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Grand Seiko Titanium “Striped” SBGA347

Grand Seiko Titanium “Striped” SBGA347

£2,250.00 GBP
£2,250.00 GBP
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References:

Model: Grand Seiko Titanium “Striped” SBGA347 / 9R65-0CJ0

Year: August 2018

Features:

The Origin. Discontinued a few years ago and only released in Japan, the Titanium SBGA347 was one of Grand Seiko’s first independent releases. Prior to 2017, Grand Seikos were typically double-branded, with Seiko sitting at the top of the dial and Grand Seiko at the bottom. Since being pushed out of the nest, Grand Seiko hasn’t looked back, but it’s nice that we can look back and appreciate the models that started it all.

The Design. Much to the disappointment of some collectors, Grand Seiko typically avoids luminous hands and markers. I don’t mind my watch’s inability to tell the time at night, especially when the lumeless Grand Seikos in question are often very dressy. Released in 2017, the titanium SBGA347 breaks the mould by blending a dressy style with a sporty aesthetic, and I think it pulls it off.

The Lume. Is the lume going to impress diehard glow-in-the-dark enthusiasts? Absolutely not. The lume is minimal but deliberate. For me, it’s part of the balance - if any of the other indices were lumed, we’d be boldly stepping into tool or sports watch territory. But there’s something undeniably satisfying about seeing stereotypical Grand Seiko indices radiating light onto the dial. 

The Dial. The dial is the second quirk of this watch. By now, Grand Seiko has presumably shown you nearly every pattern imaginable, along with several you couldn’t have previously imagined - but have you seen a GS pinstriped dial? Rolex calls it a Tapestry dial, while Omega’s vertically striped Aqua Terra dials are called Teak dials. And Grand Seiko? They simply refer to it “vertical stripes”. The unusual dial pattern is the counterbalance in an intricate design act. If we see the lume as nudging the watch towards sporty, then the eye-catching decorative nature of the striped dial pulls it back the other way.

The Finish. Are you willing to join me in accepting that dauphine hands are merely an opportunity for Grand Seiko to show off? Take a moment to admire not only how perfectly mirrored the top of the minute hand is, but also how impossibly crisp the angles are - made even more special when you know it’s all achieved through hand-lathing and hand-polishing.

The Hardware. The Case and Bracelet are solid titanium, and feature a mix of expertly applied brushing and polishing. All hand-finished to perfection. 

Specifications: 

Condition: In great condition overall. No marks of any noticeably significance. Box and papers, and I’ve added a GS9 Club cleaning cloth and brush!

Scope: Full box and papers. 

Movement: 9R65 Spring Drive, 72 Hour Power Reserve, 30 Jewels

Dimensions:

  • Case Width: 40.0mm
  • Case Thickness: 12.0mm
  • Bracelet: Fits up to a 7.4 inch wrist
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FAQs

Do you ship globally?

Absolutely - our watches are regularly shipped all over the world. Shipping typically takes:

  • 4-9 business days to reach North America
  • 4-12 business days to reach Europe
  • 4-12 business days to reach Asia and Oceania.

All of our packages are securely shipped, fully insured, and trackable door-to-door.

Do I have to pay customs or taxes?

It depends on so many factors, including but not limited to; the cost of the watch, the type of watch you've bought (vintage, new, or modified), and the import and tax laws of your country. If you're unsure we recommend checking the import laws that relate to your country before ordering.

Are your watches water resistant?

All of our watch mods are tested by our own pressure depth testing equipment, and are guaranteed to resistant water up to 50m of depth. Seiko Originals have varied levels of depth resistance, which will be stated in the description of each watch.

Can I modify an existing design?

We welcome all ideas! Get in touch via the Contact Us page and we can let you know the possibility and cost of any potential alterations.

What is your returns policy?

Due to the hand-made nature of the Seiko Mods, we offer a 7 day returns period after the watch has been received. The returner must bear the cost of the returns, and the watch must be returned in the same condition as it arrived. We do not offer returns on any bespoke or custom-made watches.

Due to the vintage nature of the Seiko Originals, returns are considered on a case-by-case basis, as vintage items typically have a no returns policy.

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