I own an SBGA427 and couldn’t be happier. The power reserve is a useful complication and GS executes it beautifully. The spring drive is a must have for my watch collection.
I think there is probably a VENN diagram of folks who say: "I would buy a GS, Rolex, or Omega watch if it didnt have the power reserve, cyclops, or helium escape valve." respectively. These are clearly design elements that identify those brands so the are here to stay. Personally I like the wabi sabi of the power reserve indicator as a provides a measure of premediated "inperfection" and serves as an additional marking of the transience of time that makes you appreciate even more the beauty of the dial and all its elements.
Also agree, from an owner of 3 GS, only one really fits the dimensions of a true dress watch, the SBGV238 and that's probably because it's a quartz. The other two whilst smart are rather bulky which can be annoying.
Literally everything you just said. Although I can imagine why they don't do any of this. To be more like the higher end brands and differentiate from competition. Even though it's at the cost of the user experience.
As a big guy with big wrists I like the thickness of some GS, certainly the Quartz and SD are fine and the new hi beat movement will and is reducing the thickness of the hi beat watches. The White Birch is considerably thinner than the old generation hi beats. I don’t find the thickness of my blue snowflake an issue at all, the lug position renders the thickness a non issue IMO, but like I say I do have big wrists. People complain about the thickness of GS dress watches but nobody bats an eyelid at the hockey pucks that A Lange & Sohne make.
I definitely agree with your sentiment about loving vs. owning. I have lost so much money buying watches I truly loved that just weren’t right for me. I guess it’s part of the watch collecting journey…but a hard lesson to learn.
Your wisdom about loving and owning watches hit home. This is a stunning watch. I need a GS in my collection at some point and this will be at the top of the list. Great video!
This is the only GS I would add to my collection. Love the dial and the colour of it. With the constant sweep of the seconds hand I could probably look at it all day..
Really enjoying your reviews! Have a SBGA211 myself and I remember when the skyflake had just come out and you just couldn't get a hold of one. Love the spring drive movement - the clean sweep of time is just a marvel.
Loved this shorter little episode! It was on point while still having all the style and content of your more comprehensive videos. 04:16 is SO true! This is one of the most essential lessons you should learn in this hobby asap. Took me quite some while, too. And a lot more money on top of that...
Great video again. I ordered this watch last week on Chrono24 and the very next video on my favourite TH-cam watch channel is the Skyflake! Can't believe it. Super photography & close up shots. Can't wait!
First I want to say that I genuinely love your content and your channel. And in this video you said something that resonated and advice at all watch enthusiasts need to follow. Love the watches you buy but you don't have to buy all the watches you love. Great wisdom :-) genuinely appreciate what you do.
If we could own every watch we love, this hobby wouldn't be much fun! Any chance you could do the SBGA413 next? The Skyflake is a beaut. Loved your White Birch video too!!! Thanks for the short but sweet video.
Much prefer the new hi beat movement, for the finishing but I love this watch. Again, knockout review, really a standout reviewer. Insanely good reviews.
Very nice. I did a Grand Seiko phase. The movement is nice and the finishing is fantastic as advertised. Bracelets (clasp in particular) need some updating. Eventually lost its charm because it felt too vanilla for some reason. They are a Lexus. If you are into Seiko, save some money and get a Seiko Presage which is catching up to Grand Seiko finishing.
It's interesting to note that the Springdrive watches in GS Master collection which are way more expensive don't have the power reserve (or even a date), like the sbgd201j
I am seriously considering selling my SBGA211 and buying one of these to replace it. I like that it is a little smaller then my snowflake, also I like the blue dial, case shape, and that it is steel instead of Titanium.
I wanted this watch so badly, and went to gs to try it on, and honestly it was the first time I felt a watch looked worse in person than in videos/pictures. The case is just too thick.
For me, it’s the colour. I can’t unsee urinal deodoriser block blue when looking at it. It’s a Piscuit blue dial... also, never trust the yellow snowflake dial.
I don't understand why GS make cases with spring bar holes in the outer side of the lugs. I find them so aesthetically obtrusive. Am I missing something? Do they have a purpose? I don't intend to offend anyone or the brand. I do love Seiko. I'm just curious and would like to know why the holes and/or if people actually do find them aesthetically pleasing.
A gorgeous time piece from GS. However, it's kinda dressy. Could you do a review on Tudor M79030N-0002? (Before I make a decision and head down to the AD.)
@@Jaysun1 So when I looked at this watch, I found it in the Las Vegas Venetian Resort. That particular watch must have been tried on by 100 people because of the strap's condition. Regardless I didn't care for the shape of the case and lugs, and I also prefer a watch to have more contrast between the dial, hands, and markers. I did like the Godzilla watch they had, but I don't like it's price point. Over in another resort hotel (Wynn) I found another GS dealer, where I held the green spring drive GMT. Again I put it back. GS to me isn't all that much improvement over regular Seiko. It's not thousands of dollars of improvement. If you want spring drive, then you are stuck largely with Grand Seiko, but there are a few Seiko models that have it, albeit for thousands of dollars. In the end it's your choice and you have to buy what makes you happy.
