Grand Seiko is, above all, a brand of subtleties. There is a good reason for that, as they invest so much time, effort, and resources to perfect every single detail so that even a subtle watch becomes extraordinary. It is also a sign of modesty, not to boast, but to simply enjoy creating something extraordinary that connoisseurs highly value and appreciate. The latest highlight representing this unique spirit is, without a doubt, the new Heritage Collection Seiko 140th Anniversary Limited Edition SLGH007.

Japan is a country blessed with stunning natural beauty. No wonder that also the designers of Grand Seiko find their inspiration there. Close to their studio, there are white birch tree forests. They provide a beautiful yet mystical atmosphere, in part because of the distinct bark of these trees.

With Valentine's day around the corner, now is the time to surprise your loved one with a gift that lasts a lifetime, like a watch. While it can witness, and time, all the precious moments you spend together, finding the right one can be a bit of a challenge. Here are four exciting options that all, each in their own way, represent qualities that also can be found in love.

In many ways, 2020 was not an ordinary year. The Covid-19 pandemic left its marks everywhere. Lockdowns not only slowed down international travel but also confined us more and more into our own direct surroundings. This required tremendous perseverance and ingenuity to keep businesses afloat and remain in contact with those that matter. At first, it looked like the watch industry would take a direct hit. Jewelers worldwide were forced to close their doors, trade shows where canceled, and even many manufactures had to stop production for a while due to the Covid-19 outbreak in Switzerland. But as the pandemic continued, the market recovered. Jewelers sold more online than ever before, with a strong demand for the latest models and an intensified interest in vintage watches. Many watch brands had already planned their releases for this year prior to the Covid-19 outbreak, so the effect on that will be more visible next year. However, 2020 was a year worthwhile in watchmaking, of which the following were amongst the hottest releases.

After achieving significant success in Japan, Grand Seiko is now launching the elite GS9 Club in the United States. This is more than a club of like-minded individuals, as Grand Seiko gives them access to exclusive content, special events, and unique gifts. Membership can be obtained by purchasing a Grand Seiko from one of the brand's boutiques and register the watch. While the club is currently online-only, as soon as it is safe again, it will also include real-life events in which the members will be submerged in Grand Seiko's rich traditions and craftsmanship. To mark this unique milestone, Grand Seiko is also launching a new limited edition for the US market, the SBGE263, which will be exclusively available to GS9 Club members first.

This year, it was 160 years ago that the founder of (Grand) Seiko was born in central Tokyo. Kintaro Hattori was a visionary who recognized that Japan's rapid modernization and its increasingly outward focus to the rest of the world was an opportune time to found a company of his own. He did so in 1881, at the age of 21, focussing initially on importing timepieces, but later would start producing them himself. With this, he laid the foundation for one of the most formidable brands in watchmaking.

"Iron Chef" Masaharu Morimoto opens up about his love of watches and closing his signature eponymous upscale Manhattan eatery.

While tradition is cherished within Japanese tradition, they always use it as an inspiration for the future. This is all the more true for Grand Seiko, which is celebrating this year its 60th anniversary. The brand is not resting on its laurels because of this but uses this special occasion to show how far they have come in the last six decades, and their ambition to go even further. The new Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph GMT 60th Anniversary Limited Edition is the perfect example of this.

Few brands are thriving like Grand Seiko. Not only is the brand capturing more and more hearts of watch enthusiasts around the world and expanding their collection with innovative new models, but they also opened a new flagship boutique at Place Vendome in the middle of Paris. Their technical prowess is significant, but only rarely expressed in the field of high complications. Under the Credor brand, Grand Seiko released in the past a Grand Sonnerie, Minute Repeater, and a tourbillon, but those were all very limited in production. As the reputation of Grand Seiko is growing, so is the demand for higher-end pieces. With the new T0 Constant-force Tourbillon, Grand Seiko is making a promise to that.

Platinum has the reputation of being the most prized of all the precious metals. In luxury watchmaking, it is often only used for top-of-the-line models. Here they often create a contradiction, as the appearance of polished platinum is rather understated. Grand Seiko takes a different approach for their Grand Seiko Elegance SBGZ001, which is crafted in their renowned Micro Artist Studio.

As the stores in SoHo open again, Grand Seiko and Watches of Switzerland offer an experience that allows you to submerge yourself in the world of this iconic Japanese brand. What makes the 'Nature of Time' so special is that it brings

The beauty of a Grand Seiko can always be found in its subtleties. The brand invests a tremendous amount of time and effort into the smallest detail. This not only gives their watches a timeless appearance but also makes them a pure joy to have on the wrist. The wearing comfort is superb, and every day you can enjoy the refined details that make owning a Grand Seiko so special. This is also the case with the two new special editions which the brand just launched for the US market.

At Place Vendôme, the horological heart of Paris, has Grand Seiko opened its largest boutique in the world. While outside the hustle and bustle of the French capital rules, inside you can find the tranquility of Japan. Grand Seiko is offering its finest models in the over 2,000 square feet boutique, divided over two floors.

Haute Time had the privilege of talking with David Hurley, Executive Vice-President of Watches of Switzerland, as he gives us a candid insight into some of his favorites among the recent introductions;

Today Grand Seiko launched in collaboration with Watches of Switzerland an exciting new watch, the Toge Special Edition, that embodies elements from both Japan, as well as the United Kingdom, the home country of the watch retailer. It features many unique elements, most noticeably its dial, which has Grand Seiko's signature Mount Iwate motif, yet now in British racing green. It is combined with a warm gold tone for the GMT-function, which gives the watch a dynamic appearance, as well as making it very easy to read.

In light of the global COVID-19 outbreak, Watches of Switzerland Group has closed all retail stores, but has rolled out new online purchasing services.