Just bought this watch yesterday. This is literally the first watch that did not dissapoint when I saw it in person. The dial is gorgeous in all lights, the finish is incredible, I love the incredibly detailed GS on the crown, and the titanium makes this watch with bracelet ~100 grams?? It feels so light on the wrist, and the titanium allows the clasp to be so incredibly thin, which i loveeee (total opposite of Omega Seamaster's clasp haha). I was even blown away by the caseback, something I had seen in videos and wasn't expecting much of. And the only text on the dial is Spring Drive, incredibly fitting of a watch meant to represent Spring and "New Beginnings".

@NippleSauce

2 жыл бұрын

Ahhh, shoot. Ya see, this comment disappoints me haha. Because I just went out of my way and was barely able to get the watch that I had wanted for years: the Omega Seamaster 300M Diver with a white dial (as I love white dials). While I don't mind the clasp, the lug to lug length was bigger than my tiny wrists can handle LOL. It's also extremely heavy! So, since this watch - the SBGA413 - was the last one on my desired watch list, I realized that I screwed up and should've gotten the Grand Seiko instead :(. Regardless, I recently started thinking that this watch might be a mistake as well without being able to see it in person before getting it. But your comment tells me otherwise, haha. I guess I'm gonna have to sell off the Omega and then grab this piece (of course, then I might be disappointed in not having a white dialed piece anymore lol). It seems that watch collecting is a never ending cycle for some 😅

Bruce, get yourself one. I was looking for a GS for a long time. Couldn't never really decide which model or which technology. At the end I just sticked with the one that was sparking my interest for the brand and a model that always came back to my mind: The classic Snow Flake. Yes it's not the most original GS out there but outside the watch nerd region it's indeed a very special watch. I had some ups and downs because you really need to grow on GS even if you own one. But in the end it turned out to be one of my absolute favorite pieces in my collection. Everytime I spend some time with it I feel the calm fascination of beautiful Japanese design and craftmanship. No other watch gives me a feeling close to that! Thanks for showing & all the best from Germany!

@jacc88888

3 жыл бұрын

I like the way you explained the connection you got with the watch. Enjoyed reading your comment!

All I can say is I took my grand seiko to a friends, who had just bought a rolex. A couple of days later the rolex was up for sale. When we compared them, it was blindingly obvious that the grand seiko was a better quality.

I never knew I’d ever like a pinkish watch. But what a gorgeous dial. It’s white for the most part, but slightly pink in certain angles & lights. Kinda makes my brutish arm look a little more ‘elegant’.

The Japanese design ethos and craftmanship coming out of the Grand Seiko house put a smile on my face. This watch is gorgeous in its subtlety and execution. I don't like the printing on the caseback either, but it would be far from a deal-breaker for me.

I bought this watch after researching the market for my first major watch purchase. It's extremely versatile, it's absolutely stunning, love the tribute to the 62 GS case, the box domed sapphire crystal, the hand finished titanium case and bracelet. I actually love the bracelet with it's slight taper and the ease of the dual clasp. I'm not sure what the complaints are with the bracelet. It's a light weight oyster style bracelet with elegant finishing and some flex. I don't want the weight of a stainless steel case or bracelet, otherwise I would have bought a stainless steel watch. I love the comfort this watch provides. It's second to none with watches in the $10k and under category. I agree with the case back. A water mark or just leaving it empty to showcase the movement would have been a better way to go. I'll never let go of this watch. That's how much I love this one.

The bracelet is underestimated because at first feels so light then as you wear it, the light weight watch is very wearable. The darker titanium band contrasted with the brighter dial pairs very well.

I own this watch and it is phenomenal. Really happy with it all around.

@kingoftampa

3 жыл бұрын

Ive been looking at one of these for a little bit, how do you like the titanium? I was kind of put off by just how light it actually is, but i cant stop thinking about it I need to just buy it.

@Chellfinancial

3 жыл бұрын

@@kingoftampa honestly the titanium is really sturdy and comfortable. I’m definitely not a fan of titanium, but it works well on this watch. The watch overall is a masterpiece and you should definitely buy one if given the opportunity, the dial is stunning.

@RickyRicon2023

3 жыл бұрын

@@Chellfinancial Hi, what about the dial color ? is it pink when you are outside of your house ? what about when you are in the office with the office light? i haven't seen none of this model. I would like to buy one GS but i don't know which one. thanks !

Bruce, love the content. Here's my 2 cents on you scrapping the first review. I don't want a balanced review, I want an honest one. If you're honestly head over heels for a watch, then express it that way. No need to temper your enthusiasm for something, just so that you can balance out the positive with the negative. I'm looking for honesty in these reviews, not balance.

