Grand Seiko Mechanical Hi-Beat GMT “Yukigesho” SBGJ271

Nature and architecture inspired this classic Grand Seiko design.

From the SBGA211 “Snowflake” to the SBGY007 “Omiwatari,” many of Grand Seiko’s watches draw inspiration from Japan’s famous winter landscape. Today, Grand Seiko continues that tradition with the launch of the newest addition to the brand’s Elegance collection, the SBGJ271 “Yukigesho”.

The motif here, first introduced on reference SBGH269, features a red dial that captures the look of autumn leaves and reflects the lacquered wood floors commonly found in traditional Japanese architecture. For the SBGJ271, the dial does a similar job, but replaces the vibrant fall hues with white, reminiscent of snow-covered trees. It brings to mind “Yukigesho,” a poetic expression used to describe snow. This clean, highly dynamic pattern is instantly eye-catching and lends a new dimension to this classic, quintessential Grand Seiko design.

The hands and hour markers are polished to a razor edge to catch the light and make the time legible even in semi-darkness. The GMT hand is black with an easy-to-read 24-hour ring, allowing the wearer to quickly track the second time zone. The SBGJ271 is an excellent travel companion with its refined and understated appearance combined with user-friendly features.

The case design adopted by the SBGJ271 has become a mainstay of the Grand Seiko Elegant Collection, having previously appeared on models SBGJ217 and SBGJ219, as well as the expanded models of the 2021 Japan Season Collection SBGJ249 and SBGJ251. Measuring 39.5mm in diameter and 13.9mm thick, the case is a contemporary reinterpretation of the first Grand Seiko design from 1960, topped by a vintage-style box-shaped sapphire crystal. The middle case is beautifully round with Zaratsu polished facets along the curved lugs. SBGJ271 comes with a stainless steel bracelet with a three-fold clasp.

There is a sapphire display window on the back of the watch, allowing the wearer to see the beautiful movement inside. The SBGJ271 is equipped with a Hi-Beat GMT Caliber 9S86. The 9S86 runs at 36,000 bph, has a 55 hour power reserve and an accuracy rating of +5/-3 seconds per day. Grand Seiko’s high-frequency movement features lightweight components realized through MEMS, and a proprietary Spron alloy mainspring and hairspring, maintaining a 55-hour power reserve while running at a beat rate of 36,000 bph. best quality watch replica