Grand Seiko has announced the release of the limited-edition Elegance SBGW325 watch, a tribute to its historically significant SBGW003 model. Set to be available from October 2026 at Grand Seiko Boutiques, the new timepiece will be priced at EUR 5,700 or USD 5,800.
Honouring a Legacy
The SBGW325 revives the distinct dial layout of the original SBGW003, which was notable as the first manual-winding 9S model in 2001. According to Monochrome Watches, the SBGW003 was equipped with the Calibre 9S54, the brand’s first hand-wound in-house movement from its modern return, and was pivotal in re-establishing Grand Seiko’s identity for a global audience, serving as the foundation for modern manual-winding movements like the Calibre 9S64 (https://monochrome-watches.com/grand-seiko-elegance-sbgw325-tribute-to-the-first-manual-winding-9s-model-sbgw003-introducing-price/). Its design also looked back to the brand’s 1960s collection, offering a more subtle and elegant aesthetic compared to many other Grand Seiko models.
Design and Features of the SBGW325
The new SBGW325 features a deep navy dial, inspired by Japan’s traditional indigo-dyeing techniques, a detail noted by Fratello Watches (https://www.fratellowatches.com/hot-take-grand-seiko-introduces-the-sbgw325/). It brings back the boldly raised Arabic numerals of the SBGW003, now silver-toned, complemented by Dauphine hands. A touch of gold is visible on the seconds hand and the applied Grand Seiko logo.
The watch maintains a polished stainless steel case with a 37.3mm diameter, 11.7mm thickness, and a lug-to-lug measurement of 44.3mm. A box-shaped sapphire crystal protects the dial, while a screw-secured transparent caseback offers a view of the movement. Water resistance is rated as “splash-resistant.”
Included with the watch are two quick-release leather straps: a hand-dyed blue crocodile strap and a lighter grey cow leather strap, offering versatile styling options.
The Calibre 9S64 Movement
Powering the SBGW325 is the manual-winding Calibre 9S64, a direct descendant of the 9S54 movement found in the original SBGW003. This modern movement boasts an enhanced power reserve of 72 hours, or three days, an upgrade from the 9S54’s 50 hours. The 9S64 operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, contains 24 jewels, and has an accuracy rating of +5 to -3 seconds per day under Grand Seiko’s specified testing conditions. The movement’s decoration, including stripes and a concave barrel cover, is visible through the caseback.
Initial Reactions to the New Model
Some watch enthusiasts have offered early feedback on the SBGW325’s design, particularly its thickness. Comments highlighted by Fratello Watches suggest that the 11.7mm case thickness is considered substantial for an elegant, manual-wound watch, especially given its “splash-resistant” water rating. The reintroduction of Arabic numerals has also drawn varied responses, with some finding the new model more conservative than the original SBGW003, which was described as “flamboyant” at the time of its release.