@TypeSly

2 жыл бұрын

Agreed.

@vktravellog1242

2 жыл бұрын

Agreed! Hate fakers like the fake news!

all my bracelets are pristine condition, because I wear watches on straps! great review and honest opinion thanks Bruce

I think it looks stunning! Hoping to own own one someday.

Picked this one up today. Not disappointed one bit. Was actually looking at purchasing a Soko Shadow. My Wife saw the SBGA413 which I was already wanting and said it looked fantastic. That sealed the deal. I Love and appreciate the level of detail that it is put into this beautiful timepiece.

K absolutely love the seasons collection. They all look absolutely amazing. The Green might be my least favorite, but the Blue is just wow

@ashleyslingers2814

3 жыл бұрын

The green is sick! Love it

@erickinho1BRA

3 жыл бұрын

I just bought the spring edition SBGA413 But I almost considered getting the green one because it was STUNNING! Pictures don’t do it justice

Bruce, I think you nailed it. Few times I went to the Grand Seiko store thinking there is a good chance that I might pick one up that day and something was holding me back. I think you right its the bracelet.

A beautiful watch. 👌 Hey guys, why don't you like the power reserve indicator. I like these. You also have a level indicator/fuel gauge in your car. 🤷‍♂️

Spot on review! Was all set to buy this watch this Summer at the AD 5 blocks from my home🤪. In the case was the “new” SBGA 427/429 Soko. Long story short walked out with the SBGA429...for what I now know are the reasons that you iterated about 413. I enjoy wearing the GS so much, I bought my first Quartz in 25 years😮.

Thanks for the second take review. Am picking one of these up on Saturday. Looked at the watch last weekend and all it took was the AD sending me another picture to confirm that I want it. The weight is a little strange being titanium since normally you associate heft with price, but that dial and the case finishing are so impressive. Keep up the great videos.

@RickyRicon2023

3 жыл бұрын

what about the dial, is it pink? I don't really have a pink dial in a watch, but i woulk like to buy some GS, but i don't decide which model. i haven't seen yet in person, do you the dial es like silver, white and salmon and in some ocassion a litle pink ? what is your experience ... thanks a lot

@paulr6043

3 жыл бұрын

@@RickyRicon2023 No, it is not very pink at all. Only at certain angles otherwise it looks silver. Great dial.

Your doing a great job bro! I love the channel

I bought this watch exactly 1 month ago. It is as good as all these videos say it is. Beauty, accuracy, finishing,, all they say about it is true. I did change the bracelet into a croc strap with clasp within the first week. Here is one thing NO ONE is sharing in their reviews which absolutely caught me off guard; The automatic winding wheel is VERY noisy and you can definitely feel it when it's rotating, you have be def and numb on my wrist not feel/hear it. Its not a a deal break, i bought it after all, however would have been nice to know about it after watching all these reviews.

@trainingwolves7

8 ай бұрын

Truth

I just recently picked my first GS (SBGE201) and the only two complaints I have about the entire watch are also in regards to its bracelet. While it is VERY well-finished and ultimately has proven to be superbly comfortable after sizing it the absence of any microadjustments is an irritant. I was able to get a "just right" fit for myself, fortunately, because of the half link but not all wearers may have the same experience. My other negative is the 21mm lug width. While aftermarket options are not completely scarce they certainly are not as plentiful as there are 20mm or 22mm options. Great review and kudos for making sure it didn't land like 100% fanboi starstruck content. 😊

@watchingandseeing

3 жыл бұрын

Yes...most people just look at the head of the watch but forget about the bracelet. Rolex (Tudor) is the clear leader in modern bracelet. GS is not there yet...that’s how they cheap out. A common problem with all Seiko .

The finishing on GS destroys Rolex.

@Aztec1050

3 жыл бұрын

Patek Philippe looks like a $50 dollar watch when put side-by-side with my SBGW231

@melbguy1

3 жыл бұрын

I think the GS SLGH003 as an example is better finished than an AP Royal Oak

@yunlongwu8071

3 жыл бұрын

@@melbguy1 in your dream

@yunlongwu8071

3 жыл бұрын

@@melbguy1 do you even own SLGH003 ? you are everywhere lmao

Thanks for the review. If accuracy is your priority then the GS trumps the Swiss watches and the bracelet is a minor issue imo. Cheers.

@mdesmet9111

3 жыл бұрын

If Accuracy is your onely priority, then you should get a €50 Casio... To me the bracelet is often the part of the watch that disguinces those brands that pretend to be premium, from those that actually finish every single part of the watch with the exact same eye for detail and craftsmanship. No use in putting hours of handcrafting into the case, if you then neglect the bracelet.

