At the heart of Grand Seiko is an intriguing and understated narrative of Japanese heritage and aesthetics. The legendary poet Jun’ichiro Tanizaki once described beauty not in the object, rather the degree of lightness, darkness and shadow it protrudes. I believe this literature in 1933 still applies to Grand Seiko and its counterparts ie. Kurono by Hajime Asaoka, N.Hida by Naoya Hida & Kikuchi Nakagawa.

There is a singular and subtle sensitivity that resonates across all these creations, all from a single nation. Rather than describing Grand Seiko as a watch manufacturer, I tend to think of them as an extension of Japanese tradition and innovation.

The SBGM221 is no exception to its philosophy with Zaratsu finish directly derived from sword-making tradition towards the sweeping hands. The finishing results in significant glare yet accurately mirroring light and shade - a double edged condition which retracts light towards the specific dial. The dial is perhaps derived from the traditional paper screens ‘Shoji’ which absorbs light and radiates throughout its surface. It is no wonder the simplified model SBGW231 is chosen by passed prime minister Shinzo Abe as his personal watch during service.