Snowflake and Skyflake Return in Grand Seiko’s New Ultra-Slim 33mm Releases

Driven by Caliber 9F51, these mark the thinnest 9F executions ever.

Grand Seiko

Grand Seiko has unveiled two new 33mm models in its Heritage Collection, the SBGX361 and SBGX359, both inspired by the winter scenery of Shinshu, Japan. These models showcase the brand's renowned Skyflake and Snowflake dials, influenced by the snow-laden Hotaka mountain region.

The Skyflake variant of the SBGX361 presents a subtle light-blue shade, reminiscent of glistening snow under a pristine winter sky. The SBGX359 features a Snowflake dial that emulates the rugged texture and pristine whiteness of the snow-laden Hotaka mountain range using a specialised silver-plating and clear coating process, complemented with a tempered blue steel seconds hand.

Grand Seiko

The core of both timepieces is the freshly engineered Calibre 9F51, marking the inaugural enhancement to the 9F quartz lineage in six years. The movement provides an accuracy of ±10 seconds annually, preserving key attributes like the Backlash Auto-Adjust Mechanism and Twin Pulse Control Motor, while featuring a more streamlined design that enables the smallest 9F-powered casing to date. Every movement is meticulously hand-assembled at the Shinshu Watch Studio, guaranteeing precision and artistry that embody Grand Seiko’s philosophy of the “Nature of Time.”

Both clocks are set to be released as continuous-production models commencing in April. The watches, featuring stainless steel cases and coordinating bracelets, will be sold at Grand Seiko Boutiques and select retail partners globally, priced at $3,200 USD.