@timmcdonald5335

3 жыл бұрын

@@mdesmet9111 Interesting point but Bruce's review is talking about mechanical watches not digital ones. Secondly, as Bruce said there is nothing wrong with the finishing and comfort of the bracelet only that it did not use screws. It is debatable that a screw system is better because screws can fall out.

@mdesmet9111

3 жыл бұрын

@@timmcdonald5335 Well Bruce also said it's not really a mechanical watch, but a hybrid, so if you make the step from mechanical to hybrid for accuracy, you can just as well switch completely to quartz. You're not comparing apples to apples anyways. I'm not saying screws are better, but I just said a well made bracelet is sign of good craftsmanship and eye for detail. I have owned a GS for a while and felt very disappointed with the bracelet. Almost as if they took a bracelet of a €300 Seiko and finished it a little better, but with the same quality. At that time it was my most expensive piece and I had other pieces, less than half the price, that had much better bracelets.

@timmcdonald5335

3 жыл бұрын

@@mdesmet9111 The Spring Drive is the most advanced mechanical watch technology in more than 20 years. At the end of the day it doesn't have a battery so, respectfully imo, the discussion about it being a hybrid is semantics. On the bracelet the Rolex bracelets were never perfect but they improved them. Have you worn a new GS with the new bracelets? Cheers.

I have that watch. The bracelet and the ease of snapping it on are part of the attractant for me.

Grand Seiko has beautiful dials, amazing polish on case, hands and indicators, but the quality and design of the bracelet and clasp are below the most of Swiss made.

@krit5339

3 жыл бұрын

I'm probably the only one, but I prefer a better dial over a better bracelet.

@emjay6213

3 жыл бұрын

I agree @MNCY but the awesome thing about bracelets and straps are that they can be replaced with what you want!

@mdesmet9111

3 жыл бұрын

@@krit5339 For €6000 I want both a good dial and a good bracelet!

@chris_4477

3 жыл бұрын

The bracelet always comes second. The most important thing in a watch design will always be the case and dial. Albeit, I too think there is room for improvement in their bracelets as well.

@melbguy1

3 жыл бұрын

...up until the SLGH003. As a sporty everyday watch (not a dive watch), the all new band on that watch is a clear step up from GS

I'm wearing a Journe right now, seriously contemplating to put it into the vault and get this as additional collection member and daily beater, maybe for spring only. am I crazy?

Bruce this hybrid movement is excellent but one finer detail I think we should iron out is the quartz oscillator or the electronic part that has a lifetime. What will happened if the said part is no longer available say 30 or 40 years down the road? Or it has becomes so scarce that it’s not readily available. What are your thoughts about it?

@rousseau327

2 жыл бұрын

If Grand Seiko doesn't abandon Spring Drive, there shouldn't be any shortages. Or if they do, some business owners are going to fill the niche and get reasonably rich :)

Looks like a complete, great looking, luxury watch. Swiss was certainly the standard for all watches, but are they still?

@jeroenvalkenet732

3 жыл бұрын

Highly depends what your standards are and for what price point. If your swiss standard is Longines yeah then they arent the standard anymore but if you consider Patek as the standard its a whole different story

@neoth8647

3 жыл бұрын

@@jeroenvalkenet732 After seeing the review of the Aquanaut by Hafiz recently, I don't think even Patek is a good standard to measure by

@Schlock3000

3 жыл бұрын

@@jeroenvalkenet732 The standard are German watches like Lange & Söhne.

do you like this version better then the winter version??

I just sold the high best blue dial version of this watch. I love GA bracelets because they are so comfortable. The issue I have with this model and the one I sold is they should have made an integrated bracelets for this unique case

I love the "Shunbun". I have that bracelet on another watch, and find it very comfortable, and it's such a welcome change from boring old oyster bracelets. I'm really over clunky oversized clasps. This clasp does not get in the way at all. Plus it helps with the weight reduction too. The 413 is my grail watch. The only change I would make is put the date at 6.

Craigy Boat here! Grand Seiko’s are the greatest watches in the history of the world!!!

Beautiful time piece ! I'm considering the sbga415 for my next purchase however I live in the uk. Apart from chrono 24 I don't know if I can get one from anywhere else. The London ad said that they cannot obtain it as it's a US model. I agree about the obscured movement and my other concern is the lack of adjustment on the bracelet.

I own this piece now after eyeing it for almost a year. But I agree 100% with your criticisms. I’d also add that GS spring drive movements are already not all that great to look at - well finished but not much visible mechanical goodness. The glide wheel is barely visible in the mechanical works. And if it’s possible to agree more than 100%, I would with respect to the asinine printing of the GS logo on the display case back. I seriously hate it. I may even ask GS if they could replace it with a clear case back when I send the watch in for service in 10 years or so.

