Grand Seiko

Grand Seiko was launched in 1960 with the determination to create watches of high precision and quality that could compete on the world stage. The first Grand Seiko used Caliber 3180, with mechanisms including a large balance wheel and fine-tuning regulation to achieve high accuracy. In 1966, Grand Seiko established its own standards for mechanical watches that surpassed the globally accepted chronometer standard. At the 1967 Neuchâtel Observatory Competition, Daini Seikosha placed 2nd and Suwa Seikosha placed 3rd. In 1968, at the Geneva Observatory Competition, Suwa Seikosha took 4th through 10th place, the highest ranking for mechanical wristwatch movements. The 44GS in 1967 established the Grand Seiko Style design language. The 61GS in 1968 was Japan's first automatic 10-beat Hi-Beat movement. In 1969, V.F.A. models achieved ±1 minute per month accuracy. After reduced focus during the quartz era, Grand Seiko was revitalized in 1998 with a new 9S mechanical caliber. Spring Drive technology became a Grand Seiko-exclusive movement in 2004. In 2017, Grand Seiko became an independent global luxury watch brand, removing 'Seiko' from its dials.