Grand Seiko

After extensive forum and shop trolling I bought a Grand Seiko a few weeks ago (SBGL001J).

One of the things i really like about it is the understatement. In my environment people tend to frown upon flashy and expensive things. A rolex would be a sure sign i am trying to be a pimp, feel like i am better then they are or want to show i have more money then them.

Nobody except some WIS knows what this costs. When my colleagues ask me I tell them it cost me €449,- and they usually respond with something like:"wow, so much for a seiko?!".
I usually laugh a bit inside knowing it costs exactly ten times what i told them..

Granted i should not let 'them' dictate what i buy or not, but to be honest that negative feeling about a rolex or otherwise noticably expensive accessory has been imbedded in me as well (through cultural indoctrination)

anyway, no real question or anything here, just wanted to share this story and show off a bit

Fantastic watch!

I happened upon the line a year ago, and became obsessed. Constantly tracking the [limited] North American used market and such.

I'll probably start off with a smaller quartz Grand Seiko, but the mechanical watches are ultimate.

Nice watch. Not many except a watch connoisseur would know how much you paid and how well these were made. I would take a Grand Seiko over many different Rolex models any time of the day. Enjoy wearing it.

I think you would really enjoy wearing them knowing that only you and the rare few appreciate how well made they are. I was looking at the spring drive line myself.

Question along these lines, I recently have been finding out more about Orient and their Star line. Are these a quality piece as well? I know Seiko has a controlling stake in them and they share a lot of resources but don't know much beyond that. Is it better to just hold out for a Seiko?

Lovely watch. No need to feel embarrassed for being humble. There's nothing wrong with appreciating it for what it is without the need to boast to everyone how amazing or expensive Grand Seikos are.

Originally Posted by goldknots

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Question along these lines, I recently have been finding out more about Orient and their Star line. Are these a quality piece as well? I know Seiko has a controlling stake in them and they share a lot of resources but don't know much beyond that. Is it better to just hold out for a Seiko?

orient is in the Times price range, quality wise probably the same, which means a good value for the money. orient is auto and has different designs, some of them interesting so in that sense its a bit better than timex. Seiko's are cheap enough where you can get a high quality diver/dress watch for $200 or under. Grand Seiko's are over $5K and they are worth it. I need to kop a Marine Master.

Great watches. What about servicing? Do you have to sendt it to Japan?

A great watch that I would love to own, but never would buy unless deeply discounted. I do have a lovely Asian market only Seiko power reserve calendar that is incredibly well made, well decorated and keeps excellent time. I have also been lusting for a Spring Drive power reserve. But, I cannot justify the prices.

Enjoy it, it is a beaut.

Mike

Great watch at an amazing price. I would say even at retail price, Grand Seikos are a steal.

A beautiful timepiece!

we were just discussing this tonight.. just saying..

all good..

Is it the Spring-drive Seiko? I would avoid those, an automatic movement with a micro chip...

Originally Posted by edmorel

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orient is in the Times price range, quality wise probably the same, which means a good value for the money. orient is auto and has different designs, some of them interesting so in that sense its a bit better than timex. Seiko's are cheap enough where you can get a high quality diver/dress watch for $200 or under. Grand Seiko's are over $5K and they are worth it. I need to kop a Marine Master.

What is the difference between a normal automatic Seiko vs a GS which would command such a price jump?