No, this piece does NOT belong in the same league as the Swiss heavy hitters, it is in a League ABOVE them! The spring drive blows them away, then they had the balls to make a pink dial men's watch. That piece is just about perfect. IMHO.
No it's not. Way too thick and they look boring from a distance. Everyone is hyped because of these microshots in youtube videos. Until you see them irl in a boutique. They are just boring. Unless you carry a loupe all the time to admire it's details. These GS topics are just one big echo chamber.
Without a doubt, this the best GS review, and Spring Drive explanation on TH-cam. And yes, GS does in fact belong in the same league as Swiss watches. This particular piece is a stunner. Regarding the power indicator: I'm with you. I like it. Watches don't need moonphase complications either, but it's still cool to have.
Man the dial of these gs are definitely cool and inline with the rolex and omegas. Their growing popularity is a indication of that. Fantastic vid as always!
I have this watch and it's amazing! Aside from that, your channel is amazing and I'm happy to be one of the pioneers that's going to get to see you grow in the years to come.
The feedback design of the Spring Drive is a thing of beauty ... it reminds me of the K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system from Bosch from the 1970s.
Just picked this watch up. Can’t stop staring at the dial. I love the weight of it and I could care less about the bracelet. The bracelet feels fine to me and if it comes down to it, I’ll simply throw it on a grey seude strap. Love the video BTW.
Congrats, I think the bracelet has a ways to go to match the craftsman of the watch, which is superb. Feels like a seiko bracelet on a grand seiko head :)
I think this is what separates brands like GS versus Rolex. Whenever describing watches by GS it’s always a caveat. It’s pink but only next to pink. It’s good bracelet but doesn’t taper or in 21mm. It’s good but to appreciate it you need a macro lens. It’s good but could be thinner. Etc. It’s never described as it’s just a beautiful and good watch.
Love the review! I think a lot of people will dismiss Grand Seiko just because it isn't "Swiss." However, after owning multiple Omega's, the finishing on Grand Seiko has always been superior to any of my past Swiss encounters. I still keep my Seamaster because I love the heritage, but I feel like my money goes further with Grand Seiko for the same price. If you ever want to review a 9F Quartz next, you know who to call 😉
Appreciate that Kenneth! I relate to my omegas a lot differently that to this GS. It's very interesting how different companies approach luxury in different ways. Keep me in the loop about your latest GS conquests😉
@@WatchCrunchOfficial agreed 100%! Grand Seiko is taking a different approach, and it's really like comparing Lexus to Mercedes/Audi/etc. There's never a wrong choice, just different strokes for different folks! 😉
The GS CB spring watch is so cool! Great video. I don't own a GS yet but I can see that they are some of the best watches made in the world and grossly underrated. I would also get the titanium. I agree the SD is the best movement out there. Maybe strap companies will start making more 21mm straps? It looked like you were near UW and cherry blossoms but I have not been there in nearly 20 yrs...my home state
As a GS fan, I'm getting kinda tired of hearing "Can they" and "Will they". We already know they CAN and they ARE (arguably according to some). I think the watch media needs to shift the narrative, as GS aren't underdogs anymore. They're just different. That's what matters. They're the "thinking person's choice" if you were.
I'm a watch noob at 40yo... Could never be bothered, even in my ibanking career, to wear a bullshit status symbol. These spring drive gs watches have sparked a true excitement in me for this space. Absolutely spectacular. Separately, I echo the previous comments in saying, that this is the best review video of a gs SD watch I've seen to date. Great work.
As much as I like GS, I think they’re somewhat behind on the material quality front. The bracelet and clasp are a prime example of that. The overall ergonomics seem to be slightly better with Rolex watches
It seems that they are still refining case shapes and bracelet quality. The endlink fitment for example is no where near Rolex. But maybe in 5 years 🤷♂️
Another awesome review man. Great background music and shots with the watch and cherry blossoms works so well together. The animation was informational on how the movement functions. Also cool you threw in the Honda analogy with the NSX.. I was like civic yes, what about th... NSX.. thats the one!