@dopenough2smoke

2 жыл бұрын

Just take some goof off and wipe it off. I will probably do the same as soon as my Shunbun arrives next week

I strongly considered the Shunbun & even asked my local AD if they could order it in, but they told me they could not being a US-only edition. And ordering the watch from a US AD would have incurred significant import taxes and duties. That said, I'm glad I didn't pull the trigger on the Shunbun after watching this review. I agree with your view about the less solid pin/sleeve links and GS emblem on the caseback. I've also since learnt that titanium can become tarnished over time and develop a patina. Apparently it can be cleaned with soap and water, but clearly stainless steel won't have that issue.

Quartz SBGV207 is hands down my favorite Grand Seiko. Dying to get one :)

You can always buy Credor, another elite brand of Seiko. Even more desirable. ;)

Ended up parting with my Grand Seiko quartz precisely because of the bracelet. Half links weren't enough and the lack of microadjusts on the clasp left with a fit that was either too lose or too tight. The dial and case work was absolutely let down by the bracelet I think.

can the lion on the back be removed with some special liquid?

The Shunbun is precious!!!

Well they are designed to be flexible. I don't understand what you are talking about. I have one as well and the only thing that bugs me about the bracelet is that there are no micro adjustment.

Thanks for the review. I am deciding between this & a snowflake.

@schnaksl

Жыл бұрын

Both are awesome watches with their own character.

Love the dial (almost salmon like), love the finishing. I own a 25th anniversary GS so I fully understand the sharpness of the details and hands. Not a fan of this case design. Appreciate the other GS case designs especially the 44GS. Micro adjustments would have been great.

I currently own a Grand Lange in platinum, a steel AP royal oak, a SS daytona, an omega seamaster... and the last 4 watches i bought have all been GS.. and now a GS is on my wrist 95% of the time... watch wearing is very subjective... and for me personally nothing gives me the same feeling or experience as looking down on a GS... plus knowing that the watch was hand finished and assembled... i have the sbgh269 which has a very similar bracelet as the one you showed (but in steel) and if you blind folded me i would not be able to differentiate between it and my oyster bracelet that is on my daytona... no watch will ever be perfect.. every one will have an flaw.. when i was in the VC boutique trying on an overseas i couldn't get over the date window... whenever i looked at the watch that date window was the first thing i would notice and it drove me crazy... like a huge wart on someones face and i couldnt pull the trigger..and mind you the the overseas bracelet is probably the BEST feeling/wearing bracelet i have tried on (its tied with the royal oak bracelet)... but that date window ruined the watch for me.... its cliche to say and we have heard it so many times... but there really is no bang for you buck like a GS.. and my last 4 watch purchases have solidified this for me personally anyway

So good this one.

Taisetsu and shunbun and GS on the whole are the best watches of all time because quality is just insane. Also your introduction is just amazing, thank you so much for this video. I remember my disappointment in rolex when I saw it one at first because it feels like tissot for 1k but it costs 10 times much .On the whole Japan makes one of the best things in the world begining from anime industry and ending cars and equipment. If you have a possibility compare pls this beauty with winter season. Guys, sorry if I made mistakes cause english is not my native language)

@J69Nice

3 жыл бұрын

100% agree, I try and use Japanese products whenever I can (watches, cars, tennis rackets, audio equipment). My dream products are Mazda Miata and a Grand Seiko Spring Drive watch with a nature inspired dial of some sort.

@sleepdeprived9181

Жыл бұрын

Yes, my first watch bought with my hard-earned money was Rolex. I didn't feel satisfied with my purchase either. I didn't feel strongly about it than when I bought a GS. I'm sure the movement is good and the case is good and sturdy but that's about it. The clasp is good and is a status symbol.

Pins and collars are better patek use them as well as Gshock Screws become loose after a while especially with Vibrations Bracelet seems more comfortable with pins than screws because it makes the bracelet thinner

@malkinmalone

3 жыл бұрын

Ive had collars vibrate out too. I know they are cheaper but i like friction pins the best. You can size in like 2 minutes and there is less chance of scratching the bracelets while you are fumbling with a collar to get it in or if the screwdriver slips with screws. I think there is definitely room for improvement with all types but i suppose watch manufacturers would probably spend their money developing other things besides bracelet fasteners.

Grand Seiko themselves said they make their bracelets more flexible on purpose because for them it's functionality and comfort.

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

Yes it is a completely different philosophy that some will identify with, but many will not.

@mdesmet9111

3 жыл бұрын

Daniel Wellington says they use crap quartz movements on purpose because they are thin are still more accurate than automatic movements.

