Grand Seiko SBGH273 Shubun

DougFNJ

6 months ago

I had stopped by one of my favorite watch stores about a month ago to try on the blue Tag Heuer Link. As much as I like the look of watches with integrated bracelets, I never seem to bond with them when I try them on.

Walked over to the Grand Seiko section and was immediately sucked in by the SBGH273 Shubun of the four seasons series. I love the nature based inspirations Grand Seiko uses on their dials. This linen dial was inspired by the clear autumn night.

The steel has the perfect heft, and the finish has amazing details mixing multiple edges with zaratsu high polish alternating with fine brushing on the sides. Every angle of this watch was so well thought out. The bracelet is comfortable and also well finished, I like that the clasp folds over and sits comfortable flat on the bottom of my wrist.

I don’t tend to like to draw the Grand Seiko vs Rolex comparisons, but it fits in so nicely next to my white stick dial Datejust 41 on Jubilee with fluted bezel. They compliment each other nicely.

Typically when I think Grand Seiko, my mind moves right to Spring Drive. This one uses the 9S85 movement. The sweep of this high beat gold second hand is almost as smooth moving around the dial.

The only 2 things I wish they did was some kind of micro adjustment, but mixing the half links provided me a perfect fit. And I wish there was lume, but that would had taken away from the beautifully finished hands.

I have been so impressed with this watch. The 40mm with the thickness fits perfectly on my 7 1/2 inch wrist. Typically I’m used to sunburst dials when looking at blue watches. This linen dial plays so well with the light, and the gold highlights give it an elegant touch. I love versatility, and this watch can easily dress up or down. The drilled lugs were another nice touch if I wanted to change it up with leather straps.

Nothing like being so satisfied with a purchase.