Tell me what better quality or finishing Rolex & Omega deliver over Grand Seiko. Other than marketing and snobbery. Rolexes are bought to impress other people. You buy a GS to impress yourself.
It's an extremely impressive watch. At the same time it hasn't undergone the slow evolution of something like a speedmaster or submariner. Some care about that, others don't.
GS can arguably be said to be in a league all of it's own. It's a much better watch than Rolex (any Rolex). That said, buyers of luxury watches aren't necessarily paying for quality so much as identity. Agree that your explanation of spring drive is spot on. Well done.
Thanks Bill. Yes GS definitely seems to be carving out their own path to luxury and that can be commended. I still think they are working on refining their case design, and just design language in general.
I sold both my Rolexes and just ordered the Sbga413. I think it beats Rolex in every way except brand equity. When it comes to everything else, Rolex can’t win.
GS also have a 4Hz mechanical movement too. The references SBGM221& SBGW258 use variations of it for instance. Anyway, no doubt they’re in the Omega/Rolex league. That’s a no-brainer 😁
GS is an amazing brand and this model is an amazing watch. If they just improve the bracelet and lower the price they would hit it out of the ballpark.
If you wanna get a GS, go for the Hi Beat. Spring Drive is just an upgrade of Seiko Kinetic watches. Spring Drive is like using your left hand, go around/behind your neck to a scratch your right ear. It's very ridiculous. I think Khaby Lame would agree. Btw I bought GS Hi Beat 100% mechanical
The question of whether GS is in the same league as RLX and OGA is the closest thing to blasfhemy in Horoligal...which watch goes longer without in need of Servicing ?. Rolex or GS? This is Horology 101...and the winner is GS. Case Close.
Great cinematography and video. I really take issue with your Honda comparison though, not that there's anything wrong with Honda. Matt Farah (noted car guy), put it best; Seiko is like Lexus. Grand Seiko is like the Lexus LFA. These are watches that are equal to or above Swiss brands, but get little credit.
Thanks! I actual pursued automotive engineering for many years so I've been inside many an engine bay. What's your issue with the Honda comparison? I don't wanna get long winded and talk about the interchangeability of B and K series engines in hondas as a corollary to the SEIKO 5 mod community. If matt farah is going for the Toyota/Lexus comparison to SEIKO/GS, then we are saying the same thing. The LFA is a single model, not a brand.
@@WatchCrunchOfficial Lexus is a more luxury upmarket brand, and I would argue Seiko is the same in practice. The Seiko 5 mod community is but one part of the brand. The other part of that is all Seiko products are in house, and the majority of their watches can compete with entry to upper-mid level Swiss pieces. Take for example Tudors, which are considered luxury but utilize ETA movements. Seiko has their own factories, machine every piece of the watch. Provide way better value for the dollar then any Swiss brand. I have a SARX033 and I can tell you the finishing on the case and bracelet is nicer than my Tudor BB for less than half the price. With respect to the LFA, Grand Seiko has its own separate factory and produces all pieces separately at this factory, and like the LFA, uses rare or precious materials to create the product. I think Orient are more like Honda, which again, is not an insult, but great value for pennies compared to other companies. Seiko is just at a higher level, but because it doesn't say "Swiss made", many label babies refuse to give them any credit.
I wonder if you would compare Seiko Presage Sharp Edged case design to Evolution 9 (especially side profile) and indices of something like SPB167? to Shunbun
Gorgeous piece and backdrop, the campus cherry blossoms matches the dial literally perfectly, very thoughtful! So I get the second to none craftsmanship and technology with GS but with this price point and segment don’t you think they are up against some major competition, like Rolex OP? Your thoughts?
Thanks Kenny. Yes I also have a bit of mental block paying this much for a seiko. What I would say is that it takes a very different approach to luxury and is much better built than a lot of swiss watches in its price range. But I do think they shouldn't keep raising prices.
hi Max.. nice video.. I also just joined WatchCrunch recently In terms of level accuracy, I doubt that GS belongs to the same level of other well known suspected names of Swiss watches..... It is way above that level :-)
Seiko changed the watch industry with the quartz revolution, and almost killed the Swiss watch industry. Grand Seiko are about to do it again with its Spring Drive movement which soon will become available at more price levels. The Swiss are shaking in their boots.😉
the rhong that holds me back is the bracelets. ive hearts mixed rumours with some saying they are as standard as the most stand of seikos and regardless of what the dial and movement is like, thsys not good enough for a 6k watch
Yes, by far. I have the Spring season model. I find it receiving more wrist time than my 2021 Rolex Datejust 41. It does not scream look at me as a Rolex does.