@metallicarockacion

3 жыл бұрын

@@mdesmet9111 except that actually never happened. Like if it was impossible for GS to manufacture a tighter bracelet. Woah soooo dificult to make a tight bracelet. Must be tooo much of a goal.

@mdesmet9111

3 жыл бұрын

@@metallicarockacion Oh yes clearly a fanboy... Swiss brands have struggled for decades to make bracelets that stand the test of time, don't flex in the wrong direction, while they are still very comfortable, but GS still makes them like Swiss brands did decades ago. Not because they cannot make a proper one, but just because they say a floppy flex bracelet is more comfortable... Just like they won't make the end links fit properly, not because they can't, but just because it looks better when they don't fit... 🙄

@rousseau327

2 жыл бұрын

@@mdesmet9111 GS does precision well enough that I hardly think it's a capability issue. Not to mention, I've worn my fair share of bracelets from Swiss brands...Omega, Rolex, JLC, Zenith, Oris, Tudor...the Grand Seiko bracelets are just fine. Many Swiss brands still do not have micro-adjustment, and most do not reach the levels of bracelet comfort Rolex has either. Yet, we never hear any complaints about them.

Nice video and amazing watch. The black and white shots are throwing me off though as those are usually used for look backs at clips from previous videos

I am wondering, if you have 6K to spend, then what do you buy instead?

Good job checking your biases - it builds confidence in the honesty of your reviews. But sometimes pieces are so good that the only thing you can say is that if you don't like it, maybe you don't like watches.

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

lol I can get behind that!

The watch looks great on your wrist.

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks man

Yes a good review and one does need to be aware of both the good the bad and the plum ugly. I find the watch astoundingly beautiful...the crunch will come when I try on the Titanium bracelet. The lack of on-the-fly adjustment might bother me....on the other hand the lighter weight of Titanium, which expands 40% lees than steel, might please me. I like the look of the soft bevelled links....but on my wrist it will be either right or wrong. The more problematic concern is having to return a 'spring drive' to Japan for servicing...but servicing seems to be a lengthy procedure with all higher end horology and comes with the territory.

This is a very versatile watch

Just bought the SBGA375 and absolutely love it. You are right about the bracelet but it looks and feels great on the wrist for me. So, I ignore it. The SBGA375 was not on my radar at all. The dial looks black on the website, but it’s really an outstanding blue. I looked at the seasons watches as well. I agree with your other criticisms, which is why I went with this one. No lion on the caseback and better case shape with high polish, mine has great light-play. My one major dislike is where the bracelet and lugs meet. The transition is not smooth, definitely stepped. The high polish is a fingerprint magnet too, but that’s expected.

@tcuker6819

3 жыл бұрын

It is probably heresy, but I wish my SBGA375 had lume, like my SBGV243. If it did, I would consider it a perfect daily or only watch. So, I wear my SBGV243 with lume on a Watch Steward single pass strap at night. I also have my vintage DateJust on a Watch Steward single pass strap and really like both the watch and strap. I have no complaints at all about my Grand Seiko bracelet. I seriously considered a new Rolex OP when I purchased my SBGA375. When I looked at everything, I just felt the Grand Seiko was a better choice. I'd buy it again.

@nathancreel8547

3 жыл бұрын

@@tcuker6819 I know what you mean. I both love and hate that it doesn’t have lume. You’re right, if it had lume it would be a perfect one watch, but without lume I think you can dress it up easier and those hands are mesmerizing. I definitely like it better than Rolex OP. Waiting on a datejust 41 dark rhodium myself 🙄.

Agreed! Hate when movements are obscured by markings on the caseback

@danisheverblue

3 жыл бұрын

The have that on a few other models of theirs.

Bruce, I appreciate your input on our appreciation for what we admire in watches. Yes it's obscure and head shaking at times but, meh... I am torn on Sea Master, (always thought that was going to be it) and GS Diver at the moment and you mention in this vid that perhaps you're not keen on the GS Diver. I've local stores here at the Gold Coast, Australia where I reside and have tried them both on, more than once (embarrassingly😬) My heart is saying GS for the movement and feel on wrist more so than the fit and finish of the Omega that I admire for its sharpness and precision. You may already have a vid on these two comparison..? One day I may buy a snow flake or 4 seasons but for now I'm still diver oriented. Not a GS fan boy as such, other than Victorinox I was attracted too and bought too many of early on in my collecting, these days I'm open minded and have many brands, not too snobby.🤗 Can you help here..? Probably not, but maybe...?😱 Cheers, Dave.

