Author Topic: Grand Seiko  (Read 37771 times)

Offline felixlew

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Grand Seiko
« on: January 08, 2013, 03:09:48 PM »
can any sifu tell me what is the price for Grand Seiko !!!Diver series

Offline ck77

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #1 on: January 08, 2013, 03:14:29 PM »
poison time

Offline felixlew

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #2 on: January 08, 2013, 03:16:50 PM »
.....wao what a grand price .....

Offline felixlew

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #3 on: January 08, 2013, 03:28:42 PM »
what is the different "G" and no normal seiko ??

Offline dpkong

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #4 on: January 08, 2013, 04:27:58 PM »
what is the different "G" and no normal seiko ??

one is Grand and one is not ??

 :Laughing_on_floor:

Offline felixlew

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #5 on: January 08, 2013, 06:10:13 PM »
1more question buy at [link to commercial site not allowed - forum mod] izzit save ?
« Last Edit: January 08, 2013, 06:17:55 PM by Takashi »

Offline eltontan

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #6 on: January 08, 2013, 07:52:16 PM »
Hi Felix,

check out grand seiko main website they can provide you more detail.

http://www.grand-seiko.com

Mod please remove if this link is not allow.

Offline JOS2012

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #7 on: January 08, 2013, 10:50:50 PM »
To get an idea of the RRP of current GS prices in Japan, plse refer here:

http://www.seiko-watch.co.jp/gs/collection/all.html

In Japan, hardly any discount is given for GS...

Depending on where you buy the discount will vary but it is very much lower than for Swiss/German watches.
« Last Edit: January 09, 2013, 06:37:15 AM by JOS2012 »
Personal taste and preferences evolve over years, hopefully not 1 full circle otherwise it means we haven't learnt a single thing.

Offline davidtth

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #8 on: January 09, 2013, 06:36:28 AM »
easily, the best and the top quality from Jap watch maker, completely in-houe made, a lot better than most of swiss mid range watch, nuff said  ;D

Offline takashi78

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #9 on: January 09, 2013, 06:43:27 AM »
Not to mention right down to even the oil used is produced by them if not mistaken.

Dont think any other names can say this.

Not even big daddy Swatch or Rolex.

Offline Enkidu

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #10 on: January 09, 2013, 08:04:51 AM »
easily, the best and the top quality from Jap watch maker, completely in-houe made, a lot better than most of swiss mid range watch, nuff said  ;D

After examining what you guys brought along during the GTG, I believe the finishing is better than the entry level JLCs and GOs. Would love to get a spring drive. My one remaining concern is of course whether servicing is available locally and the cost of which...... :-\   

Offline davidtth

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #11 on: January 09, 2013, 08:14:18 AM »
easily, the best and the top quality from Jap watch maker, completely in-houe made, a lot better than most of swiss mid range watch, nuff said  ;D

After examining what you guys brought along during the GTG, I believe the finishing is better than the entry level JLCs and GOs. Would love to get a spring drive. My one remaining concern is of course whether servicing is available locally and the cost of which...... :-\

as far i know, Spring Drive only can be service in Jap, only one location where the GS born in whole world. current cost for service expecting around 2k plus, exclude postage. overhaul (service + Zaratsu polish) would be around 3k plus :)

Offline Enkidu

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #12 on: January 09, 2013, 08:29:17 AM »

as far i know, Spring Drive only can be service in Jap, only one location where the GS born in whole world. current cost for service expecting around 2k plus, exclude postage. overhaul (service + Zaratsu polish) would be around 3k plus :)

Thanks for the useful information.  :thumbsup: Guess we'll just have to factor that cost in (as usual!!!) before making the purchase....

Offline euclidorus

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #13 on: January 09, 2013, 08:33:59 AM »
GS is all about being functional and practical, yet classical in design. Movement quality is definitely in the top echelon supported by the GS standard. Finishing of the dial, markers, hands all need to be seen in the flesh (preferably with some natural sun light) to be fully appreciated - photos do not do justice to such fine workmanship over dim lighting. In particular, I like the contrast of a blue second hand over a crisp white dial, as seen in Jos hi-beat (sbgh001) and manual wind (sbgw033), this I think GS has honed to perfection.

I am not concerned over servicing as Seiko makes the most reliable movement vis-a-vis its Swiss counterparts. Although 3 years is recommended for GS mechanical for servicing, I think stretching to 5-6 years should not be a problem given some regular usage.
Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.

Offline JOS2012

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #14 on: January 09, 2013, 08:46:08 AM »
Enkidu,
You worry too much.
Before I bought my first SD, I googled for months on any adverse reports on SD, reading hundreds of reviews & owners' reports
Although SD has been sold since 1995, there has only been 1 adverse report on a SBGE001 which reported that the PR could not reach full 3 days reserve and the watch kept stopping. That was also the first batch of the SBGE001.
The GS SD winding mechanism is no different from the other GS mechanical watches using the mainspring to wind/power the watch.
Only the Swiss lever escapement ( even the Swiss are trying to improve this 200 yr old design by using DRIE/MEM etching technology combined with silicium or DLC coatings) is replaced by the tri-syncro regulator. The defect for that particular SBGE001 was not the SD mechanism itself i.e. the tri syncro regulator which is the only diffrentiating element between an SD and a purely mechanical auto. We don't even know if that defect was caused by owner's handling/operating not within recommended practices.... Anyway even if 1 or 2 defects reported is amazing itself...
How many horror stories have you read on other hi-end Swiss watches...