Horrible experience with their customer service with this watch. After a day of use, a pin on a non-removable link was broken, and the bracelet a bit loose. I sent it under warranty and they said it was not covered not admitting it was defective. A true shame, I wanted to really start a Grand Seiko collection. Service not on par for a luxury brand.
I just saw the GS cherry blossom today for the first time. I thought I would never see that watch. Now I have to do what other watch collectors talk about. SAVE MONEY! LoL This will be the first watch I’ll be purchasing for over $5,000 and I’m up for the challenge. But the real challenge is whether or not if I will buy it since there are some legitimate assets I should buy for that kind of money. Anyway. Thanks for this great video!
Beautiful photography and review. I will point out the bracelet uses a pin and collar system not a friction pin. The later is used on lesser watches and can work it’s way out.
@@WatchCrunchOfficial Sure thing. I like to point it out because this system which Grand Seiko calls pins and pipes is actually superior to screws in a few ways. 1) Once pressed into the pipe the pin is unlikely to ever work its way out; 2) Because the pin can free wheel inside the bracelet there is less wear so not as much of an opportunity for bracelet stretch; 3) If worn or otherwise damaged the pins and pipes can easily be replaced; 4) No rounded off screw heads or ruined threads. I mention screws because many reviewers chastise Grand Seiko for using the pins and pipes and IMO do so out of ignorance. This is a shame because it sways manufacturers to move to screws when that might not be the best solution. So, even though the pins and pipes are tricky to work with often they are the best option.
Wanted to add a Grand Seiko to my collection for years now but one thing always stops me... the straps and bracelets. There's no denying the movements and finish work is world-class, but the straps and bracelets are just terrible. Wobbly links, tight, super small, and a clasp with all the finesse of a 20 year old Tag. Sorry to rant, but I really wanted to love GS, and I don't.
Nice artistic touches with the cherry blossom 🌸, GS is superior to 95% of the Swiss/ German produce, saying that I'm contemplating a Zenith 3600 chronomaster sport... any thoughts?🙂
I think that this watch is stunning. The dial is really beautiful. There are only two things that I don't love about this piece: the caseback (why did they cover the movement? 😡) and the bracelet, because, if I'm right, it doesn't taper at all.
No question that Grand Seiko is equal to, and in some respects, superior to the Swiss brands. In my opinion, GS quality and technical expertise can compete with any brand.
I was thinking to myself tonight that I hadn't seen a Haute Ones video for a while, where's he gone? Then I checked and I had missed this one, sorry mate I am getting older and these things tend to happen 😂. Great quality yet again and the visuals were stunning, that GS is so photogenic.
Haha, glad to see you regardless of timing dear Morgan! Gotta say I'm still trying to understand the brand, but I do think they have something special there with spring drive 👍
The watch is very nice, specially for the unique movement. And your videos only get better and better! I must say that I have already tried many TH-cam videos about watch and stopped following many. Your channel is a keeper! Surely the best channel when we analyse everything as a whole, knowledge, photography, music, and so on. I can imagine the time you spend making each video... congratulations and keep up this nice work!
Max - thanks for the review. I’m close to popping for GS purchase one of these days. I gotta know, did the lack of contrast between hands and dial ever result in legibility issues for you? I perceive it as an issue from images I’ve seen of the watch, but I’ve no way to see it in person without purchasing it. Thanks!
Always appreciate hearing your views on a watch. And yes, Grand Seiko is definitely on par with Rolex, Omega, etc. The main (only?) difference, admittedly a big one, is that GS does not have universally iconic designs like the Explorer, Datejust, or Submariner.
