Grand Seiko’s 7 Best Dials Ever
Grand Seiko’s reputation as a maker of world-class precision watches is well earned. For true watch aficionados, however, Grand Seiko is just as celebrated for the exquisite beauty and design of their watch dials. Here, we celebrate their seven best, most impressive dials of all time.
“Snowflake” SBGA211
A high-intensity titanium case is the perfect frame to showcase the pure, snow white dial of the Grand Seiko SBGA211 “Snowflake”. The glowing, blue steel second hand glides smoothly over the contrasting white face of the dial, providing a dramatic flourish. The dial also features date and power reserve indicators, and the dual-curved sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective coating on the inner surface.
“Spring” SBGA413
The pink face of this exquisite model captures the spirit of the fleeting sakura season, when the pink sakura blossoms dance on the water in waves of elegance. The striking design features a mirrored, multi-sided case of high-intensity titanium and wide dial opening, with bezel-free construction. Anti-reflective dual curved sapphire glass offers a crystal-clear view of the date and power reserve indicators accenting the dial.
“Whirlpool” SBGH267
The Anniversary Edition SBGH267 “Whirlpool” lives up to its name with a swirling, whirlpool-like patterned face in Grand Seiko’s very own dark blue, highlighted by a sleek Zaratsu polished, stainless steel case. The gold “GS” mark sparkles in brilliant contrast to the deep blue face, bringing an elevated sophistication to an already stellar dial. The dial also features a date indicator.
“Iwate” SBGK005
Part of the Grand Seiko Elegance collection, the SBGK005 “Iwate” is a classic thin dress model with a stainless steel case and anti-reflective dual curved sapphire glass. The deep blue dial face has a textured Mt. Iwate pattern that adds depth and richness to an already beautifully designed timepiece. The dial is also accented by a power reserve indicator and small seconds subdial.
“Kira-zuri” SBGA387
The light blue dial of the SBGA387 is inspired by a Japanese painting technique called Kira-zuri, which translates as “sparkling painting.” This classic technique creates depth and texture for a truly lustrous dial. The perfectly flat, mirror-polished stainless steel case provides a stunning, harmonious setting for the dial. The face of this limited edition watch also features faceted indices, a date window and a dual curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
Sōkō “Shadow” SBGA429
Sōkō, the end of autumn in Japan when the first frost embraces the forest, is celebrated by the Sōkō “Shadow” SBGA429. The green accent colors featured on the seconds hand and power reserve indicator represent the life of the bamboo forest in Kyoto at the end of autumn, and the vertical texture is formed from stalks of bamboo. The stainless steel case works in perfect concert with the “shadow” grey dial which is highlighted by an anti-reflective dual curved sapphire crystal.
“Autumn” SBGH269
Inspired by both the Japanese forests in autumn, and the traditional lacquered wooden floors of Japanese homes, the warm red, brown, and golden tones of the Grand Seiko “Autumn” SBGH269 dial face present a rich, unrivaled elegance. A zaratsu polished stainless steel case highlights the faceted indices and date window. This limited edition timepiece makes a profound statement on any wrist.
Honorable Mention: “White Birch” SBGH005
The elegance and dynamism of the Grand Seiko “White Birch” SLGH005 was inspired by the white birch trees that grow on the alpine slopes near Grand Seiko’s Shizukuishi factory. Metal and textured wood blend in stunning harmony, while electric blue meets soft white in the silver dial. The SLGH005 is both light and sturdy and features Grand Seiko’s Series 9 case, with a sapphire exhibition caseback.
Discover design perfection, and elegance personified, with a new Grand Seiko watch.
About The Author: Jimmy Inglish
Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Jimmy Inglish graduated from UCLA (go Bruins!) and is now a deeply-rooted California transplant. He has been serving as the social media director for Feldmar Watch Company since 2019 and runs the official Instagram page.
An avid watch collector, Jimmy has been building his own collection since 2014. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with his 95-lb German Shepherd/Husky mix, Reginald Wilkerson and posting unique wrist shots to his personal Instagram page, @watchfiend.
Read more from Jimmy Inglish
