Malaysia Watch Forum
Main Forums => General Discussion - Modern Watches => Topic started by: deriku on March 08, 2016, 01:27:14 PM
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Greetings to fellow WIS. Going by news articles and watch forum listings, Grand Seiko has been gaining traction in the international market recently. Having been fascinated by this brand, I am aware of the history and value proposition that GS offers.
However I still have a few lingering doubts to overcome before considering kopping one. First of course is how you get over the "It's only a Seiko" comments. Call me superficial but for that amount of money, there are quite a few Swiss options that can stand their own ground.
I also handled a GS GMT Hi-beat in person, but truth be told, despite all the hype on superior finishing, I wasn't extremely impressed (although that may be skewed due to the protective stickers still on the watch).
So GS owners, what made you take the plunge on your first GS? Have you had any second thoughts and resold the watch later on, and if so, why?
Also to non-GS owners, what's holding you back?
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GS superbly finish
every part is refine towards perfection
reliability
accuracy
champion!
love it...
now wish to add one more when they hv more models for 42mm
yes. i prefer a bigger watch
i sold some smaller sizes GS
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Greetings to fellow WIS. Going by news articles and watch forum listings, Grand Seiko has been gaining traction in the international market recently. Having been fascinated by this brand, I am aware of the history and value proposition that GS offers.
However I still have a few lingering doubts to overcome before considering kopping one. First of course is how you get over the "It's only a Seiko" comments. Call me superficial but for that amount of money, there are quite a few Swiss options that can stand their own ground.
I also handled a GS GMT Hi-beat in person, but truth be told, despite all the hype on superior finishing, I wasn't extremely impressed (although that may be skewed due to the protective stickers still on the watch).
So GS owners, what made you take the plunge on your first GS? Have you had any second thoughts and resold the watch later on, and if so, why?
Also to non-GS owners, what's holding you back?
I took the plunge because of the history, accuracy, craftsmanship and the fact that no one knows it's true value unless you know watches.
I was wearing it to work one day and a colleague of mine went ,"wow, how come your Seiko is so shiny?". I was happy because even a non-WIS appreciate the fact that it's a finely finished watch. When asked about the price, I just smiled and answered that it costs a tiny bit more than your average Seiko.
But I baby the watch too much. Just because it is more a work of art than it is a watch. It was far too to precious wear and it kinda defeats the purpose of having a watch in the first place. It's just me. Maybe other members may feel differently.
So after a two year ownership, I let the watch go with much sadness as it spent more time in the safe than it did on my wrist. I wear my other watches to hell and back and have no issues scratching them, but the GS...dunno leh. I would buy another GS in a heartbeat, but maybe I would get one that is used, so that I won't baby it too much. Maybe it's all in my mind. But then again, it's just me.
I still love everything about the watch. So good luck and wrist shots if you were to get one please.
Cheers
Patrick
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i've held one.. it does feel solid.. but i share your reservation.. it does make you feel shallow.. to spend that amount & have the feeling, 'is it still a seiko?'.. so i got a swiss watch instead.. i think GS is a watch for someone who's had it all & can say 'i've worn all & i think GS is as great a watch to any swiss watch i've had'
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(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seikos/20141222_221020_resize_zps249d01ff.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seikos/20141222_221020_resize_zps249d01ff.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seikos/20141222_221117_resize_zps417d4b90.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seikos/20141222_221117_resize_zps417d4b90.jpg.html)
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After reading all the positive reviews, I wanted a GS.
Despite the refinement, movement and workmanship, none of the models speak to me as I don't like silver / glossy dial and I think GS are generally a little thick as dress watch. Lastly, 10+++ is still a lot of money.
It all change when I saw this one. I can't recall the name - most GS goes by numbers and it is very hard to remember.