Very good point Cecil. It doesn't feel like a design slowly evolved over time. It was tough to know where to come down, but I think more time with different models will definitely further shape my opinion. Nevertheless, it's fantastically built and easily justifies its price.
It's got the Spring Drive, an invention that will change watchmaking forever. The Japanese esthetics are subtle and beautiful. Grand Seiko is the future of advanced luxury watches. The Swiss are silently in shock !
No, this piece does NOT belong in the same league as the Swiss heavy hitters, it is in a League ABOVE them! The spring drive blows them away, then they had the balls to make a pink dial men's watch. That piece is just about perfect. IMHO.
💯🤝
No it's not. Way too thick and they look boring from a distance. Everyone is hyped because of these microshots in youtube videos. Until you see them irl in a boutique. They are just boring. Unless you carry a loupe all the time to admire it's details. These GS topics are just one big echo chamber.
@@KacperinOekraïnelol you sound ridiculous
Without a doubt, this the best GS review, and Spring Drive explanation on TH-cam. And yes, GS does in fact belong in the same league as Swiss watches. This particular piece is a stunner. Regarding the power indicator: I'm with you. I like it. Watches don't need moonphase complications either, but it's still cool to have.
Appreciate that! Yeah it definitely took a while for me to "understand" this watch, but I think I get it now 😊
Smart observation with the moon phase
Lol, I guess moonphase is useful when you live under a rock but I agree that it looks cool. I like it on the IWC watches.
Man the dial of these gs are definitely cool and inline with the rolex and omegas. Their growing popularity is a indication of that. Fantastic vid as always!
Thanks Phil, this watch is sick when you put magnification on it!
The GS dials are fascinating...I could totally see being distracted throughout the day looking at them
Yeah Seth, they have the dial finish sector covered!
I have this watch and it's amazing! Aside from that, your channel is amazing and I'm happy to be one of the pioneers that's going to get to see you grow in the years to come.
Appreciate that! Will keep the vids coming 👍
The feedback design of the Spring Drive is a thing of beauty ... it reminds me of the K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system from Bosch from the 1970s.
Just picked this watch up. Can’t stop staring at the dial. I love the weight of it and I could care less about the bracelet. The bracelet feels fine to me and if it comes down to it, I’ll simply throw it on a grey seude strap. Love the video BTW.
Congrats, I think the bracelet has a ways to go to match the craftsman of the watch, which is superb. Feels like a seiko bracelet on a grand seiko head :)
I second the earlier comment - the spring drive explanation was top notch. Nicely done! Just found your channel. Please keep them coming. Subscribed.
This one has been on my list for a while now! Thanks for the great review!
No prob Nolan! Glad to help 😊
This should have a gold seconds hand. Remove the lion emblem on the back and it is chef's kiss.
I think this is what separates brands like GS versus Rolex. Whenever describing watches by GS it’s always a caveat. It’s pink but only next to pink. It’s good bracelet but doesn’t taper or in 21mm. It’s good but to appreciate it you need a macro lens. It’s good but could be thinner. Etc. It’s never described as it’s just a beautiful and good watch.
Love the review!
I think a lot of people will dismiss Grand Seiko just because it isn't "Swiss." However, after owning multiple Omega's, the finishing on Grand Seiko has always been superior to any of my past Swiss encounters. I still keep my Seamaster because I love the heritage, but I feel like my money goes further with Grand Seiko for the same price.
If you ever want to review a 9F Quartz next, you know who to call 😉
Appreciate that Kenneth! I relate to my omegas a lot differently that to this GS. It's very interesting how different companies approach luxury in different ways. Keep me in the loop about your latest GS conquests😉
@@WatchCrunchOfficial agreed 100%!
Grand Seiko is taking a different approach, and it's really like comparing Lexus to Mercedes/Audi/etc. There's never a wrong choice, just different strokes for different folks! 😉
I hope and pray Grand Seiko will add micro adjustment clasps on their steel bracelets
You and I both man 🙏
The GS CB spring watch is so cool! Great video. I don't own a GS yet but I can see that they are some of the best watches made in the world and grossly underrated. I would also get the titanium. I agree the SD is the best movement out there.