"You should love every watch thar you own, but you shouldn't own every watch that you love."
I think you just cured my watch addiction.
I’ll send you a bill.
I own an SBGA427 and couldn’t be happier. The power reserve is a useful complication and GS executes it beautifully. The spring drive is a must have for my watch collection.
I think there is probably a VENN diagram of folks who say: "I would buy a GS, Rolex, or Omega watch if it didnt have the power reserve, cyclops, or helium escape valve." respectively. These are clearly design elements that identify those brands so the are here to stay. Personally I like the wabi sabi of the power reserve indicator as a provides a measure of premediated "inperfection" and serves as an additional marking of the transience of time that makes you appreciate even more the beauty of the dial and all its elements.
If GS only could slim down the thickness of their cases and add micro adjustment to their metal bracelets (along with tapering)...
Also agree, from an owner of 3 GS, only one really fits the dimensions of a true dress watch, the SBGV238 and that's probably because it's a quartz. The other two whilst smart are rather bulky which can be annoying.
I have 3 GS watches and hate the clasps on all of them.
Literally everything you just said. Although I can imagine why they don't do any of this. To be more like the higher end brands and differentiate from competition. Even though it's at the cost of the user experience.
And move the damn power reserve to the back like on the Eichi II.
As a big guy with big wrists I like the thickness of some GS, certainly the Quartz and SD are fine and the new hi beat movement will and is reducing the thickness of the hi beat watches. The White Birch is considerably thinner than the old generation hi beats.
I don’t find the thickness of my blue snowflake an issue at all, the lug position renders the thickness a non issue IMO, but like I say I do have big wrists. People complain about the thickness of GS dress watches but nobody bats an eyelid at the hockey pucks that A Lange & Sohne make.
I definitely agree with your sentiment about loving vs. owning. I have lost so much money buying watches I truly loved that just weren’t right for me. I guess it’s part of the watch collecting journey…but a hard lesson to learn.
As long as we enjoy the process.
Your wisdom about loving and owning watches hit home. This is a stunning watch. I need a GS in my collection at some point and this will be at the top of the list. Great video!
Yeah, I learned the hard way which is sometimes the only way I learn anything at all.
" you should love every watch you own but you definitly shouldn't own every watch you love " .... Evan 🙍♂️💓
😬
This is the only GS I would add to my collection. Love the dial and the colour of it. With the constant sweep of the seconds hand I could probably look at it all day..
Really enjoying your reviews! Have a SBGA211 myself and I remember when the skyflake had just come out and you just couldn't get a hold of one. Love the spring drive movement - the clean sweep of time is just a marvel.
Got mine 3 months ago. It gets so many compliments because of the way the light changes the dial colour
Excellent choice
I love mine. Super pretty in natural light
As with all GS, it comes alive in natural light.
That sweep is sooo smooth
I have and love this watch! So glad you did a video on it. It's amazing in the flesh!
It really is.
Loved this shorter little episode! It was on point while still having all the style and content of your more comprehensive videos. 04:16 is SO true! This is one of the most essential lessons you should learn in this hobby asap. Took me quite some while, too. And a lot more money on top of that...
Thanks, Daniel
The power reserve dial reminds me of a Japanese raked sand Zen Garden. Truly a work of art.
Great video again. I ordered this watch last week on Chrono24 and the very next video on my favourite TH-cam watch channel is the Skyflake! Can't believe it. Super photography & close up shots. Can't wait!
Wow, great timing and great choice.
Love your channel. Keep up the good work! And thanks for doing a vid on the Skyflake. Watching this as I’m wearing mine!😍
Nicely done
A wonderful watch!
First I want to say that I genuinely love your content and your channel. And in this video you said something that resonated and advice at all watch enthusiasts need to follow. Love the watches you buy but you don't have to buy all the watches you love. Great wisdom :-) genuinely appreciate what you do.
I have this watch and get many compliments at my poker games.
Love the blue strap on this
Amazing review. I went here after your sbgy007. I might head back…
If we could own every watch we love, this hobby wouldn't be much fun! Any chance you could do the SBGA413 next? The Skyflake is a beaut. Loved your White Birch video too!!! Thanks for the short but sweet video.
THIS IS NOT FAIR!!! there are to many beautiful watches out there. i will settle on a nice used galbee xl for my next purchase.
Gorgeous. Nice to see through that case back without the damn stamp on it.
Much prefer the new hi beat movement, for the finishing but I love this watch. Again, knockout review, really a standout reviewer. Insanely good reviews.
Another great video my man. I love this piece!
Really enjoy your channel
@@michaelriera6277 thank you 🙏!!!
Very nice. I did a Grand Seiko phase. The movement is nice and the finishing is fantastic as advertised. Bracelets (clasp in particular) need some updating. Eventually lost its charm because it felt too vanilla for some reason. They are a Lexus. If you are into Seiko, save some money and get a Seiko Presage which is catching up to Grand Seiko finishing.
