Grand Seiko’s latest addition to their sport collection could be coming to you straight from Pride Rock. Simba may not be actually wearing the watch, but the King of Beasts was definitely the inspiration. Grand Seiko’s SBGC253 Spring Drive Chronograph GMT employs the characteristics of the Japanese watchmaker’s iconic lion symbol in its design. First debuted in 1960, the lion design has been a part of Grand Seiko’s history ever since, and continues to be a part of it now.
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The lion-esque features start with the case, which has sharp and angular corners meant to symbolizs a lion’s claw. The case, as well as the link bracelet, is made of high-intensity titanium, which has the benefit of being light than the typical stainless steel but also polished to a much brighter look. Importantly, Grand Seiko has adorned this chronograph with curved lugs, making the task of actually wearing the watch more comfortable. The dial is decorated with a “lion’s mane” textured patterns act captures the light at any angle. The indices offer their own light thanks to their green Lumibrite coating, while the bezel and GMT are also coated for visibility in the dark, but this time in blue.
The case measures 44.5 mm in order to house the Calibre 9R86 Spring Drive automatic movement. This movement gives the watch time, date, stopwatch, and GMT functionality and will stay accurate within plus or minus 0.5 seconds per day, or a total of plus or minus 10 seconds over the course of a month. It also comes with a 72-hour power reserve, which is indicated at 8 o’clock.
You can catch a glimpse of the inner workings thanks to the see-through screw case back, which is also branded with an engraved serial number. The watch offers water resistance up to 200 meters. The bracelet uses thick, H-shaped links to wrap around any wrist size thanks to the slide adjuster. It closes with a three-fold clasp with a. Push button release. The Grand Seiko Chronograph GMT model SBGC253 is definitely fit for monarchy, given its price—a cool AUD$17,950. For that amount, you’ll get a stylish and unique timepiece that maintains a tradition of quality.
Grand Seiko SBGC253 Spring Drive Chronograph GMT
Brand: Grand Seiko
Model: Spring Drive Chronograph GMT
Reference: ref.SBGC253
Movement: Calibre 9R86, in-house Spring-Drive hybrid technology
Diameter: 44.5mm
Dial: Textured ivory-white dial
Price: AUD$17,950