Maybe strap companies will start making more 21mm straps?
It looked like you were near UW and cherry blossoms but I have not been there in nearly 20 yrs...my home state
Thanks Bill! Glad you enjoyed the video. Yes I'm in Seattle and it's beautiful this time of year!
As a GS fan, I'm getting kinda tired of hearing "Can they" and "Will they". We already know they CAN and they ARE (arguably according to some). I think the watch media needs to shift the narrative, as GS aren't underdogs anymore. They're just different. That's what matters. They're the "thinking person's choice" if you were.
I think if they added a blue second hand it would be a homerun
I'm a watch noob at 40yo... Could never be bothered, even in my ibanking career, to wear a bullshit status symbol. These spring drive gs watches have sparked a true excitement in me for this space. Absolutely spectacular.
Separately, I echo the previous comments in saying, that this is the best review video of a gs SD watch I've seen to date. Great work.
LOOK EVERYONE, WE'VE GOT A RICH PERSON HERE WHO COULD AFFORD ALL KINDS OF EXPENSIVE WATCHES BUT DIDN'T LIKE THEM!
As much as I like GS, I think they’re somewhat behind on the material quality front. The bracelet and clasp are a prime example of that. The overall ergonomics seem to be slightly better with Rolex watches
It seems that they are still refining case shapes and bracelet quality. The endlink fitment for example is no where near Rolex. But maybe in 5 years 🤷♂️
Another awesome review man. Great background music and shots with the watch and cherry blossoms works so well together. The animation was informational on how the movement functions. Also cool you threw in the Honda analogy with the NSX.. I was like civic yes, what about th... NSX.. thats the one!
Thanks Kyle. NSX was my Grail before I discovered watches 😆
The perfect watch for a Spring Drive... literally get the car out in Spring, and go for a drive 😂😂😂
Tell me what better quality or finishing Rolex & Omega deliver over Grand Seiko. Other than marketing and snobbery. Rolexes are bought to impress other people. You buy a GS to impress yourself.
It's an extremely impressive watch. At the same time it hasn't undergone the slow evolution of something like a speedmaster or submariner. Some care about that, others don't.
Absolute dream watch!
One day...
Grand Seiko Spring Drive does not belong in the same league with Rolex and Omega. Why should it be lowered to Swiss standards?
GS can arguably be said to be in a league all of it's own. It's a much better watch than Rolex (any Rolex). That said, buyers of luxury watches aren't necessarily paying for quality so much as identity. Agree that your explanation of spring drive is spot on. Well done.
Thanks Bill. Yes GS definitely seems to be carving out their own path to luxury and that can be commended. I still think they are working on refining their case design, and just design language in general.
I sold both my Rolexes and just ordered the Sbga413. I think it beats Rolex in every way except brand equity. When it comes to everything else, Rolex can’t win.
Why does everybody forget about the automatic 9s65 movement (not a hi-beat)
Did you just compare this watch to a Honda civic? This guy is crazy 😂. This watch outperforms every Swiss watch ever made
GS also have a 4Hz mechanical movement too. The references SBGM221& SBGW258 use variations of it for instance. Anyway, no doubt they’re in the Omega/Rolex league. That’s a no-brainer 😁
Yes David, as well as quartz. They really have their bases covered 😉
Still own the SBGA 413? Thank you. R.
In 5+ years gs will be in the same league as rolex, omega and patek in terms of consumer demand. Buy one now.
I believe that as well 👍
This watch scratches way to easily. They should have used Diashield.
I really think it is better than the Swiss watches. It's in its own league.
Rolex doesn't even have an exhibition caseback.
Grand Seiko has the best all round package for the money.
I'd go for GS eyes closed.
Too ugly once you open it. Lol. Does not compare with Grand Seiko or other top tier brands.
GS is an amazing brand and this model is an amazing watch. If they just improve the bracelet and lower the price they would hit it out of the ballpark.
Agreed Minh, they are getting up there in price 😬
If you wanna get a GS, go for the Hi Beat.
Spring Drive is just an upgrade of Seiko Kinetic watches.