(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y405/roystock/D98EA745-CC55-4B76-8177-43D676216BAF_zpspx69js66.jpg) (http://s1273.photobucket.com/user/roystock/media/D98EA745-CC55-4B76-8177-43D676216BAF_zpspx69js66.jpg.html)
It was such a beauty I bought within a hour after seeing it for the first time. I did not regret for 1 sec and honestly, it's finishing put all the entry level JLC, IWC to shame.
I will add more, if I come across other models with similar characteristics - non glossy dial, thin case
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SBGA011 snow flake :D
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The selling price, cost of service and the non-availability of the piece near me. I can accept the "it's just a Seiko" comment but I cannot accept paying that much. The snowflake is still very much on my mind.
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I feel that the Grand Seiko is a watch that you'll have to purchase in order to appreciate it. Coz it does take a fair bit of time using a loupe to seriously caress every inch of its case and dial to be able to understand what the fuss is about. It'll be even better to have an equivalently priced Swiss watch at its side for ease of comparison.
Then..... It hits you. Why the hell did I pay the same amount for that Swiss watch and not the other way round.
However I've got to say this was my experience for watches priced within the 12k to 15k range.
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(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083048_resize_zps7ca1dd04.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083048_resize_zps7ca1dd04.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083083_resize_zpsbae25a7c.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083083_resize_zpsbae25a7c.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083082_resize_zpscb749477.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083082_resize_zpscb749477.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083033_resize_zpsc4598223.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGR083/GSSBGR083033_resize_zpsc4598223.jpg.html)
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For me, I was intrigued by the level of workmanship and detailing effort that was put into the watch (i'm a sucker for detail and quality) and one that can be had by a modest (comparatively) outlay.
After endless hours of browsing the forums and reading reviews I first took the plunge in a quartz SBGT035 back in 2015 (which I bought blind ;D). It didn't disappoint when it arrived. So much so that I've a developed a constant itch and went on to acquire another piece which is the SBGR051 early this year.... I've shifted the usual suspects of my Omegas and Tags that first gotten me into this hobby and I'm only left with my GSs' and not-so-grand Seiko. So there you go...
For me, brand recognition is secondary. The value, and the essense of watchmaking spirit from a respectable manufacture is what counts. The curious looks of non-WIS and questions to me like, "eh, why your Seiko so nice one ar?" is an added bonus!
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i've held one.. it does feel solid.. but i share your reservation.. it does make you feel shallow.. to spend that amount & have the feeling, 'is it still a seiko?'.. so i got a swiss watch instead.. i think GS is a watch for someone who's had it all & can say 'i've worn all & i think GS is as great a watch to any swiss watch i've had'
Yes I guess for people who have 'been there, done that', a GS would be a natural choice. Problem is there are too many nice watches out there so it's all about priorities.
After reading all the positive reviews, I wanted a GS.
Despite the refinement, movement and workmanship, none of the models speak to me as I don't like silver / glossy dial and I think GS are generally a little thick as dress watch. Lastly, 10+++ is still a lot of money.
It all change when I saw this one. I can't recall the name - most GS goes by numbers and it is very hard to remember.
It was such a beauty I bought within a hour after seeing it for the first time. I did not regret for 1 sec and honestly, it's finishing put all the entry level JLC, IWC to shame.
I will add more, if I come across other models with similar characteristics - non glossy dial, thin case
I like dials with a bit of texture too, the snow flake is nice. Thickness will always be an issue (?) as the 9S automative movement is pretty thick to start with. Unless go for Sping drive.
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a pure watch maker brand thats all :-*
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SBGA011 snow flake :D
Your photos make the watches look gorgeous as usual.
The selling price, cost of service and the non-availability of the piece near me. I can accept the "it's just a Seiko" comment but I cannot accept paying that much. The snowflake is still very much on my mind.
I was under the impression that service cost was on par if not cheaper than similar Swiss brands?
For me, I was intrigued by the level of workmanship and detailing effort that was put into the watch (i'm a sucker for detail and quality) and one that can be had by a modest (comparatively) outlay.
