This watch means a lot to me! It's a new step in my collection. I wanted a beautiful, well-made watch that would accompany me in many moments and that would mark memories, like the birth of my daughter.
This watch is less demonstrative than others in my collection. I could have taken a spring drive or a hi-beat from Grand Seiko, a more worked dial or special metals. But at the end of the equation, this was the most obvious: 37mm, pure and balanced case, impeccable finishes and especially this play of light between the dial and indexes/hands. On the wrist, this watch appears like a retouched photo, as if the contrast had been increased a little too much to be realistic. The zaratsu polishing, the sky dial, almost gray, play with the light, and it is as if the coating of the dial and the 12 mirrors were arguing over which would be most enhanced by the slightest ray of light.
Inevitably very discreet, it is a great satisfaction for me to wear a watch that no one calculates, of which I am the only one to fully enjoy the subtlety. It is for me a new discovery of luxury: to take the watch that we like, regardless of the price and the hype. I was ready to take a more technical, advanced watch... but it seemed to me the most accomplished, in a disconcerting simplicity of which Grand Seiko sometimes has the secret.

Kishun: The Spring Sky

A cold, sad watch hungry for information since it only gives the time, and even then, only if you make the effort to wind it at least every two days, otherwise it will run out of steam and stop. 19mm strap, not at all practical to change it… And then one day you put it on your wrist. And the magic happens. Silver dial playing with the light, transparent back that lets you see the small caliber without pretensions but home made in Glashutte, it sits very well on the wrist and is both dressed and slender. Very refined, it is simple without being simplistic, chic without being shocking, it comes back to the essentials of what I expect from a watch, the little grain of madness or warmth less perhaps…

German rigor

This watch is really the one that gave me the passion I have today. It was the first time I really admired something in a display case. I found the shape so original, linked to aeronautics which particularly touches me. The contrast of white on black, the industrial aspect with its brushed case and screws, and its complications which are rather rare! A power reserve, and a large date, which are probably the most useful complications in all of watchmaking. It's quite pragmatic... I bought it for my 25th birthday with the few savings I had put aside. It's clear that when I look at it, I think back to that moment and all the good occasions when I had the pleasure of wearing it. Today it is a little bigger than my current standards with its 42 mm, but it is my tool watch, and by far the watch that gets the most attention.

From the cockpit to the wrist

This watch was found by chance during my summer vacation in Bilbao in the Swatch store. They had received the watches the same day for the first time, and I arrived like a flower first at the store. I was able to choose this Jupiter model, which makes me think of the ultraman, of course. But the case makes me think of a clay pottery. It makes it quite graphic and its matte color contributes a lot to it. It accompanies me in casual wear and goes with many bracelets. You shouldn't expect too much from it either, it will quickly suffer the ravages of time if I don't take care of it. But a good well-made kebab is good from time to time, we don't have to go to the Ritz every lunchtime!

Pop culture!

The Omega is the reissue of a 1963 model, the CK2998, renamed the FOIS (first Omega in space), because it was the first watch to accompany Wally Schirra in the 1960s in the sidereal void for the Sigma 7 mission. Hand-wound, it is distinguished from the classic Professional by a symmetrical case, without the pusher guards, by the Alpha hands (YC small seconds) and sapphire crystal. Since its release in 2012, it has long been considered a "small" Speedmaster/Reduced - even though its bezel is identical to a Speed Pro, and its diameter is 0.3mm closer to that of a current Daytona. The end of production 2 years ago and the release of the Ed White 321, its rich relative with a fairly similar design, have increased its rating for 2 years. It is chic, simple and refined, with impeccable and elegant finishes. A manual chronograph exemplary of comfort, without any other complication, with a clear "click" of the crown when winding, very pleasant and well notched. The pushers are soft and precise, the flexibility of the Lemania 1861. Versatile, it will go on many bracelets, my preference being for vintage and patinated brown, dark, seamless leathers with a vintage Omega pin buckle. Jaguar type E atmosphere, soft and refined, warm and hushed curves...

