My recent journey to Japan with Grand Seiko was nothing short of extraordinary.
It was my first time experiencing this beautiful country, and sharing it with one of my favorite watch brands made it truly unforgettable.
I had always known about the exclusive timepiece available only at Studio Shizukuishi, but purchasing the Grand Seiko SBGH283 wasn’t on my radar until the moment struck me—it felt right to commemorate such an incredible trip with this remarkable watch.
Reflections After the Trip
Now, the SBGH283 is part of my collection.
The photos you see here were snapped right after I returned from an adventurous week in Aruba.
I wore the watch constantly, even during ocean dips, which may explain the minor smudges on its surface.
This spontaneous photo shoot wasn’t in ideal lighting, but it captures the essence of my daily life with this timepiece.
Examining the Case Design
The Grand Seiko SBGH283 is now my third Grand Seiko and brings a host of firsts to my array.
It’s my first stainless steel piece, diverging from my existing hi-intensity titanium collection.
Moreover, it marks my debut in owning a fully mechanical 9S model and, interestingly, my first Grand Seiko featuring the renowned 44GS case design.
The 44GS is celebrated for its unique silhouette, marked by wide lugs that showcase Grand Seiko’s signature distortion-free Zaratsu polish.
This exquisite finish creates dynamic light reflections that make the watch truly stand out.
When viewed directly, the case can appear almost black due to its mirror-polished surface, showcasing the unparalleled value Grand Seiko offers at this price point.
Despite my initial worries about scratches, I’m thrilled to say that after a week of exposure to sunscreen, sand, and seawater in Aruba, the watch remains in immaculate condition.
Transitioning from the lightweight feel of titanium to solid stainless steel has brought a luxurious weight that feels satisfying on the wrist, with dimensions of 40mm in diameter, 13.3mm in thickness, and a lug-to-lug distance of 46.2mm.
Delving into the Dial
As with many Grand Seiko dials, the SBGH283’s true charm is revealed only in person.
Capturing its color accurately in photographs is quite the challenge; depending on the lighting, it might look like a standard black lacquer dial.
In truth, it’s a deep forest green adorned with a vertical stripe motif that beautifully mirrors the lush landscape of Studio Shizukuishi.
This striped pattern evokes the wooden elements found in the studio, akin to the textured bridges within the movements.
The thoughtful design decision to use brushed facets for the hands and indices allows them to catch the light, offering a stunning contrast against the dark backdrop.
The central second hand, finished in a bright brass hue, further enhances the elegance of the piece.
Accompanying the watch is a five-piece link bracelet that skillfully combines brushed and polished elements, complete with polished shoulder bevels.
Notably, this stainless steel model features screws for securing the bracelet links—a change from the pin-and-collar system I found in my titanium pieces.
Interestingly, I noticed that my stainless steel bracelet includes one extra link compared to my titanium ones, a unique touch.
While some might wish for micro-adjustment options, I find the bracelet to be exceptionally comfortable, showcasing superb craftsmanship alongside a sleek clasp that fits securely after adjustments by the skilled artisans at Studio Shizukuishi.
The Heart of the timepiece
At the core of the SBGH283 lies Grand Seiko’s automatic hi-beat calibre 9S85 movement.
I had the rare opportunity to observe its elegant construction during my studio visit.
This movement features a robust 3/4 bridge plate adorned with ‘Tokyo stripes’.
A standout detail is the watch’s exclusive gold-toned ‘Shizukuishi Limited’ rotor, a mark of its distinctiveness.
While other models from the studio may feature similar rotors, the SBGH283 is solely available through this location—adding to its allure for visitors.
Transitioning from my experience with Spring Drive watches, I was eager to see how this fully mechanical model would perform, and I’m pleased to report an impressive accuracy of +2 seconds per day over the last month.
Upon returning from my trip, many friends and colleagues expressed curiosity about my feelings regarding the watch and whether I regretted the spontaneous decision to buy it.
I can say with absolute certainty—there are no regrets.
For me, the Grand Seiko SBGH283 is an exceptional, high-performing timepiece that serves as a joyful reminder of my unforgettable experience in Japan.
Logically, it also adds a new dimension to my Grand Seiko collection, given all the firsts associated with it.
So, if you find yourself at Studio Shizukuishi contemplating a purchase, I wholeheartedly recommend considering the SBGH283; it’s a worthy investment.
Grand Seiko SBGH283 ‘Shizukuishi Limited’: Availability and Pricing
Exclusively available at the Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi, the Grand Seiko SBGH283 ‘Shizukuishi Limited’ is priced at ¥792,000.
- Brand: Grand Seiko
- Model: SBGH283 ‘Shizukuishi Limited’
- Case Dimensions: 40mm (Diameter) x 13.3mm (Thickness) x 46.2mm (Lug-to-lug)
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 100m (screw-down crown)
- Dial: Dark Green with Vertical Stripe Motif
- Crystal: Sapphire Crystal and Exhibition Caseback
- Bracelet: Stainless Steel with Three-Fold Clasp
- Movement: In-House Automatic Caliber 9S85
- Power Reserve: 55 Hours
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date
- Availability: Exclusively at Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi
- Price: ¥792,000
Source: Timeandtidewatches