The Sharp Edged series especially.
Tim coined it the Skyflake, and that's what it is to me.
The case is better than the white snowflake which is bigger 😵💫
I agree
love your videos. Got this watch and it is a beauty but just saw the new GS Blue dial SBGY007 and it kills this one
A sadly common story
I got that watch, so this video gets a like!
ahhh the skyflake! my daily wear piece. local dealer wants to buy it, but I'm super attached to it.
It's interesting to note that the Springdrive watches in GS Master collection which are way more expensive don't have the power reserve (or even a date), like the sbgd201j
Gotta pay big for no pr.
I am seriously considering selling my SBGA211 and buying one of these to replace it. I like that it is a little smaller then my snowflake, also I like the blue dial, case shape, and that it is steel instead of Titanium.
Do it. I have the SBGM221 (similar case and indices) and it absolutely sings. Pure GS charm.
I wanted this watch so badly, and went to gs to try it on, and honestly it was the first time I felt a watch looked worse in person than in videos/pictures. The case is just too thick.
For me, it’s the colour. I can’t unsee urinal deodoriser block blue when looking at it. It’s a Piscuit blue dial... also, never trust the yellow snowflake dial.
It’s lovely, but still original white for me 👍🏻
Just subbed. You do fantastic work!
Thanks, James.
Superb-looking dial. Love the texture. But have a say, I'm in the no power reserve camp. I'm also in the can't afford it camp, so not a deal-breaker!
Nice to see, thanks
GS killing me slowly with 19mm lug widths.
Preach
Love your channel! Can you please tell us the blue strap in the video. Much appreciated!
Nice review. That power reserve indicator is a deal breaker.
Which leather strap is that the blue one plz give a link for that
Can anyone guide me as to what is that style of watch strap call? See 2:15
I'm been looking for ages to look for something minimal like that
awesome channel
Thanks
Almost everything is so stunning except that power reserve indicator..
I had the same opinion at first but after having one with the power reserve, it grows on you. Now, I think it looks weird without one.
20mm strap SQUEEZED. Just can't bro'
I had no choice! GS made me do it.
Great video as usual. Also dig the jacket you're wearing. Which one is that?
Nau Kush Utility Blazer
@@YoureTerrific Thanks!
I don't understand why GS make cases with spring bar holes in the outer side of the lugs. I find them so aesthetically obtrusive. Am I missing something? Do they have a purpose?
I don't intend to offend anyone or the brand. I do love Seiko. I'm just curious and would like to know why the holes and/or if people actually do find them aesthetically pleasing.
Quite a few watch brands do the same. It makes it easier to change the watch straps.
19mm is the new 20mm
Where can one buy the blue strap? Really nice 👍
Yeah, but what about Seiko customer service...
Never had a problem
19mm FTW
Why are colored dials so rare? Are they harder to match with clothes?
Guy didn't like the factory GS strap but puts it instead on a $20 Strapsco Dassari strap...?
“SkyFlake”
skyflake
AKA
A gorgeous time piece from GS. However, it's kinda dressy.
Could you do a review on Tudor M79030N-0002? (Before I make a decision and head down to the AD.)
The WIS community I think has settled on calling this the 'Skyflake'
PLEASE get rid of that monstrous power reserve gauge on the dial!!
I would check out the just released SBGY007. It’s money.
@@MistaRhoi Now THAT'S what i'm talking about!
I like this pr window
I think its called the "skyflake", not the "blue snowflake"
It's a good looking watch, but GS has an even better Snowflake variation, SBGY002.
And only $25,000!
I passed on the this watch several weeks ago. GS always seems to cut a corner somewhere and I end up walking away.
What turned you off from it?
@@Jaysun1 So when I looked at this watch, I found it in the Las Vegas Venetian Resort. That particular watch must have been tried on by 100 people because of the strap's condition. Regardless I didn't care for the shape of the case and lugs, and I also prefer a watch to have more contrast between the dial, hands, and markers. I did like the Godzilla watch they had, but I don't like it's price point. Over in another resort hotel (Wynn) I found another GS dealer, where I held the green spring drive GMT. Again I put it back. GS to me isn't all that much improvement over regular Seiko. It's not thousands of dollars of improvement. If you want spring drive, then you are stuck largely with Grand Seiko, but there are a few Seiko models that have it, albeit for thousands of dollars. In the end it's your choice and you have to buy what makes you happy.
2.000 USD cheaper it would be perfectly priced around 6k
Its already 5800
Little bit thick for me.
That’s what she said. Sorry.
😂😂😂
Putting a power reserve indicator on the dial that beautiful is complete lunacy. Total deal killer. Are the people at Grand Seiko really that dense?
best watch in the world; worst strap in the world
The frozen lake is the one to get bro
Nice review, lovely watch, great cinematograpy, horid straps.
The yourterrific trademark.