Spring Drive is like using your left hand, go around/behind your neck to a scratch your right ear.
It's very ridiculous. I think Khaby Lame would agree.
Btw I bought GS Hi Beat 100% mechanical
The question of whether GS is in the same league as RLX and OGA is the closest thing to blasfhemy in Horoligal...which watch goes longer without in need of Servicing ?. Rolex or GS? This is Horology 101...and the winner is GS. Case Close.
Great cinematography and video. I really take issue with your Honda comparison though, not that there's anything wrong with Honda.
Matt Farah (noted car guy), put it best;
Seiko is like Lexus.
Grand Seiko is like the Lexus LFA.
These are watches that are equal to or above Swiss brands, but get little credit.
Thanks!
I actual pursued automotive engineering for many years so I've been inside many an engine bay. What's your issue with the Honda comparison?
I don't wanna get long winded and talk about the interchangeability of B and K series engines in hondas as a corollary to the SEIKO 5 mod community.
If matt farah is going for the Toyota/Lexus comparison to SEIKO/GS, then we are saying the same thing.
The LFA is a single model, not a brand.
@@WatchCrunchOfficial Lexus is a more luxury upmarket brand, and I would argue Seiko is the same in practice.
The Seiko 5 mod community is but one part of the brand. The other part of that is all Seiko products are in house, and the majority of their watches can compete with entry to upper-mid level Swiss pieces.
Take for example Tudors, which are considered luxury but utilize ETA movements. Seiko has their own factories, machine every piece of the watch. Provide way better value for the dollar then any Swiss brand.
I have a SARX033 and I can tell you the finishing on the case and bracelet is nicer than my Tudor BB for less than half the price.
With respect to the LFA, Grand Seiko has its own separate factory and produces all pieces separately at this factory, and like the LFA, uses rare or precious materials to create the product.
I think Orient are more like Honda, which again, is not an insult, but great value for pennies compared to other companies. Seiko is just at a higher level, but because it doesn't say "Swiss made", many label babies refuse to give them any credit.
Thanks for doing this review. What is your wrist size for reference please?
I wonder if you would compare Seiko Presage Sharp Edged case design to Evolution 9 (especially side profile) and indices of something like SPB167? to Shunbun
Ahh I didnt know this one was USA-exclusive. I was planning to pick it up when I visit japan next year.
What a gorgeous watch, absolutely lovely.
I've got Grand Seiko & Omega watches side by side in my collection.
Grand Seiko easily holds their place... easily.
Gorgeous piece and backdrop, the campus cherry blossoms matches the dial literally perfectly, very thoughtful! So I get the second to none craftsmanship and technology with GS but with this price point and segment don’t you think they are up against some major competition, like Rolex OP? Your thoughts?
Thanks Kenny. Yes I also have a bit of mental block paying this much for a seiko. What I would say is that it takes a very different approach to luxury and is much better built than a lot of swiss watches in its price range. But I do think they shouldn't keep raising prices.
Swiss watches look dull and bored, however GS has taking its craftsmanship and movement to another level compared to Swiss watches.
hi Max.. nice video.. I also just joined WatchCrunch recently
In terms of level accuracy, I doubt that GS belongs to the same level of other well known suspected names of Swiss watches..... It is way above that level :-)
Great review with great cherry blossoms shots
Thanks for the suggestion Bobby! 😉
Do they make these in 36mm diameter?
Great video, thank you
You got it!
Seiko changed the watch industry with the quartz revolution, and almost killed the Swiss watch industry. Grand Seiko are about to do it again with its Spring Drive movement which soon will become available at more price levels. The Swiss are shaking in their boots.😉
Yeah, Spring drive is sick! They need to continue trying to make it thinner.
@@WatchCrunchOfficial Yes!!👍👍
@@WatchCrunchOfficial They already have. But ... it'll cost yah.
the rhong that holds me back is the bracelets. ive hearts mixed rumours with some saying they are as standard as the most stand of seikos and regardless of what the dial and movement is like, thsys not good enough for a 6k watch
You buy a Rolex to impress others. I buy a Grand Seiko to impress myself.
