The twentieth anniversary of the 9S mechanical caliber is an occasion to look both back into Grand Seiko’s history and forward to new opportunities. This new Ceramic Hi-Beat limited edition speaks of both the past and the future and does so in the spirit of the 9S caliber that it celebrates.

The inner case and outer bracelet links are crafted from the very light high intensity titanium. The outer case and the center links of the bracelet are made of the new Grand Seiko blue zirconia ceramic, a material that is seven times harder than stainless steel so that the watch is virtually impervious to scratches. Behind the sapphire case back, titanium and tungsten combine in the oscillating weight to resist distortion even when the watch is subjected to shock.

The titanium section of the weight is treated with an anodic oxidation process that creates a new, rich and vivid blue that complements the Grand Seiko blue of the ceramic and the dial. In its use of these advanced materials, this remarkable watch echoes and celebrates the advanced watchmaking that made possible the first 9S caliber twenty years ago.

Anodic oxidation treatment

This is a surface treatment in which metals are subjected to electrolysis so as to generate artificially an oxide film. Titanium oxide film produces color according to the light refraction index, enabling production of different colors by varying the thickness of the oxide film.

Its performance is as remarkable as its construction. The hi-beat movement has been specially adjusted to the Grand Seiko “Special” standard and offers a precision rate of +4 to -2 seconds per day, a level even higher than the Grand Seiko standard itself. The “SPECIAL” mark on the dial and the 18k rose gold Grand Seiko lion insert in the oscillating weight bear witness to this high precision achievement.

This watch is offered in a limited edition of 350 and will be available in July 2018 at the Grand Seiko and Seiko boutiques worldwide as well as at other selected Grand Seiko retailers.

Grand Seiko Blue Ceramic Limited Edition: SBGJ229G

Caliber 9S86

Driving system: Automatic

Vibrations: 36,000 vibrations per hour (10 beats per second)

Accuracy: +4 to -2 seconds per day (when static)

Power reserve: 55 hours

GMT hand

Number of jewels: 37

Specifications

High-intensity titanium and ceramic case

High definition dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating

See-through screw case back, Screw-down crown

Water resistance: 10 bar

Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m

Diameter: 46.4mm, Thickness: 14.6mm

High-intensity titanium and ceramic bracelet

with three-fold clasp with push button release

Approximate recommended retail price in Europe: 15,000 Euro

Limited edition of 350