Grand Seiko Elegance Spring Drive 'Omiwatari'

Grand Seiko is the darling of contemporary watch collectors today, and taking even a cursory glance at the design specs — or better yet, an example in the metal — it’s easy to see why.

The artisanal talent that goes into the design and manufacturing process of a GS dial alone is simply stunning. Depending on the angle, the color and composition of a textured Grand Seiko face will look completely different. They’re truly works of art steeped in Japanese tradition.

This particular GS, an SBGY007 ‘Omiwatari’ from the 2020s, takes its inspiration from the frozen waters of Lake Suwa, in which a ‘long ridge appears on the ice from one side of the lake to the other’ — a place that is said to be the ‘Omiwatari’ where the gods walk on the ice. Housed in a svelte 38.5mm stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a polished bezel, it features an ice-blue ‘Omiwatari’ dial with applied indices, a matching Dauphine handset, a blued steel seconds hand, and an outer minute track. 

Powered by Grand Seiko’s innovative Caliber 9R31 Spring Drive movement with 72 hours of power reserve — which is visible via a sapphire exhibition caseback — it comes paired to a signed blue alligator leather strap with a signed push-button deployant clasp. In outstanding condition overall, this piece ships with its factory goodies.

Simply stunning to behold and a prime example of Japanese craftsmanship, the SBGY007 features one of the most arresting dials we’ve seen in many years. 

Try it on and you’ll see what we mean!

The Grand Seiko was created by Taro Tanaka, a young designer whom Seiko had hired right out of school. Inspired by the way Swiss watches “sparkled brilliantly,” Tanaka set out to design a watch with sharp edges, brushed surfaces, and a mirror finish that would rival anything created by the Swiss. In 1960, the first Grand Seiko—Reference 3180—debuted.

Other models of Grand Seiko would follow, coupling those elegant “sparkling” cases with high-grade (often hi-beat) manually-wound or automatic movements. When compared to the no-nonsense tool watches like the 6309 line of divers, the Grand Seiko was worlds away—refined, elegant, and cosmopolitan. Seiko intended the watch to be an answer to dress watches crafted by the Swiss, and at that it certainly did succeed.

Well-regarded in its home country, the Grand Seiko reached a global audience in 2010—and has captivated consumers ever since.

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Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.