existing models, watches in limited editions first presented in 2019 with a highly distinct shape, and a texture that is no less striking. First seen with a duo of chronographs (SBGC230 and SBGC231) and a time-and-date model (SBGA403), the style came back in 2020 with a luxurious and limited chronograph, the reference SBGC238. In addition to a bold, ultra-angular case, these watches were characterized by one common element, the pattern found on their dials. Inspired by the lion’s mane, the delicate texture reminds us that the king of all felines is also the brand’s emblem since its creation in 1960.

With the introduction of this new Spring Drive Chronograph GMT SBGC253, the brand launches this powerful design in the mainstream Sport Collection for the first time. No limitation here, it’s a watch that will be part of the permanent collection. As with the previous editions, the case is large and bulky, measuring 44.5mm in diameter and 16.8mm in height. The 50mm L2L measurement, however, shows some effort regarding ergonomy – at least considering the other dimensions. The pushers are large, the crown screws down and the water resistance is rated at 200m.

Now, for this edition, the case is made of high-intensity titanium (grade 5) making this watch about 30% lighter than a stainless steel equivalent. The case has strong facets and combines polished and brushed surfaces. It comes equipped with a fixed 24-hour bezel, coated with LumiBrite, under a sapphire crystal insert. This new SBGC253 is worn on a high-intensity titanium bracelet, closed by a folding clasp with a slide adjuster to enable micro-adjustments.

As said, the lion’s texture is back on the dial, in an ivory-white colour. It’s also a canvas for multiple indications – hours/minutes, 24h additional time zone, chronograph with central seconds, 30-minute and 12-hour counters, small seconds, date and power reserve indicator. The oversized hands and applied markers are all generously coated with LumiBrite. The watch is powered by the Spring Drive calibre 9R86, a column-wheel chronograph with 72h power reserve and an accuracy of ±1 second per day. The movement is visible under the sapphire caseback.

The new Grand Seiko Sport Collection Spring Drive Chronograph GMT SBGC253 will be available in March 2023 at Grand Seiko boutiques and retailers worldwide and priced at EUR 13,400. For more details, please visit www.grand-seiko.com.