Grand Seiko’s passionate pursuit of accuracy has a long, distinguished history. In 1969, it released a watch that achieved ±1 minute per month—a groundbreaking feat for a mechanical movement of the era. Then, with the development of its Spring Drive movement, it released the caliber 9R65 in 2004, which achieves ±15 seconds a month.
Now, thanks to a brand new Spring Drive caliber called 9RB2, Grand Seiko can claim a movement at ±15 per year. The accomplishment is so significant that the watchmaker has given it new terminology: Ultra Fine Adjustment. According to its internal research—so pick up a grain of Hana Flake salt—that makes its new Spring Drive U.F.A. watch the most accurate mechanical timepiece on the market today.
How long that will stay true remains to be seen. In the meantime, Grand Seiko has released the SLBG001, a limited edition of just 80 pieces, powered by the movement. (Bonus: The mechanism is small enough that the case clocks in at a reasonable 37mm). If you miss out on this edition, fret not. There will also be a titanium model with the same movement that won’t have limited production.
Case Size: 37mm
Case Material: Platinum, titanium
Strap: Crocodile strap on platinum, titanium bracelet
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Price: $39,000 in platinum, $10,900 in steel
From the article by Paige Reddinger, Oren Hartov, Victoria Gomelsky, Carol Besler, Justin Fenner
