Grand Seiko SBGM001 Automatic GMT Review

cazalea · 2014-03-13T20:38:01Z

In-depth review of the Grand Seiko SBGM001, a quintessential modern sports watch. Explore its black dial, 9S56A movement, and exceptional finishing.

cazalea

WPS member · Seiko forum

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Cazalea presents an in-depth profile of the Grand Seiko SBGM001, which he considers the quintessential modern Grand Seiko sports watch. This detailed examination covers the watch's aesthetic and mechanical attributes, offering a comprehensive look at its design, finishing, and movement. The post serves as a valuable resource for collectors interested in the nuances of this specific Grand Seiko reference.

In this post, as part of our SEIKO PROFILE SERIES, we will be inspecting a Grand Seiko SBGM001 -- what I believe to be the quintessential, modern Grand Seiko sports watch. It features:

Black Dial
Applied markers
Sword Hands
Automatic movement 9S56A with 50-hr reserve and 27 jewels
Screw down crown
Crown Protectors
Stainless Steel case
Bracelet with flip clasp and push-button-release
Sapphire crystal
Date
GMT hand and bezel (non-turning)

(Note, you may have read this material before, in answer to a question about Seiko finishing. I chose to repeat it in this PROFILE Series for consistency of presentation in years to come ...)

Here it is in slightly brighter light. The GMT non-rotating bezel frames the watch. This specimen is 7-8 years old, and replaced one I owned earlier and foolishly traded away in a complex, multi-watch swap. I didn't clean or prepare it for this session - it's been worn carefully but regularly and never serviced.

The bracelet has two push-buttons which must be depressed to unlatch the deployant clasp. There is no micro-adjustment in this clasp.

As befitting a tool watch, there is no window in the case back. Instead, we see the Grand Seiko Lion, apparently cast and affixed to the back cover.

As is the case with many Grand Seikos, the lugs are drilled to enable the spring bars to be removed with no damage to the lugs (yes, I know the pros don't damage lugs but we owners have been known to do so, especially on very tight-fitting bracelets, such as this one). The links are smooth and no hairs are pulled (nor skin pinched) when wearing this watch.

A reverse-cut bezel adds interest when you view the case from the side.

The crown is hefty and bears the GS initials. Screws are used to connect the links of the bracelet. A slight dome on the crystal appears here.

This angle shows you the vertical height of the inner dial area - no crowding on the hands and the curvature of the very long second hand is apparent.

The view from 3 o'clock displays the curves and surfaces of the case and bracelet. The chamfers, polishing and brushing are far better than other watches I own in this price range.

Let's look inside. This is my first SBGM001, which was opened by my watchmaker while I nervously watched and took pictures with a mediocre camera. You see the well finished inside of the case back.

We see stripes, a fair number of sharp edges, and lots of polished shiny bits.

A different angle allows us to discern the 27 jewel count, the 6 position and temperature adjustment, polished screwheads, and o-ring case seal.

Finally, a closer look at edges, threads, gold-filled letters, etc. Nice but not concours in appearance - although quite good in performance.

Here are the specs used for testing each movement for 17 days, and the final results for my watch.

The packaging:

Now let's put the lid back on it and get back to field testing. The sporty Grand Seiko braves the cold ocean air to tells me this ship was passing by just before 9:42 am on the 7th of March.

A leisurely glance at the watch reveals the fabulous reflectivity of the dial and some interesting, almost digital stair-stepping patterns emerging from the polished inner surfaces of the case, the dial markers and the hands.

Thank goodness there was no sunlight or we would be blinded.

The beautiful aesthetic of the hands draws the eyes up from the scruffy cuffs of my windbreaker.

What is this watch missing? What are its shortcomings? It's a bit small at 39.5mm, it has no lume, the hands are a bit delicate. And it's mighty hard to photograph. I have no other complaints.

The price point for these watches is in the $3k-$6k range depending on your preference for used or new. I hope someday you have a chance to feel and experience the heft, comfort and assurance that this GRAND SEIKO watch provides.

Cazalea

This message has been edited by cazalea on 2014-03-13 20:40:48

About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGM001

The SBGM001 is a notable reference within the Horological Meandering collection, distinguished by its GMT complication. This model was among the early offerings that established the brand's reputation for high-quality finishing and precise mechanical movements, particularly in the realm of practical complications for travelers. It represents a period where the brand was solidifying its design language, blending traditional watchmaking aesthetics with a distinct approach to dial execution and hand design. The integration of the GMT function is executed with clarity, providing a second time zone display without cluttering the dial.

This reference features a stainless steel case, measuring 39.5mm in diameter, which provides a balanced presence on the wrist. It is powered by the automatic caliber 9S56, known for its robust construction and accuracy. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 50 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, ensuring durability and scratch resistance, while also providing a clear view of the meticulously finished dial. The caseback is also equipped with a sapphire crystal, allowing for observation of the movement.

The SBGM001 appeals to collectors who appreciate understated design combined with functional complications. Its black dial variant offers a classic and versatile aesthetic, making it suitable for various occasions. As an early GMT model from the brand, it holds a specific place in the lineage of their mechanical offerings and is often sought after by those interested in the evolution of the brand's mechanical watchmaking. The combination of its practical complication and refined execution makes it a significant piece for enthusiasts.

Specifications

Caliber: 9S56

Case: Stainless Steel

Diameter: 39.5mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The author shared additional wristshots of the SBGM001 from various European cities, showcasing its versatility and appeal as a travel companion.
A collector fondly recalled the SBGM001's glossy black dial and 'amazing sword hands,' noting its refined appearance made it unsuitable for rough use, despite its sporty look.
Another owner praised the SBGM001 as a favorite travel watch and an excellent everyday companion, confirming its accuracy at a stable +3.5 seconds per day.
A contributor highlighted the SBGM001's exceptional value, noting its reliability, accuracy, consistency, and top-notch case and bracelet finishing compared to its price point.
The author agreed that the watch is not suited for strenuous activities like working on a car or rock climbing, and humorously acknowledged the difficulty of adhering to the 'can't own every watch forever' sentiment.
An additional wristshot was provided, further illustrating the watch's presence and design on the wrist.

The Discussion

KIH

Mar 13, 2014

.. compared to the price point, this (and other GS) is really a bargain..... Reliability, accuracy, consistency, and finish of the case, bracelet - top notch for sure. Thanks for reminding us all of this marvelous model.... Ken

secretlife

Mar 14, 2014

I remember this watch very fondly. Alas, I no longer have it as it was not getting enough wrist time. Sporty as it looked, I could never bear to wear it "sporty-ly"... It simply looked far too nice and refined for rough use. I remember getting lost in the glossy blackness of the dial mostly, and those AMAZING sword hands! Apparently, they were sharp enough to actually cut; now how do you not fall in love with factoids like that?! (",) I realise now that I cannot (and should not!) hold on to ever

cazalea

Mar 14, 2014

I agree that it\'s a watch you wouldn\'t wear when working on the car or rock climbing... I\'m still working on the "can\'t own every watch forever" bit ... Mike

gup502

Mar 22, 2014

Thanks for the great review. Indeed the GS GMT is one of my favorite travel watch. In my opinion, it was designed to be worn as an everyday watch. A good companion wherever one goes. There are some who have doubt in GS keeping up with accuracy, but my own experience is a stable +3.5 seconds per day.

cazalea

Mar 24, 2014

Brussels London and Paris Cheers (and brrrr) Cazalea

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