In praise of shadows

In Japan, the widespread use of shadow in all forms of art, from folding screens to representational painting, is clear evidence of the appreciation that the Japanese have for the nuances of light and dark. This is perhaps one reason for the long tradition of lacquerware in Japan. The beauty of the lacquer is brought out by the shadow and the subtle variations of light and shadow reveal the depth of its black gloss. When light hits the lacquer, other hidden colors appear. The delicate hand-painted maki-e on the hour marks of SBGW262 serve perfectly to prove the point.

SBGW262J

SBGW262

Elegance Collection

USD 30,000.00

  • Available at the Grand Seiko Boutiques and Grand Seiko Salons

Features

Elegance Collection Urushi dial model

The dial showcases a form of Japanese craftsmanship, Urushi lacquer. The dial is made from long lasting Urushi that comes from trees grown in and around the town of Joboji that lies under Mt. Iwate, the mountain that dominates the skyline above the Shizukuishi Watch Studio. The black dial uses the lacquer mixed with iron to give it its distinctive deep jet black color.
High-legibility index decorated with a raised maki-e technique by the master of Kaga Maki-e Urushi, Isshu Tamura. The combined grace of the brush strokes of the Arabic numerals and the tension expressed by the markers emphasize the beauty and grace of the dial even more.
Only Joboji lacquer from Iwate Prefecture, the birthplace of the 9S Mechanical movements, is used. Domestic lacquer accounts for only a very small percentage of the lacquer used in Japan. Its handling is very difficult compared to foreign varieties, but it brings out deep black colors.
The combination of the dome-shaped dual-curved glass and curved dial gives a gentle feeling, while at the same time producing a strong sense of depth. This displays an expression unique to a mechanical model.

Specifications

Exterior
Exterior: 18k yellow gold
Case back: See-through & Screw case back
Glass Material: Dual-curved sapphire crystal
Glass Coating: Anti-reflective coating on inner surface
Case size: Diameter 39.0mm Lug-to-lug 44.0mm Thickness 11.6mm
Band width: 19mm
Band Material: Crocodile leather
Movement
Caliber no.: 9S64 Instructions
Movement Type: Manual winding
Power reserve: Approx. 72 hours(3 days)
Mean daily rate: +5 to -3 seconds per day
  • Mean daily rate is a mean value of daily rates in a condition where the movement before assembly in a case is measured in six positions in a fixed manner under artificially controlled environment for 12 days.
Normal usage accuracy: +10 to -1 seconds per day
Functions
Water resistance: Splash Resistant
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Other details / Features:
  • 24 jewels