The refined adventurer

The Zenith is the reissue of the world's first automatic chronograph, released in 69, under the El Primero caliber. The reissue is very faithful to the original model, except for the logo, glass and sapphire caseback. On paper, it has a small diameter of 37mm, but its barrel shape, its massive horns, the sunray brushed case and the contrast of its panda dial give it an undeniable presence on the wrist, incomparable with any other round watch of the same diameter. Its characteristic detail is its ladder bracelet, atypical and divisive. Very comfortable in summer, it gives the watch an "integrated bracelet" style whose main flaw is the clasp which may seem cheap (folded sheet metal) but does the job, and is faithful to the model of 50 years ago. It is complete and complex, automatic and with date, its rougher machining edges, its square lollipop red second hand, and its alternation of subtle polished and brushed give the impression of a firmer and more mechanical handling, less warm and more technical. The seconds hand slides at 10Hz, activated by a stiffer pusher via its blued column wheel, the ticking of the el primero being sharper and faster. Very comfortable on leather, I like it on a black perforated rally strap, like its rival of the time: the Monaco from Heuer. I found a beautiful Zenith folding clasp to highlight it. On steel, it will immediately be more sport chic, without being consensual. Very unphotogenic in my opinion, it deserves a try-on out of curiosity. It is, in my opinion, a unique experience and emotion, very 70's and very fresh at the same time. In the shadow of the A386, it is more unique: it is a little-known (but emblematic) model from a little-known (but emblematic) house. Mustang atmosphere: a cool spirit, a special aura enhanced by a legendary engine….

The cool attitude

The story of Grand Seiko is closely linked to that of <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/seiko">Seiko</a>, the famous Japanese watch brand. However, Grand Seiko has a distinct identity as Seiko's premium division, focusing on watchmaking excellence, precision and refined aesthetics. Since its beginnings, Grand Seiko has strived to compete with the best Swiss watch brands, embodying Japanese know-how and developing its own vision of luxury watchmaking.
<h2 dir="ltr">History of Grand Seiko</h2>
The story of Grand Seiko dates back to the late 1950s, when <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/seiko">Seiko</a> decided to create a line of high-end watches to compete with renowned Swiss brands. The goal was to design and manufacture watches that met the highest standards of precision, durability and finish.
In 1960, Grand Seiko was officially launched, with the introduction of the Grand Seiko "First" model. This watch was equipped with a manual mechanical movement and was distinguished by its exceptional precision and readability. The dial features a distinctive logo, &ldquo;GS&rdquo;, which will become emblematic of the brand. The first Grand Seiko models were received with praise, not only in Japan, but also abroad. The watches were particularly valued for their unparalleled precision, reliability and clean aesthetic. Grand Seiko quickly gained a reputation for watchmaking excellence, rivaling established Swiss brands.
Over the decades, Grand Seiko has continued to innovate and improve its watches. The brand introduced high-precision quartz movements in the 1970s, which were considered the most precise in the world at the time. However, Grand Seiko has always maintained its commitment to mechanical movements, developing sophisticated calibers with complications such as chronographs, minute repeaters and tourbillons.
In the 1990s, Grand Seiko faced challenges due to the growing popularity of quartz watches and the decline of interest in mechanical watches. However, the brand has continued to produce high quality watches with meticulous attention to detail and precision, cementing its reputation for watchmaking excellence.&nbsp;At the turn of the 21st century, Grand Seiko experienced a renaissance. The brand was reintroduced to the international market, with particular attention given to the United States and Europe. Grand Seiko watches were now presented as luxury products, with distinctive designs and high-end finishes.
The Grand Seiko line has also diversified with the introduction of collections such as the Grand Seiko Heritage, Grand Seiko Elegance, Grand Seiko Sport and Grand Seiko Nature of Time. Each collection offers a diversity of styles and features to meet the tastes and needs of watch enthusiasts around the world.
Over the past few years, Grand Seiko has consolidated its position as an internationally recognized luxury watch brand. Grand Seiko watches are made at the Shinshu Studio factory, located in the mountains of Japan, where master craftsmen are committed to creating watches of exceptional quality. Each watch is assembled by hand and undergoes careful checks to guarantee its precision and reliability.
The constant pursuit of watchmaking perfection is a key characteristic of Grand Seiko. The brand has developed innovative technologies, such as Grand Seiko's alloy spring movement and Zaratsu polishing, which gives the cases an impeccable mirror-polished finish. These advances demonstrate the brand's commitment to innovation and superior quality.
Grand Seiko has also been recognized for its distinctive design, combining elegance and functionality. Watches often feature sleek dials with precise indexes and hands, providing exceptional readability. The cases are designed with balanced lines and highly polished finishes, adding a touch of sophistication to each model.
The Grand Seiko watch has become a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship and watchmaking excellence. The brand is proud of its motto "The Nature of Time", which reflects the deep connection between nature, time and the creation of each watch. This philosophy is reflected in dials inspired by nature, such as the Mount Iwate motif or the dials of the "Snowflake" series, which recall the beauty and purity of Japanese landscapes.
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a Grand Seiko watch cost?</h2>
Prices for new Grand Seikos change regularly and vary depending on the model. Most cost between $7,000 and $9,000 depending on the models and finishes. A Grand Seiko Spring Drive begins at $5,000, while a Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon (limited to 20 pieces) costs no less than $370,000. The second-hand market is also an opportunity to look at to buy a less expensive Grand Seiko.
<h2 dir="ltr">Grand Seiko: The discretion of luxury Japanese watchmaking</h2>
In summary, the story of Grand Seiko is that of a Japanese watch brand which has established itself as a major player in the world of luxury watchmaking. With its commitment to watchmaking excellence, unparalleled precision and refined aesthetics, Grand Seiko has captivated watch enthusiasts around the world.
To choose the Grand Seiko model that best suits you, the Dialicious owners&rsquo; reviews are a valuable resource for evaluating different models through real customer experience. Check out the <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_luxury_watch_brands">Ranking of the best Luxury watch brands</a>, including Grand Seiko.
(Updated January 2024)