After endless hours of browsing the forums and reading reviews I first took the plunge in a quartz SBGT035 back in 2015 (which I bought blind ;D). It didn't disappoint when it arrived. So much so that I've a developed a constant itch and went on to acquire another piece which is the SBGR051 early this year.... I've shifted the usual suspects of my Omegas and Tags that first gotten me into this hobby and I'm only left with my GSs' and not-so-grand Seiko. So there you go...
For me, brand recognition is secondary. The value, and the essense of watchmaking spirit from a respectable manufacture is what counts. The curious looks of non-WIS and questions to me like, "eh, why your Seiko so nice one ar?" is an added bonus!
I wonder what's the reaction of normal people when you tell them your GS costs more than the Tag on their wrist :D
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I was under the impression that service cost was on par if not cheaper than similar Swiss brands?
It maybe so for the autos. Not too sure about the Spring Drives though. For me, I am only interested in the Snowflake which incorporates the Spring Drive movement. I guess I have to pay if I want to play.
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(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag111/Tsw80/20160309_134021_zpsflx5brz3.jpg)[/URL]
A picture is worth a thousand words.
The strap is a little undersized. :laugh:
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mikey is posting a lot of poison :D
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(http://i1036.photobucket.com/albums/a450/edajydayirfyreh/Mobile%20Uploads/9F1A0CCE-9201-4300-A69E-A908380C976A_zpsjwcpdbhl.jpg) (http://s1036.photobucket.com/user/edajydayirfyreh/media/Mobile%20Uploads/9F1A0CCE-9201-4300-A69E-A908380C976A_zpsjwcpdbhl.jpg.html)
i wear mine a lot. No regrets
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Got two GS beauties. Have to look at them in person to truly appreciate the quality and workmanship.
To me, watch collecting is a hobby. Never had any issue about what people think. What is important is what you think about it.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JlpIFyJOI9E/Vqsq469nGII/AAAAAAAA85k/qNhfKMZuqIc/s800/IMG_7123.JPG)
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LvLroZGEaKk/VRIDbynPu3I/AAAAAAAA2FA/qy6vytdE_U0/s800/IMG_2762.JPG)
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Can't agree more.
a pure watch maker brand thats all :-*
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mikey is posting a lot of poison :D
Yes indeed. What an obsession
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(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/20141020_235442_resize_zpsb5573b4e.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/20141020_235442_resize_zpsb5573b4e.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/20141020_235416_resize_zps1809ac50.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/20141020_235416_resize_zps1809ac50.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/Image00001_zpslryu4xhg.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/Image00001_zpslryu4xhg.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/2016-02-29%2017.29.50_resize_zpsrq92i8z3.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGX115/2016-02-29%2017.29.50_resize_zpsrq92i8z3.jpg.html)
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(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102650_resize_zps7f4cc811.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102650_resize_zps7f4cc811.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102705_resize_zps6a0283ef.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102705_resize_zps6a0283ef.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102739_resize_zps1f557131.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102739_resize_zps1f557131.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102725_resize_zps84b00f36.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/2014-12-25102725_resize_zps84b00f36.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/20141222_073256_resize_zps109df4ff.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/20141222_073256_resize_zps109df4ff.jpg.html)
(http://i1375.photobucket.com/albums/ag448/qrchandc26/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/20141221_221857_resize_zps0311f9f3.jpg) (http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/qrchandc26/media/Grand%20Seiko%20SBGE029G/20141221_221857_resize_zps0311f9f3.jpg.html)
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Bro Mikey, really stunning pieces that you posted here. Even though I do not own a GS, looking at the photo already made my hand itching.