Have 2 GS, prefer to Rolex but is just me. I like the quality bracelets, but took them off as I prefer my GS’s on super high quality straps. Living in Montreal, we (I) have direct face to face access with Aaron, owner of Combat Straps. The thrill of choosing all the materials including stitching, Colors, shape etc just turns it so personal. It turns them from what I consider rather sporty watches, to a more classic “evening” watch.

Need this with the new 9SA5 movement, thinner, and without the power reserve.

love this video, love this watch❤️but not available in Austria😢😢😢

At least on the grand Seiko that I have, the lack of adjustability on the bracelet is a real problem. I can’t deal with those very small bracelet screws, so I have to bring it to a shop to be adjusted.

I absolutely agree with you. It has always been: 1. The bracelet and 2. the size/thickness. There are many brands out there with better bracelet and Grand Seiko need to change if they want to keep up with the luxury players.

The watch looks amazing. I didn’t quite understand what you didn’t like about the bracelet. Is it that it LOOKS inferior because of the lack of rigidity or that it FEELS inferior/less comfortable because of it? Personally I would like GS to vary the design of their bracelets a bit. They all look the same to me!

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

Its the way it feels 100 percent. Its a completely different design philosophy and unlikely to change anytime soon. Its perfectly beautiful and is comfortable. Technically the only thing it could really use is a better system for micro adjustments. But the feel is still underwhelming. Some will agree with me and some will see me as a snob. Its all good

@jacc88888

3 жыл бұрын

@@BruceWilliams The tactile experience is very important so I completely understand. To me I find the look of the bracelet underwhelming - very conservative. Also the limited micro adjusts could be an issue like you said. Thanks for replying 😀

Bought this watch last week in @ the Ginza GS store. Wasn't expecting to buy it but was convinced when I heard this watch has somewhat limited inventory AND pink tint is for sure special and a great conversation piece. Overall good watch and fits me well. Details on it are good and edges out Rolexes. The movement just glides/floats far better than any substantial mechanical watch. Con: bracelet already has a scratch from 3 days of normal wear. Probably scratched it on the plane seat belt buckle on the way back. Agree w/ the reviewer that the bracelet is underwhelming. I'm going to replace my bracelet with a colored leather bracelet that further accentuates the pink tint.

Love it... perfect compliment to the Snowflake and Omiwatari

Thanks, Bruce, yet another great review. I can't agree more with that marking in the back. At worst it's an insult to the effort the women and men put into the movement. They hid the movement somewhat with the rotor on SBGR321 I saw in Watchtime magazine Dec 2020. Also, for your review watch, somehow I still can't wrap my brain around spring drive. BUT OOOOH, THAT DIAL!

Would you sacrifice the finishing or movement for a better bracelet? Or pay 1-2k more for the better bracelet on the same watch? For me, the bracelet is the least important thing, as long as it's comfortable then it's fine for me. I am fine with the pin sleeves (Patek uses them too). I purchased 2 watches from Nick at exquisite timepieces (Seiko Ice Diver SPB179 and Omega Seamaster). I couldn't be happier with the service from him!

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

Nick is awesome. I have a package from him coming thursday with a couple more review watches inside. So excited!

@torqueofthedevil8145

2 жыл бұрын

Why would it cost 1-2k to add micro adjustment to the bracelet, probably not even $50 in manufacturing costs, it’s an epic fail at this price point.

@ajayr.5706

2 жыл бұрын

@@torqueofthedevil8145 you new here?

The thing I don't like about Grand Seiko is the fact that the beautiful Zaratsu polish is a scratch magnet and if you wear your piece regularly it will get covered with scratches

You got to love ‘em for coming up with different case styles. This one is just gorgeous and the pin and collar is more difficult to adjust but more reassuring if you ask me. I have a JLC master control and bought the beautiful bracelet separately (1500€...) and guess what: pin and collar system from the watchmakers watchmaker.... and bloody difficult compared to the GS. I wonder if you could really pin it down for yourself what exactly bothers you with the brand, being no stranger to loving extraordinary watch models like the Seikos you love so much. Maybe if you put down more money, you prefer the traditional watches from the Swiss. I personally have no problem in spending money with the non conformists.

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

I've thought a lot about it. I love the champagne dials the most. But most wither don't have the bracelet style I like, or the odd lug width, or no display back, or too tall. There always seems to be one thing that really nags at me... but I admit I am being silly because they should all be forgivable

@chancebanana

3 жыл бұрын

I guess one may solve the problems by swapping the GS logo into Patek Philipe. Surely the whole watch will look much better😍

You are not alone. Maybe because there are SO many Grand Seiko models that i my opinion it is easier o find little faults with each one of them. enough for you (or me) to say, maybe the next one I see will be "the perfect watch" but the longer we are in this hobby the more I believe the expression " there is no perfect watch" So yeah, for me this one is a non starter because of the logo on the caseback and I actually really do not like the design of their bracelets. I really like simpler ones. Also I don't want a titanium GS. I'd definitely want one in steel. Great review. it's too bad we didn't get to see the first take with the fawning ;-) !!

