Review
Mahesh offers a 'novice's impressions' of his Grand Seiko SBGW031, providing a candid review after three months of ownership. His post delves into the watch's subtle charm, its ideal 36mm size for a dress watch, and the remarkable durability of its case finish. This personal account highlights the quiet appeal and robust quality that define many Grand Seiko manual-wind models.
I like to share with you all my thoughts about the Grand Seiko SBGW031, it is almost 3 months since I made an impulse buy...
Looking back I’ve no regrets and it takes my wrist on most day of the week.
My favorite character of this watch is its ability to stay so restrained on the wrist.
To precise what I really mean, the brand itself is not shouting out loud rather stays humble without inviting any attention to it!
@ 36 mm SS case ,
In this modern era, 36mm for a dress watch might feel small to many but believe me, it is perfect as it is and wears larger on the wrist.
The case is incredibly resistant to scratches and fingerprints (my Panerai is a scratch & smudge magnet). The case also holds on to its polish incredibly.
@ creamy-white dial with dauphine hands ,
It is just elegant and subtle. Would I prefer to change anything? YES of course…
1) Is it too much to ask if the dial has only ‘Grand Seiko’ below 12’O clock hour marker, would be better IMHO!
2) ‘Blue’ seconds hand would have been a cherry on top!
@movement ,
I’m still a greenhorn to comment on movements. As a user, all I can say is the 9S64 movement is always around +2/-0 sec (GS spec is +5/-3 sec per day).
Winding the watch itself is worth a life IMO; I couldn’t resist the childhood reminiscence of me looking at my dad winding his watch every day!
Impressions :
The design of the watch is neither trying to be a ‘minimalist’ nor striving for ‘perfection’ - rather IMHO it is built to serve the purpose.
Well crafted, so everything falls in the right place to create a sense of harmony among imbalances.
There are brands which can deliver better finish and performance, but what GS have managed is to deliver both with a compelling value for the wallet!
Thanks for your time & hope you enjoyed the read !
Pics might not be of good quality, my iP6 did its best 
Best,
mahesh.,
I have never had the opportunity to see this one live but would very much like to do so - it is quite a piece. A big fan of Grand Seikos and immediately attest to all you say. Here's my SBGH035 (with a blue seconds hand) saying hi
I love the dial texture of your GS...plus Hi-beat ! I'm sure you'll like SBGW031, when you see it on metal !!
They truly are wonderful watches, even with the earlier movement version mine have been very accurate. With and without bracelet, with and without blue second hand Cazalea
Thanks for your compliments on the SBGH035 - it really is a very nice watch, too.
mine's the early version where the wording 'Grand Seiko' is not printed. Unfortunately it does not have display back. Cheers !
Thanks for sharing the pics Cazalea ! I like the blue seconds hand - it just pops up on the dial ! Tell us, which movement is used in older version - it exactly looks alike ! any other differences between the new & the previous version ? Personally I prefer a leather strap on this than a metal. best, mahesh.,
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