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do it brotha :D
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somebody's going to loose some sleep because of mikey :Laughing_on_floor:
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(http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff368/fairaza/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03-09%2023.12.35.jpg) (http://s1232.photobucket.com/user/fairaza/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03-09%2023.12.35.jpg.html)
:Dancing_banana:
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(http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff368/fairaza/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03-09%2023.12.35.jpg) (http://s1232.photobucket.com/user/fairaza/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-03-09%2023.12.35.jpg.html)
:Dancing_banana:
Help!.....this is really poisoning..i think the only cure is to stay away from the forum... ;D
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(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv272/sidestreaker/Timepiece/20140801_154229_zps05936ff7.jpg) (http://s691.photobucket.com/user/sidestreaker/media/Timepiece/20140801_154229_zps05936ff7.jpg.html)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1442/25083761436_108be53617_c.jpg)
[URL=http://s691.photobucket.com/user/sidestreaker/media/Timepiece/IMAG0816_zpsiitjks99.jpg.html](http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv272/sidestreaker/Timepiece/IMAG0816_zpsiitjks99.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/EdyQns)
The pictures above can tell you more than what I can explain. I love all the pictures posted here so far.
Yeah, but you know, it is JUST A SEIKO...
Personally, I don't really give a rat@$$ what others may think of the brand. I wasn't gonna miss out the opportunity to own this piece of art.
Happy owner here.
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This is turning into a GS poison tread...and it looks like cream dials are a favorite here.
Anyway, are GS watches more prone to scuffs and scratches? I ask because the high level of polishing make them look quite susceptible to wear.
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Surprisingly no. I have been wearing mine daily while doing all sorts of activities. Playing with my kids, going to the market , sometimes I even forgot that I'm wearing it while cleaning the garage. ;D
Not as noticable as my Panerais. My 2 cents worth
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any recommended shop for GS.... i m seriously considering a showflake

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any recommended shop for GS.... i m seriously considering a showflake 
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Timelessluxwatches...azfinetime...direct from japan
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thx... but my apology for not stating clearly... "shop in Kuala Lumpur"
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think i've seen some models at watatime pavillion
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thx... but my apology for not stating clearly... "shop in Kuala Lumpur"
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GS shop in Sunway Pyramid
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lovely! thanks mike
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thx... but my apology for not stating clearly... "shop in Kuala Lumpur"
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GS shop in Sunway Pyramid
Visited the shop in Sunway Pyramid yesterday. Seems like not much varieties.
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do they hv hi beat or snow flake in store?
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The last time I went there was around CNY. That's when I handled the GMT hi beat (last one they had). They don't hold a lot of stock as I understand from the sales rep.
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do they hv hi beat or snow flake in store?
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hi beat yes
no SF if i remember from last time
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do they hv hi beat or snow flake in store?
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hi beat yes
no SF if i remember from last time
Yes, they have hi beat and spring drive. Did not see any SF in the store but I did not ask either.
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Managed to see many Grand Seiko displayed in one of the shop in Johor Bahru, I am not sure any WIS actually go to view them in person, I personally dun like the look of the basic range GS, but the rest are stunning.. :thumbsup:
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(http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv272/sidestreaker/Timepiece/20140801_154229_zps05936ff7.jpg) (http://s691.photobucket.com/user/sidestreaker/media/Timepiece/20140801_154229_zps05936ff7.jpg.html)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1442/25083761436_108be53617_c.jpg)
[URL=http://s691.photobucket.com/user/sidestreaker/media/Timepiece/IMAG0816_zpsiitjks99.jpg.html](http://i691.photobucket.com/albums/vv272/sidestreaker/Timepiece/IMAG0816_zpsiitjks99.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/EdyQns)
The pictures above can tell you more than what I can explain. I love all the pictures posted here so far.
Yeah, but you know, it is JUST A SEIKO...
Personally, I don't really give a rat@$$ what others may think of the brand. I wasn't gonna miss out the opportunity to own this piece of art.
Happy owner here.
Nice! What model is this?
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Nice! What model is this?
Thanks. It's SBGR061.
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nice creamy dial ....
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Interested in a sbga029 but gotta wait till mikey gets his one first before I decide lol
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Nice! What model is this?
Thanks. It's SBGR061.
Cool!!
