Grand Seiko Just Dropped Three US Exclusive Watches — And They’re Extremely Hot

Grand Seiko — in a very nonchalant manner — just dropped three haute new timepieces that fall within their Heritage Collection.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko

As with all Grand Seiko watch inspiration, these three models have quite the origin story. Inspired by the katana, a globally renowned masterpiece of steel, Grand Seiko pays homage to this art form by introducing three U.S.-exclusive models, drawing inspiration from the katana’s materials and precision. Originating as a fusion of nature and craftsmanship, the katana’s raw elements—earth, fire, water, and air—are transformed into the famed tamahagane Japanese steel through a meticulous process. The three new timepieces echo the katana’s strength, tenacity, and elegance in their design and technical prowess.

Crafting a katana involves meticulous forging, heating, folding, and quenching. Similarly, Grand Seiko’s Zaratsu polishing technique, used to shape the 44GS design, requires skilled hands to achieve the perfect mirror finish. This parallel craftsmanship connects the creation of both the katana and the watch case, resonating with the soul of both art forms.

The SBGA489 model’s black dial is an homage to the hardness and allure of kawagane—the high carbon steel used in the outer sharp edge of the katana—while the SBGA491’s dark green dial symbolizes the resilience and strength of shingane, the blade’s inner core. Both models evoke the unique texture of tamahagane and the distinctive patterns of traditional katana swords.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko

A limited edition of 500, the SBGA493 pays tribute to the forge’s spirit, expressing the determination and fiery energy required to craft the blade. The deep red dial with yellow gold-tone accents mirrors the heated blade’s intense forging process, while its pattern recalls the sparks that fly as the hammer strikes the blade.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko

Measuring 40mm in diameter, 12.5mm in thickness, and 46.2mm in length, all three models feature a stainless steel bracelet with a three-fold clasp, dual curve sapphire crystal, and an exhibition case back showcasing the Spring Drive Automatic Caliber 9R65. With a power reserve of 72 hours, 30 jewels, and an accuracy of ±1 second per day (±15 seconds per month), Caliber 9R65 ensures exceptional timekeeping performance.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko

The SBGA489 and SBGA491 models will be available for $5,600 starting in August, while the SBGA493 will debut in September at $6,000. These exclusive timepieces will be offered solely at Grand Seiko Boutiques, the Grand Seiko Boutique Online, and select Grand Seiko Authorized Retailers in the United States.