After the (very) conclusive experiences of 2 quartz models of GS, I was looking for a mechanical watch, or one equipped with the Spring Drive movement, so I was primarily looking at the omiwatari SD model and this SBGW 231 with manual winding. Both have a stripped-down dial and no date window. I was able to compare them: if the dial of the omiwatari with the hand that slides on the snow is superb, on my wrist, there was no comparison... Despite its larger LtL, the SBGW 231 fitted perfectly on my wrist thanks to its delicate lugs. I won't dwell on the manufacturing quality specific to GS but on the obviousness that emerges from this watch: as soon as the bracelet was closed, I said to myself:
"... , class in Las Vegas" 
A very simple dial but in a subtle cream, no indication other than Grand Seiko with the GS overhanging, indexes and hands without fuss but which play with the light like I had never seen, a domed sapphire crystal just the right amount... I changed the bracelet right away because I don't like black bracelets, and to contrast with this perfect minimalism, I think it needed a little fantasy and texture on the bracelet side. Note that GS changed the reference to adapt its steel bracelets.
There you go, now I'm looking for a Spring Drive model, but I think I've found it...

Just classy

La marque SYE [Start Your Engine] a &eacute;t&eacute; cr&eacute;&eacute;e en 2020 par Arnaud Pezeron &agrave; c&ocirc;t&eacute; de Paris en France. La marque inaugure le Sport Tailoring au poignet. Elle propose des montres sport-chic de caract&egrave;re, fiables, ludiques et abordables inspir&eacute;es de l'univers de la m&eacute;canique auto-moto. La gamme comprend deux mod&egrave;les distincts, la <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/sye/mot1on_automatic_24">SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24 </a>et la <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/sye/mot1on_chronograph">SYE MOT1ON Chronograph</a>.
Cette marque embarque une innovation sur le changement du bracelet disponible en acier ou en cuir. La montre n'offre aucun espace entre le bracelet et la boite d&ucirc; &agrave; l&rsquo;absence de cornes, ce qui am&eacute;liore son confort et sa portabilit&eacute;.
<h2 class="p1">Combien co&ucirc;te une montre&nbsp;SYE&nbsp;?</h2>
La gamme SYE comporte deux mod&egrave;les disponibles sur le site de la marque : La SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24 est propos&eacute;e &agrave; partir de 750&euro;. La SYE MOT1ON Chronograph est propos&eacute;e &agrave; partir de 599 &euro;.
SYE est ind&eacute;pendante et produit plusieurs centaines montres par an tous mod&egrave;les confondus. Pour choisir une SYE qui vous correspond le mieux, les avis clients Dialicious sont une pr&eacute;cieuse ressource pour &eacute;valuer chacun des diff&eacute;rents mod&egrave;les &agrave; travers l'exp&eacute;rience r&eacute;elle des clients.
Consultez le <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_francaises">Classement des meilleures marques de montres fran&ccedil;aises</a> dont SYE fait partie.
(Mise &agrave; jour Novembre 2023)

The brand SYE [Start Your Engine] was created in 2020 by Arnaud Pezeron near Paris in France. The brand is introducing Sport Tailoring on the wrist. It offers sporty-chic watches with character, reliability, fun and affordability inspired by the world of car and motorcycle mechanics. The range includes two distinct models, the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/sye/mot1on_automatic_24"> SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24</a> and the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/sye/mot1on_chronograph"> SYE MOT1ON Chronograph</a>.
This brand has an innovation in changing the bracelet available in steel or leather. The watch offers no space between the bracelet and the case due to the absence of lugs, which improves its comfort and portability.
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a SYE watch cost?</h2>
The SYE range includes two models available on the brand's website: The SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24 is offered from &euro; 750. The SYE MOT1ON Chronograph is offered from &euro; 599.
SYE is independent and produces several hundred watches per year, all models combined. To choose an SYE that best suits you, the Dialicious owners' reviews are a valuable resource for evaluating each of the different models through real customer experience.
Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_french_watch_brands">Ranking of the best French watch brands</a>, including SYE.
(Updated November 2023)

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