Interested in a sbga029 but gotta wait till mikey gets his one first before I decide lol
Sure or not?
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Nice! What model is this?
Thanks. It's SBGR061.
Cool!!
Interested in a sbga029 but gotta wait till mikey gets his one first before I decide lol
Sure or not? 
Well brother Lee, EP first, then BLNR, then Pepsi, then SBGA029 

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Nice! What model is this?
Thanks. It's SBGR061.
Cool!!
Interested in a sbga029 but gotta wait till mikey gets his one first before I decide lol
Sure or not? 
Well brother Lee, EP first, then BLNR, then Pepsi, then SBGA029 


Yay to that. Group buy!
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do they hv hi beat or snow flake in store?
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hi beat yes
no SF if i remember from last time
Yes, they have hi beat and spring drive. Did not see any SF in the store but I did not ask either.
Visited Mid-Valley last Saturday, noted that the AxG boutique got a number of GS available, more variety than the boutique in Sunway. They have a GS Limited Edition. Almost pull the trigger .....
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GS is a superb quality watch but yes sometimes one would hesitate over spending that kind of money on a Seiko (there's no right or wrong there...just depends on the person). If you want to spend less, you can get the SDGM003 or SARB033 or even a Seiko 5 (SMKL41). But the less you pay, the less quality you get.
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The GS are awesome watches,.. just curious tho' if you can get discounts of the MRSP at the ADs?
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The GS are awesome watches,.. just curious tho' if you can get discounts of the MRSP at the ADs?
Asked before, discount will be given but not much and depends on model.
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Reading through this tread with full of superb pictures of GS has really left a deep impression. I think I need to get hold of GS soon .... :laugh:
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Who can resist such beauty?
(http://i1287.photobucket.com/albums/a639/jinkhang/Mobile%20Uploads/86E5FCA9-0D30-40BD-B736-1EA8BA679B5A_zpsovbyg4yi.jpg) (http://s1287.photobucket.com/user/jinkhang/media/Mobile%20Uploads/86E5FCA9-0D30-40BD-B736-1EA8BA679B5A_zpsovbyg4yi.jpg.html)
My sbga103. Fantastic with the extra accurate SD movement!
It's at +12 seconds after 2 months
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(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y405/roystock/29D95356-3FE2-4E52-B5CE-27FC665E561B_zpsjdplogdu.jpg) (http://s1273.photobucket.com/user/roystock/media/29D95356-3FE2-4E52-B5CE-27FC665E561B_zpsjdplogdu.jpg.html)
Check out the reflection on wall :)
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This is why GS is so brilliant
(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y405/roystock/29D95356-3FE2-4E52-B5CE-27FC665E561B_zpsjdplogdu.jpg) (http://s1273.photobucket.com/user/roystock/media/29D95356-3FE2-4E52-B5CE-27FC665E561B_zpsjdplogdu.jpg.html)
Check out the reflection on wall :)
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(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y405/roystock/29D95356-3FE2-4E52-B5CE-27FC665E561B_zpsjdplogdu.jpg) (http://s1273.photobucket.com/user/roystock/media/29D95356-3FE2-4E52-B5CE-27FC665E561B_zpsjdplogdu.jpg.html)
Check out the reflection on wall :)
Wow... GS got something very special.
I tested my watches just now. Most of my watches just have the glass round shape reflection and none can achieve your GS reflection like that. It's puzzling me how can the hours marker reflection pierce through the sapphire glass and show up its reflection on the wall so clear and neat.
:thumbsup:
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Because the Sapphire on a GS is the clearest you can find (they manufacture their own Sapphire glass) and the polishing of their hands and indices are bright and reflective like diamonds.
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Which model is the GS iconic or representative model ? Like Cartier have Santos n tank , Rolex is submariner n GMT, Maurice is pontos, JLC is reverso
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The first thing that comes to mind is the HiBeat. However that is more of the movement than a model. A possible candidate is the Snowflake
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