Grand Seiko SBGW033 in the Garden

cazalea · 2015-03-31T15:40:24Z

Explore the Grand Seiko SBGW033, a 130th-anniversary manual-wind model, through stunning garden photography. Discover its vintage-inspired design and MEMS technology, and why collectors cherish this reference.

cazalea

WPS member · Seiko forum

5 replies2271 views29 photos

Cazalea invites readers to appreciate the understated beauty of the Grand Seiko SBGW033 through a series of outdoor photographs. This post highlights a special 130th-anniversary edition, drawing attention to its vintage-inspired design and the advanced MEMS technology within its manual-wind movement.

Purists, it's the last day of March and Spring is here in California. Do you mind a little outdoors photo shoot with a Grand Seiko watch?

I was wearing this watch this morning. It's called Grand Seiko SBGW033 and was issued on Seiko's 130th anniversary. (1881+130=2011) The following photo came from my 7-part series a few years ago, called Gaggle of GSs. (click the link to view).

As I took some photos while whale watching this morning, I thought to myself "This is a beautiful watch. Why don't I wear it more often?" Then I forgot the watch and attended to the marine excursion.

On the way back in I thought maybe I should do a photo session on this watch - we need some simple beauty as a respite for this week's hectic activities and societal and political turmoil. And it's not a well-known piece.

So when I got home I had lunch, grabbed my camera, and headed for the back garden (and did some research too, because while "photos only" is the hallmark of some watch / social media sites, I believe PuristS like beauty AND facts).

If you are not familiar with this model, it's styled like the original Grand Seiko from 1960. Manual wind. Blued second hand. Stainless steel case.

This watch's movement uses MEMS technology. Seiko says:

"MEMS technology is a skill transferred to Grand Seiko from Seiko's semi-conductor making division. A part made by MEMS is more durable than a machined part, and it is more resistant to abrasion. SEIKO's MEMS technology delivers precision in manufacturing 2 to 5 times greater than any machining process on Earth.

MEMS is an abbreviation for micro-electro-mechanical systems—a state-of-the-art processing technology used to manufacture semiconductors and other high-precision components. MEMS differs from the old metal processing methods of pressing, cutting, and polishing.

Instead, shapes are made using photolithography (a process similar to developing photos using light-sensitive chemicals), on top of which a thick plating is deposited using electroforming technology. This processing method allows the manufacturing of complex shapes with greater accuracy than cutting, and also produces smoothly finished surfaces. In addition, hard materials can be used for parts while slightly adjusting the shape to keep the weight down, thereby greatly improving the accuracy and durability of the watch parts."

The 9S64 movement contains a SPRON mainspring which despite being in a normal barrel, gives 72 hours of running time. Seiko says:

"The precision and power reserve of a mechanical watch depend greatly on the quality of the balance spring and main spring. SEIKO's unique alloy, SPRON 510, leads the industry by delivering extended power and accuracy. SPRON is a registered trademark of Seiko Instruments Inc."

As far as the case goes, it's 36mm x 10.5mm, snap back, with Zaratsu polishing. Seiko says:

"Every surface of each case and bracelet is polished by the experienced craftsmen.The mirror finish on the case side surface has no distortion. The process is known as Zaratsu or blade polishing and is made by carefully applying a rotating tin plate against the case at a very precise angle. This process is entrusted to only the most skillful and experienced craftsmen and women."

Black leather strap. Lined with smooth leather.

Typical Grand Seiko hands and markers.

To ensure perfect legibility in poor light conditions the hands and markers have a specially sculpted shape and their surface is very carefully polished to a razor edge, so that even the slightest ray of light reflects off their surfaces."

Lion cast in the back, and deeply textured buckle.

The font used on the dial is more elaborate than today's Grand Seiko text. The dial itself is a milky creamy white.

The high-crowned crystal adds a subtle touch of vintage to the watch, as does the very long second hand.

The heat-blued second hand is striking.

But not to the leaf hopper on our edible nasturtiums.

The dial also says Diashock which is Seiko's term for its shock mounting system for the main jewels in the movement.

The little spring shown below.

I moved to the front garden for a small change of scenery.

Roses

Bougainvillea and Trumpet Vines

Cactus

Thanks for stopping by for a look.

If you have an extra 2 minutes you could check out the video

PS - here's the pesky whale who interrupted my photo session....

About the Grand Seiko Ref. SBGW033

The Grand Seiko SBGW033 is a limited edition model released to commemorate the 130th anniversary of Seiko's founding. It is a re-creation of the original Grand Seiko from 1960, capturing the aesthetic and proportions of that seminal timepiece. This reference is distinguished by its faithful adherence to the design principles of the first Grand Seiko, offering a direct link to the brand's heritage of precision and craftsmanship. It represents a significant piece for collectors interested in the foundational designs of Grand Seiko.

The watch features a stainless steel case, carefully polished to a high standard, measuring 37.6mm in diameter. It houses the manual-winding Caliber 9S64, known for its stable performance and a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. The dial is protected by a box-shaped sapphire crystal, which enhances the vintage appeal while providing modern scratch resistance. The solid case back further emphasizes its classic design.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate historical re-creations and the understated elegance of early Grand Seiko designs. Its limited production run makes it a sought-after piece within the collector community. The SBGW033 stands as a testament to Grand Seiko's enduring design language and its commitment to mechanical watchmaking, offering a blend of historical significance and contemporary quality.

Specifications

Caliber: 9S64

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 37.6mm

Dial: Ivory

Water Resist.: 3 bar

Crystal: Box-shaped sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Grand Seiko watches are highly regarded for their precision parts, exceptional durability, and practicality, with cases considered among the best in the industry.
The SBGW033, while a notable release in 2011, was initially overshadowed by other models like the Zenith El Primero, but remains a cherished piece among collectors.
The author expresses a preference for watches without a date window, highlighting the clean aesthetic of the SBGW033.

The Discussion

Luis6

Mar 31, 2015

why can't all GS watches come with only "Grand Seiko" on the dial, just like this one?

cazalea

Mar 31, 2015

Why can\'t all watches come without a date window like this one? We\'ll never know the answer ...

KIH

Apr 1, 2015

Yes, what GS is great about are: - precision parts with durablility - everything is made for "practicality" - case is one of the best made, if not THE best, in the industry. Thank you, Mike!! Ken

Dr No

Apr 3, 2015

. . . when it was introduced in 2011, but edged out by the Zenith EP. That one, in turn, left to make way for the SBGW044 two years later. I believe pplater owns one; a few other Purists, too, but can't remember right off the top of my head. Art

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About the Grand Seiko Ref. SBGW033

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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