This year at Watches and Wonders 2024, Grand Seiko unveiled a new Hi-Beat 36000 GMT. True to Grand Seiko’s style, it comes with a backstory for its color scheme. Grand Seiko explains: In high mountain elevations, a phenomenon known as the “snowy valley” persists, where snow remains even during the summer season. The picturesque contrast between snow-capped peaks and verdant greenery in the summer mountainscape is reflected in the watch’s design: the dial’s silver-white color and the silver-white and green rotating bezel. While not every watch color needs a story, Grand Seiko always provides one, and the snow-white dial and green bezel truly complement each other here, drawing inspiration from nature. The new Grand Seiko SBGJ277 is powered by the 9S86, the same movement as last year’s 9S 25th-anniversary limited edition SBGJ275.
Sharing the same case as last year’s limited edition and being part of the sports collection, the case measures 44.2mm in diameter and 14.8mm thick, with a case length of 51mm. The lug width, which can be a concern for some, is 21mm. It comes with a stainless steel bracelet fitted with Grand Seiko’s standard three-fold clasp. A screw-down crown at 4 o’clock enhances water resistance to 200m. The dual-curve sapphire crystal not only protects but also ensures crystal-clear visibility of the striking dial. The 24-hour split-color sapphire bezel insert appears green and silvery-white, complementing the summertime theme. The bezel numbers are in contrasting colors for maximum visibility.
Speaking of the dial, the silver “snowy valley” dial is a standout feature. Seiko is known for its impressive dials, and this one is no exception. One particularly captivating aspect is the dual-tone 24-hour scale on the angled rehaut. Similar to the sapphire bezel, the rehaut features silvery-white numbers on the green upper half and green numbers on the silvery-white section. The 24-hour scale on the rehaut allows for a third timezone as well. Thanks to the 9S86 hi-beat movement, the hands glide elegantly across the dial and faceted hour markers. The green GMT hand complements the overall color theme. One noticeable feature is the 4 o’clock date window, which blends nicely with the dial.
Powering the SBGJ277 is the 9S86, which has been in use since 1998. This hi-beat automatic movement boasts a power reserve of 55 hours. Grand Seiko’s Hi-Beat 36000 movements beat at 10 beats per second and feature 37 jewels, ensuring accuracy within +5 to -3 seconds per day.
Grand Seiko consistently impresses with its dials, showcasing intricate textures and vibrant colors. I always anticipate an intriguing story behind their latest colorway choices. While the Grand Seiko SBGJ277 GMT with bezel may wear on the larger side due to its dimensions, it has been my favorite release from Grand Seiko in recent times. The silvery-white dial with contrasting green on the bezel and rehaut appeals to me. My only real gripe is the 4 o’clock date and 21mm lugs, one of which is divisive, the other of which is entirely inconvenient. The price for the new Grand Seiko SBGJ277 is $6,800 USD. For more information, please visit the Grand Seiko website.
