First up are two new models making use of the modern rendition of the 44GS case with Grand Seiko’s 9S85 hi-beat automatic caliber beating away inside. This case, when matched with a hi-beat GMT movement, has become a favorite pairing, matching what is perhaps Grand Seiko’s most distinctive case shape with a special movement that remains firmly planted in old-school watchmaking traditions. These new watches represent the first time that this 44GS case has been paired with a time and date only hi-beat movement. Two new references in this configuration will be available in March: the SBGH277, with a silver sun-ray dial and blued steel seconds hand, and the SBGH279, with a grey dial with vertical satin finish.

Both watches are mounted on a stainless steel bracelet, and can easily shift between dress watch duty and a more daily wear style, depending on the attire you choose to pair them with. While this case makes particularly great use of Grand Seiko’s zaratsu polishing, giving it a touch of glitz that most sports watches wouldn’t touch, it’s also quite robust, with a screw down crown and water resistance to 100 meters.