Integra, prelude, type r, s2000.
Do more research into Honda ffs
gs is maybe even better then rolex. finish and accurey are on another level.
Oh this watch is just a freaking DREAM!!! Absolutely love the way you captured it as well! ❤
Thanks girl! Grab the wine and cheese and let's talk about it 😆
please buy it so I can see if it does have the pink tint :) its epic
great review..may be you can take a look at SBGK009 if you get the chance
Get out of Seattle, it used to be cheap and weird here, now it’s “yeah brah” and trendy.
I prefer the elegance models
Yes, by far. I have the Spring season model. I find it receiving more wrist time than my 2021 Rolex Datejust 41. It does not scream look at me as a Rolex does.
Grand Seiko blows Rolex out of the water.
40mm is too much for my tuberculin wrist.
😐
Great video and info, and diagram about the spring drive
The power reserve sundial cut out is so intrusive and destroyed the perfect texture of the main dial.
Makes Rolex look Chavey..
Haha, they are feeling the heat
@@WatchCrunchOfficial So they should.
Bulova Accutron Fork design
Beautiful watch and unique on its own world. Cant wait to have these on my collection.
Horrible experience with their customer service with this watch. After a day of use, a pin on a non-removable link was broken, and the bracelet a bit loose. I sent it under warranty and they said it was not covered not admitting it was defective. A true shame, I wanted to really start a Grand Seiko collection. Service not on par for a luxury brand.
Ugh, sorry to hear that. Their bracelets are meh...
I just saw the GS cherry blossom today for the first time. I thought I would never see that watch. Now I have to do what other watch collectors talk about. SAVE MONEY! LoL This will be the first watch I’ll be purchasing for over $5,000 and I’m up for the challenge. But the real challenge is whether or not if I will buy it since there are some legitimate assets I should buy for that kind of money. Anyway. Thanks for this great video!
It's very pretty 👍
I really want to know how they did the dial.
Beautiful photography and review. I will point out the bracelet uses a pin and collar system not a friction pin. The later is used on lesser watches and can work it’s way out.
Good point, thanks for the clarification
@@WatchCrunchOfficial Sure thing. I like to point it out because this system which Grand Seiko calls pins and pipes is actually superior to screws in a few ways. 1) Once pressed into the pipe the pin is unlikely to ever work its way out; 2) Because the pin can free wheel inside the bracelet there is less wear so not as much of an opportunity for bracelet stretch; 3) If worn or otherwise damaged the pins and pipes can easily be replaced; 4) No rounded off screw heads or ruined threads. I mention screws because many reviewers chastise Grand Seiko for using the pins and pipes and IMO do so out of ignorance. This is a shame because it sways manufacturers to move to screws when that might not be the best solution. So, even though the pins and pipes are tricky to work with often they are the best option.
Thanks for that detailed explanation! Makes sense
I bought it I like it bracelet is only let down
You know GS is one of the best even when Snobs praise it.
Wanted to add a Grand Seiko to my collection for years now but one thing always stops me... the straps and bracelets. There's no denying the movements and finish work is world-class, but the straps and bracelets are just terrible. Wobbly links, tight, super small, and a clasp with all the finesse of a 20 year old Tag. Sorry to rant, but I really wanted to love GS, and I don't.
Yeah Tom, the clasp didn't quite sit flush either. They really need to work on the bracelet
Spring Drive is THE movement to beat them all.
Fantastic video. Great information; spectacular watch and superior video production. I'll be back.
Thanks for dropping by, see you soon Rick 👍
This or snowflake ?? pleasee advise
I'd like them more if they found a way to add lume to their hands!
1st👌
On the underside of the hands maybe, reflecting off the dial, like I believe Mondaine uses on some of their models.
@@DavidDatura Wow, that's creative, never heard about that!