I looked at this watch and the SBGA415. Went with the 415 because it had a blue second hand. GS missed the chance to make this a home run if they had a red second hand.

My only gripe would be how far the crown sticks out

Shunbun cherry blossom or White birch ? What u think 🤔😎

i am never a bracelet person. i can never understand how some people become so particular over bracelet " quality" , just do the sizing ok at the start after buying a watch or owning one (if pre owned) and then wear it. my dad's rolex 16200 purchased in early 2000s have equality ordinary pressed clasp oyster bracelet too. nothing biggy.

@chancebanana

3 жыл бұрын

When you find nothing else to bug about, you bug about the bracelet, even if there's nothing objectively wrong about it. That's pretty much how Swiss snobs' world works.

Hi Bruce, At 3:10 it says “FULL REAIL” when showing the specs, so I think you dropped an T there. Otherwise: Awesome shots, as always! Really enjoining the content you hand out.

Warranty sucks...the user manual recommends a 3 yr service interval vs 8-10 years for Rolex /Tudor. They need at least a comparable warranty program for people to leap into this brand.

100% agree on the caseback screenprinting being a boneheaded design. Such a disaster on an otherwise nice watch.

Good review, but the two nit-picks you mention (case-back logo and bracelet design) don't bother me at all and are relatively minor compared to my biggest gripe, which you don't mention: the spring-drive meter on the dial. Why make such a stunningly beautiful dial and then throw that meter on there? It's creates clutter and takes away from the symmetry. For me, the dial is by far the most important thing on a watch. So I place a lot more emphasis on those design elements. That little meter on the dial is the one thing that gives me pause on this otherwise beautiful timepiece.

I have GS SBGH051, the only perceived flaw is how perfect it is. Afraid to wear the thing, can’t bear to see it marred in anyway. GS, both a treasure and a curse to the anal watchsters amongst us. Great review! Cheers.

Tudor Pelagos have screw links, why GS can't do it with a higher price watch?

@tcuker6819

3 жыл бұрын

Grand Seikos do have screw links on their steel watches. At least my SBGA375 does.

@saodavi6267

3 жыл бұрын

@@tcuker6819 The Pelagos is titanium too. Seiko says they can't use screws because of the Ti, but Tudor does it.

The end links don’t flow with the pigs very well at all

Totally agree with you about the bracelet. The GS watch case, bezel, face, hands, markers - they are all superb and a notch above pretty much anything below a Patek or AP. But the bracelets? Hmmmmm. It's almost like they are made by a different company. Often times, the metal doesn't even match the watch body, and also they don't even fit the watch that well. And pin and sleeve on a $5k watch??? Deary me. And it has nothing to do with titanium either. My Pelagos titanium bracelet - which is fabulous, btw - has screws. No idea why Grand Seiko are so lax about the bracelets.

With Bruce, "owned" doesn't last long. I'm recalling the "grail watch." Bruce which watches haven't you sold and have kept all along?

Only reservation is the 21mm lug width. 6 grand on a watch and now I have to buy straps I already own 1 mm wider. 😑

Hi Bruce, Bravo my thoughts exactly, I am not prepared to pay 6k for half a watch. The day GS give a braclet & clasp on the same level as the rest of the watch that's when I will consider parting with my money. They just don't feel the same as there Swiss & German counterparts.

@arkachatterjee5179

3 жыл бұрын

You’re missing out then. GS bracelets aren’t as good as Rolex ones, but they’re not THAT bad. And the watches are quite simply sublime. I have three GS LEs in my collection alongside Rolex, Zenith, and AP pieces and the GS’s occupy a distinctive place. The bracelets can be improved but to argue that they render the watch to be “half a watch” feels like a big exaggeration to me.

@marcocastagnetti7086

3 жыл бұрын

@@arkachatterjee5179 well if your happy with GS and there braclets then good for you. I own a GO and it's braclet is better than any GS braclets I have ever seen and thats 15 years old, looks like seiko need to do some catching up.

@arkachatterjee5179

3 жыл бұрын

@@marcocastagnetti7086, GO bracelets are better than most (including Rolex). I don't dispute that the GS bracelets could improve. But I do dispute that they are so bad that they might as well not exist (which is how bad they would need to be for a GS to be "half a watch." But to each their own.

