Grand Seiko SBGW033 Lotus Road Trip

cazalea · 2020-12-04T12:04:44Z

Join cazalea on a road trip with his Grand Seiko SBGW033 and a Lotus, featuring scenic photos and personal stories.

WPS member · Seiko forum

6 replies1641 views21 photos

Cazalea shares a delightful narrative of a road trip with a friend, showcasing his Grand Seiko SBGW033 amidst scenic drives and personal anecdotes. This post beautifully blends the passion for horology with the joy of everyday adventures, demonstrating how a cherished timepiece accompanies life's memorable moments.

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Guys, I must apologize for a break in our rhythm. Today I took my friend John for his first ride in a Lotus and it turned out to be his first time in a convertible. He's 65! Of course I can solve both those deficiencies.

Yesterday I washed the wheels, changed the oil, drained flushed and refilled the cooling system, and checked the tire pressures. No holding back Friday morning!

I did manage to leave the house at the usual time, under the same moon, with an SBGW033 on my wrist. Only instead of heading to the trail with my wife, I was going much farther today.

I walked all the way out to the driveway. Where the car was waiting; of course the top was down. What you can't see is the 45º F air and you can't see the wind chill factor. I have on two Rohan layers, a yak wool sweater, and a Columbia Titanium Jacket liner. And a Seattle Yacht club sailing jacket over the top.

I waddled like the Michelin Man into the donut shop and got two apple fritters. Mine was fantastic! I assume John's was also (didn't bother to ask)

First break stop at 3000 ft elevation (to unwrap the fritters and start chomping)

Second break at 5000 feet (to take a pee)

If my hand looks dry it's because today we have 15% relative humidity. Great fire danger! Keep fingers crossed, pray we get through this dry windy weekend intact.

Selfie with Lotus

Third stop at 6500 ft, 40 mph winds, colder than ever ... maybe around freezing. My GS hat blew off after the photo and flew about 100 feet across the road.

Note to self: Wash the car before a photo session!

As they say, "Not a cloud in the sky" also known as typical winter day in San Diego, with Arizona in the distance.

Now looking westward. Moon is still visible in the sky, even in these iPhone photos. I took the big camera but didn't use it.

Still looking west towards Hawaii and Japan. You can see the Pacific Ocean out there, about 25 miles away.

Final break stop at Dishwasher Pond, in Tierrasanta area of San Diego.

We took off about 3 layers each and got in some walking.

Here's the water:

Home by 11 am, 4 hours and 162 social distanced miles. Watch still ticking.

Cazalea

About the Grand Seiko Ref. SBGW033

The Grand Seiko SBGW033 is a limited edition model released to commemorate the 130th anniversary of Seiko's founding. It is a re-creation of the original Grand Seiko from 1960, capturing the aesthetic and proportions of that seminal timepiece. This reference is distinguished by its faithful adherence to the design principles of the first Grand Seiko, offering a direct link to the brand's heritage of precision and craftsmanship. It represents a significant piece for collectors interested in the foundational designs of Grand Seiko.

The watch features a stainless steel case, carefully polished to a high standard, measuring 37.6mm in diameter. It houses the manual-winding Caliber 9S64, known for its stable performance and a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. The dial is protected by a box-shaped sapphire crystal, which enhances the vintage appeal while providing modern scratch resistance. The solid case back further emphasizes its classic design.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate historical re-creations and the understated elegance of early Grand Seiko designs. Its limited production run makes it a sought-after piece within the collector community. The SBGW033 stands as a testament to Grand Seiko's enduring design language and its commitment to mechanical watchmaking, offering a blend of historical significance and contemporary quality.

Specifications

Caliber: 9S64

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 37.6mm

Dial: Ivory

Water Resist.: 3 bar

Crystal: Box-shaped sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The contributor expressed appreciation for the pictures and the Lotus Elan, noting its current high value compared to the 80s.
Cazalea shared an additional photo of another Lotus, indicating his collection of the marque.
A fellow enthusiast praised the spirit of driving a convertible with the top down, regardless of weather conditions.
The Grand Seiko SBGW033 was highlighted as an 'almost perfect' and beloved model.

The Discussion

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Dec 4, 2020

great seiko again sir!

nasseriq

Dec 4, 2020

Great pictures and a lovely Elan. I once came close to owning a Sprint in the 80’s. They were unwanted at that point. Now they are stratospheric!

cazalea

Dec 4, 2020

I have one of those too

Watchlover78

Dec 4, 2020