By Jovan Krstevski
Seiko is popular for its fantastic diver’s watches from the iconic Seiko watches like the Turtle or Samurai including the very affordable ones. Seiko is simply unbeatable when it comes to its user base. However, most of the high-end diver’s watches are of Swiss caliber so what does Seiko has to say about this? Well, there is, of course, another Seiko branding called Grand Seiko watches. There’s a reason why they’re called Grand so read on to know more.
For the Baselworld 2017, Seiko introduces the Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 Professional 600m Diver’s in two versions, SBGH255 and SBGH257. They’re both of the luxurious end using high-quality materials such as titanium which are used mostly on high-end timepieces. Another interesting fact from the 2017 Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 Professional 600m Diver’s is that these watches cater to professional divers. Not all Grand Seiko watches particularly the reference SBGA029 are used for professional diving. The SBGA029 model is strictly used for recreational diving being powered by a Spring Drive movement that’s regulated by quartz. As for the new watches added in the Grand Seiko arsenal, well they pack enough water resistance to exceed the strict requirements of a true diver’s watch. Plus its high-beat mechanical movement with high-end pedigree truly sweeps the floor, unlike its predecessor.
SBGH257
The Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 Professional 600m Diver’s sports a 46.9 mm titanium case, a mean size for a diver’s watch. It looks so masculine featuring combined brushed and polished finishes. It also sports clean yet sharp edges that makes a unique styling, this is also known as the Zaratsu polishing technique used on many Seiko watches. Of course, both the SBGH255 / SBGH257 watches sport a very legible 60-minute bezel with black ceramic insert, a lifesaver during the dives. The crown follows Seiko diver’s mantra at 4 o’clock.
As for the dial, both versions of the Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 Professional 600m Diver’s sport antimagnetic properties. This is achieved by using iron dials which serves as an effective way to protect the movement from the effects of magnetism which affects the accuracy of the movement (an inaccurate reading during dives can be fatal). The dial (in blue and black distinction) sports a honeycomb styling reminiscent of a grilled interface. Technically this aids in equal light distribution making the dial very legible underwater. Plus the large applied indexes also greatly improves readability which is a requirement of a true diver’s watch. Furthermore, the SBGH257 has a deep Grand Seiko blue dial while the SBGH255 has a black dial with gold accents.
Powering the Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 Professional 600m Diver’s is Seiko’s best 9S hi-beat caliber. This automatic movement beats at 5Hz (36,000 vibrations per hour) which is technically oriented for greater precision. Its accuracy is ensured with –3 to +5 seconds intervals which is extremely difficult to attain. With 55 hours of power reserve, the 9S hi-beat caliber is simply tough to beat precisely for its excellent, efficient, and perfect caliber performance. The watch comes with standard closed caseback which is intended so as to provide 600 meters of water resistance.
SBGH255
Finally, the Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 Professional 600m Diver’s comes with different strap models for each version. The SBGH257 comes on either an extra-strength silicone strap in deep Grand Seiko blue matching the blue dial or a titanium bracelet. The SBGH255, on the other hand, features the same titanium bracelet. The SBGH257 version is limited to 500 pieces and is offered for 12,300 Euro. Meanwhile, SBGH255 joins the Grand Seiko collection with a price tag of 12,100 Euro. For more info, please visit seikowatches.com