@rousseau327

2 жыл бұрын

@@marcocastagnetti7086 I'm finding it hard to believe the bracelet is actually that much of a dealer breaker on the GS, when in the same ballpark quality with similar bracelets from Omega (e.g. Aqua Terra), Zenith (El Primero), JLC (Polaris), etc. Basic 3-link pieces, no micro-adjustment, twin trigger release. It's not going to blow you away, but it's hardly a point of contention to not buy the watch, when it's not considered one for so many popular Swiss watches.

For $5,500 to $6,000 is a very good watch. I like Rolex , but I don’t need another Rolex in my collection. Bought 415 a week ago, 413 is hard to find right now.

GS ! FTW !

Yes the bracelet, i think i would look for a much more height quality one, throw down even more money.

The movement doesn’t have a lever escapement and balance. Is it completely antimagnetic?

@greenerick

3 жыл бұрын

Not sure about that 🤔 probably more antimagnetic than other automatics But accuracy is brilliant

@bernardolhgc

3 жыл бұрын

It's anti-magnetic up to around 4800 gauss as per the instruction booklet

@greenerick

3 жыл бұрын

@@bernardolhgc how much is that antimagnetic compared to the Omega Seamaster 😳 movement

@bernardolhgc

3 жыл бұрын

I believe the Omega Seamaster is 15000. Grand Seiko recommends to stay at least 5cm away from magnetic sources.

@bernardolhgc

3 жыл бұрын

Grand Seiko is certified by ISO 764 standard which basically prevents any problems when passing accidentally nearby a magnetic source (hence the 4,800 gauss which is a requirement of the ISO 764)

If you're a strap guy - no issue. If not, semi issue. This is definitely a point where GS loses out. I don't believe it would be THAT hard to improve the bracelet. Perhaps a 10% price hike model wide? Worth it if better!

If you could get a grand Seiko skyflake and do a comparison with this.

Absolutely love it except for that hideous graffiti on the caseback.

First! For a Brucie Bonus!

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

Double Brucie Bonus awarded to you!

@doppelwrist4658

3 жыл бұрын

@@BruceWilliams Yaaaaaay!!

he bracelet is probably like that because your arm is not cylindrical It may be more comfortable.

This is the second or third time I've heard you say "stupid" or "bone-headed" or dumb in regard to the caseback seals on the back of the watch. GS watches have had the lion seal on the back of their watches as a staple of their design for quite some time. It's apart of their design language. For solid caseback watches they have it in metal and it may look more natural, but it's not a "stupid" decision. It's an artistic decision. Maybe a smaller lion seal could be placed on the rotor and maybe accomplish the same design injection for heritage but I certainly don't think it's stupid to have the seal on the sapphire.

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

True, but I prefer the way they used to do it. My first GS had the seal screened ever so faintly on the sapphire back. You could only see it if you where looking for it. Way better to do it that way. Subtle, and almost like an Easter Egg. I still stand by my choice of words for the way it was executed on this SBGA413. In fact it really looks clunky and like an afterthought

@ZZ-em7km

3 жыл бұрын

@@BruceWilliams I agree that if this was more transparent I'd like it better. BUT I didn't think it was something that really affected the overall piece IMHO. I did not like it when I tried it on for other personal reasons. Namely titanium lightness and the bubble sapphire. No such thing as a perfect watch!

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

@@ZZ-em7km so true!

@WeibenWang

3 жыл бұрын

I have this watch, so I'll say it too. It's dumb, it stupid, it's inexcusable, it ruins the caseback. I love the watch despite it. Teddy B. said it (he was more polite), Watchfinder said it ("inexcusable"), now here, so I feel like I'm in good company.

grand seikos are beautiful. but i prefer citizen chronomasters now. am still using my kidneys so... no for both 😂

I know if I did a video, I would cringe when I viewed it later. It took many years of recording vocals in bands/solo before I felt any comfort with my voice. I like GSs but many times I am left thinking I would rather have a Rolex for a little more money. Now, with all the Rolex BS, GSs are starting to make more sense to me. The only drag for me is the mismatch between a very stainless steel sports watch look but no lume. That bothers me. --Michael

@BruceWilliams

3 жыл бұрын

I cringe a lot while I edit haha

I have a GS spring drive and I dont like the bracelet. Changed it to a leather strap. I prefer my Rolex oyster bracelet. GS needs to add micro adjustments.

Great review! Keep them coming! Love these watches but like you said, that tacky gold screening obscuring the movement on the back was such a mistake. Was seriously considering the SBGA375 but that screening turned me off.

Hey Bruce, as far as the bracelet is concerned, I don't think this is generally bad, since you only size it once. Since the bracelet is very comfortable, the pin and collar system is not really a negative. Yes, it could be optimized, but it plays no role in the comfort on the wrist. Cheers, Jack

#grailgoal