Interesting, but how would that lume be charged? There are some newer models with lume I believe. I do like a bit more complexity to the hands👍
@@WatchCrunchOfficial I suppose by light again reflecting off the dial onto the lume 🤷♂️
Ive got a sbga413 and love this vid 🙌🏾❤️👌🏾 Thank you
Great watch! GS killing it right now
Nice artistic touches with the cherry blossom 🌸, GS is superior to 95% of the Swiss/ German produce, saying that I'm contemplating a Zenith 3600 chronomaster sport... any thoughts?🙂
They all have their place up at the top tier 👍. Love zenith and what they are doing
I think that this watch is stunning. The dial is really beautiful. There are only two things that I don't love about this piece: the caseback (why did they cover the movement? 😡) and the bracelet, because, if I'm right, it doesn't taper at all.
You are right! The bracelet was a disappointment, not very elegant like the rest of the watch
No question that Grand Seiko is equal to, and in some respects, superior to the Swiss brands. In my opinion, GS quality and technical expertise can compete with any brand.
Yes Pete, they pull off a big win in the technical aspect. I think with time they will develop a more consistent design language.
NO GS doesn't belong to the same league as Rolex. It belongs to same league as JLC, VC and so on
That's certainly a viable position to take 👍
your subs are going to spike like crazy soon. production quality for your videos is A1 from content to videography and editing
Thanks dude, working on it 👍
I was thinking to myself tonight that I hadn't seen a Haute Ones video for a while, where's he gone? Then I checked and I had missed this one, sorry mate I am getting older and these things tend to happen 😂. Great quality yet again and the visuals were stunning, that GS is so photogenic.
Haha, glad to see you regardless of timing dear Morgan! Gotta say I'm still trying to understand the brand, but I do think they have something special there with spring drive 👍
Wow. Amazing review!
Thank you Aray 👍
They are too thick... GS really need to improve their watches in this regard.
They are getting better, this one does not wear thick at all. It's actually 12.8mm, but I rounded up.
Agree with OP, some are, but not this model.
Great channel. Suscribed.
I hear legibility is an issue for a lot of people. Have you noticed?
Yeah that's why I ended up with the winter for more contrast
Wonderfull video! And to respond to your question, the quality is above R and O 🔥!
Yes I'm learning that as I've worn GS 👍
The watch is very nice, specially for the unique movement. And your videos only get better and better! I must say that I have already tried many TH-cam videos about watch and stopped following many. Your channel is a keeper! Surely the best channel when we analyse everything as a whole, knowledge, photography, music, and so on. I can imagine the time you spend making each video... congratulations and keep up this nice work!
Appreciate you very much Paulo! Thanks for your support 👍
Yes, GS belongs in the same class as the Swiss and the Germans. Check out the SBGM221.
Yes Edward, I've always liked that GMT
Amazing video brother!
Thanks dude!
Can the lion on the back be removed? That's been my hold off from getting one.
I haven't dared to try, but looks like just regular paint that can come off with some rubbing compound.
GS not so cheap anymore
I am in love with this thing. Awesome video!
The best Shunbun review by far. Liked, subscribed, thank you.
Cheers 😊👍
Great video. Thanks !
Max - thanks for the review. I’m close to popping for GS purchase one of these days. I gotta know, did the lack of contrast between hands and dial ever result in legibility issues for you? I perceive it as an issue from images I’ve seen of the watch, but I’ve no way to see it in person without purchasing it. Thanks!
Yes, there's definitely a lack of contrast on this one. I ended up with winter edition which has a blue second hand!
@@WatchCrunchOfficial thank you my friend! I’m now leaning that way to!
Always appreciate hearing your views on a watch. And yes, Grand Seiko is definitely on par with Rolex, Omega, etc. The main (only?) difference, admittedly a big one, is that GS does not have universally iconic designs like the Explorer, Datejust, or Submariner.
Just the snowflake.
Very good point Cecil. It doesn't feel like a design slowly evolved over time. It was tough to know where to come down, but I think more time with different models will definitely further shape my opinion. Nevertheless, it's fantastically built and easily justifies its price.
It's got the Spring Drive, an invention that will change watchmaking forever. The Japanese esthetics are subtle and beautiful. Grand Seiko is the future of advanced luxury watches. The Swiss are silently in shock !
Great video
What grade titanium is it?
Grede 5
A really nice timepiece. I wonder if it can appreciate over time?
Word on the street is that it already has.