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Grand Seiko Titanium “Striped” SBGA347

Grand Seiko Titanium “Striped” SBGA347

£2,200.00 GBP
£2,200.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
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References:

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

Year: October 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 significance. 

Scope: Box, no 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 7.5 inch wrist
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FAQs

Are your watches authentic?

Everything we sell is 100% authentic.

All of our watches are inspected and verified for authenticity - both inside and out. We have over 15 years of sourcing and collecting rare watches in Japan, which is often considered to be one of the best markets for authentic and fully original vintage watches.

Do you ship globally?

We are based in Japan and regularly ship all over the world. We typically use FedEx and it takes:

  • 3-7 business days to reach North America
  • 3-7 business days to reach Europe
  • 3-7 business days to reach Asia and Oceania.

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

What condition are your watches?

Due to the vintage and neo-vintage nature of the watches we typically sell, the condition varies from watch to watch. However, our photos are high resolution and our descriptions are accurate. You can buy with confidence knowing there won't be any nasty surprises.

If the condition of a watch is ever misrepresented, we would offer a full refund.

Are all of your watches serviced?

Most but not all of our watches are serviced. The "Condition" section of each watch will confirm if the watch has been serviced.

All of our watches are tested by an independent watchmaker - if a service is needed, the watch will be serviced. If a service hasn't been conducted, it's because the watch itself is too new to need a service, or there is evidence of a recent service.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payment by all major Credit Cards and Wise.com

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 or new), and the import 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?

Our serviced watches are typically tested to their original water resistant specifications, but we would never recommend pushing vintage or neo-vintage watches to their depth limits.

What is your returns policy?

Due to the vintage and neo-vintage nature of most of our watches, we do not offer returns under normal circumstances. All sales should be considered final.

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