Grand Seiko 'Mt. Iwate' SBGJ235
SBGJ235 features Grand Seiko's modern 44GS design, a contemporary take on a watch that first launched in 1967 and formed the cornerstone of the Grand Seiko Style. The modern interpretation of the 44GS is one of Grand Seiko's best known designs, and it remains a pillar of the brand's catalog today.
The dynamic blue dial features Grand Seiko's iconic "Mt. Iwate" texture, a pattern inspired by the many-ridged contours of Mt. Iwate, which is visible through the windows of Studio Shizukuishi where Grand Seiko mechanical watches are made. The dial expresses the beauty of the winter mountain scenery emerging faintly through moonlight reflected on snow. Multi-faceted hands and hour indexes give the dial depth and dimensionality and are emblematic of Grand Seiko design.
Powering the watch is the Hi-Beat Caliber 9S86, which runs at 36,000 bph, delivers an accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds a day, and offers 55 hours of power reserve. A GMT function allows the user to track an additional time zone, making SBGJ235 an excellent timepiece for frequent travelers.
SBGJ235 VS. SBGJ231
You might point out the service paperwork reference number says "SBGJ231". That is because the 235 and 231 are the same watch. Serial numbers match on all three warranty papers, watch, and service papers. The SBGJ231 was orignally released as a Japanese exclusive market watch. With it's success they released it in US later. The difference you can find between the two is the later updates the branding to remove the traditional Seiko logo on the caseback paint.
Information:
Pre-Owned: Grand Seiko SBGJ235
Reference: SBGJ235
MSRP: $6300
Dated: 2021
Strap: Stainless Steel Bracelet
Case Size: 40mm x 14mm Thickness x 46.2mm Lug to Lug
Lug Width: 19mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel
Movement: 9S86 - Automatic - Serviced by Grand Seiko in 2023
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, GMT, and Date
Box and Papers: Both box and papers
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.5”
Condition:
Case has very minimal micro wear on polished lugs. The bracelet has light normal wear as well. Dial, hands, and crystal are in perfect shape. Slightest mark on bezel in the right light. Watch was serviced by Grand Seiko in 2023.
About Grand Seiko
Grand Seiko emerged in 1960 as a high-end watch line from Seiko, aiming to challenge Swiss dominance in luxury watchmaking. The brand quickly established itself with Japan's first chronometer-grade watch and later gained renown for its innovative Spring Drive technology, which combines the best of automatic and quartz movements. In 2017, Grand Seiko became an independent entity, solidifying its position in the luxury watch market.
The brand's design philosophy, known as the "Grammar of Design," was established in 1967 with the Grand Seiko 44GS. This aesthetic approach emphasizes legibility, refined appearances, and distinctive features like multi-faceted markers and hands, a half-recessed crown, and the meticulous Zaratsu polishing technique. Grand Seiko continues to push boundaries in watchmaking, as evidenced by recent innovations like the "Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon," while maintaining its commitment to precision engineering and unique design language.