Most Swiss/German (e.g. GO,JLC) in-house movt watches have to be sent back to the manufactory itself for service as well and will cost between RM 1,500-RM 3,000 (non complication) whereas the GS service for Malaysia is abt USD 500+shipping. When its time to send any GS for service, just send it to Thong Sia in Malaysia or Singapore and they will courier it to Japan. Time taken between 1-2 months. I've checked with Thong Sia Spore & KL. Incidentally I was told that to-date no GS has been sent back for service or repairs although there are a number of Malaysian owners who bought them overseas. By the way GS recommended service is between 5-8 yrs depending on whether you wear the watch daily or not.

The SD is very hi-tech and can only be serviced by Seiko in Japan. In fact I've always wanted my watches to go back to its manufactory even if the local distributor can do the job....
So far I insist that all my JLC/GO goes back to their manufactory when its time for service or repairs (altho no repairs so far). The only watches I had serviced locally was a) my Omega PO Chrono which is no hi-end watch with a common FP1185 based Cal 3313  b) a ubiquitious 7750 driven B&R by Sinn

When its time to service the GS I will gladly and with peace of mind, send it back to Japan where it will be fully restored to its factory finished glory... :laugh:
I know the Japanese work mentality very well as I've worked for a Japanese MNC for > a decade and have my highest respect for them. They always give 200% of their best efforts...and take pride in everything they do...no matter how menial..I'm afraid MOST locals and some caucasians don't come anywhere near that mentality....

Honestly would you prefer your GO to be serviced by SWATCH in KL or in Germany at GO manufactory...any difference between that and a GS.... or you still think that GS is a lesser watch... :HammerHead:




easily, the best and the top quality from Jap watch maker, completely in-houe made, a lot better than most of swiss mid range watch, nuff said  ;D

After examining what you guys brought along during the GTG, I believe the finishing is better than the entry level JLCs and GOs. Would love to get a spring drive. My one remaining concern is of course whether servicing is available locally and the cost of which...... :-\
« Last Edit: January 09, 2013, 09:11:35 AM by JOS2012 »
Personal taste and preferences evolve over years, hopefully not 1 full circle otherwise it means we haven't learnt a single thing.

Offline Enkidu

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #15 on: January 09, 2013, 09:25:39 AM »
Not worrying too much, Joe. It's just that like all transactions involving unique, novel or specialised products, more care must be exercised before taking the plunge. The SD GS will be around for years to come, so there is no real need to rush into it. I will only agree in so far that there are not many complaints over the internet in English, I do not know if there are any complaints written in Japanese by people in Japan where the very large percentage of the SD watches are sold.

I agree I'll prefer to have my GOs, JLCs, Zeniths, etc serviced at the factories, especially if the problem encountered is serious, requiring major change in parts and major parts. But I also prefer the opportunity to visit a local service centre to have potential minor issues resolved (like watch running a little off, the hands do not line up 100%, gasket changes etc).

Of course, I dont think GS is a lesser watch compared to a high grade Swiss/German timepiece. But that doesn't warrant not making careful enquiries before taking the plunge.

Offline JOS2012

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #16 on: January 09, 2013, 09:34:18 AM »
Your comments, concerns and enquiries are duly noted and I do see your valid issues.
My reply to your post was also in part to share whatever info I have on the servicing costs & time taken...
It was not meant to playdown your points...chill....

Will try to enlist in a Japanese class and assist for Japanese reports if you have not bought a SD by then.. :D ;D :Laughing_on_floor:


Not worrying too much, Joe. It's just that like all transactions involving unique, novel or specialised products, more care must be exercised before taking the plunge. The SD GS will be around for years to come, so there is no real need to rush into it. I will only agree in so far that there are not many complaints over the internet in English, I do not know if there are any complaints written in Japanese by people in Japan where the very large percentage of the SD watches are sold.

I agree I'll prefer to have my GOs, JLCs, Zeniths, etc serviced at the factories, especially if the problem encountered is serious, requiring major change in parts and major parts. But I also prefer the opportunity to visit a local service centre to have potential minor issues resolved (like watch running a little off, the hands do not line up 100%, gasket changes etc).

Of course, I dont think GS is a lesser watch compared to a high grade Swiss/German timepiece. But that doesn't warrant not making careful enquiries before taking the plunge.
« Last Edit: January 09, 2013, 09:38:44 AM by JOS2012 »
Personal taste and preferences evolve over years, hopefully not 1 full circle otherwise it means we haven't learnt a single thing.

Offline Enkidu

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #17 on: January 09, 2013, 09:40:10 AM »
Your comments, concerns and enquiries are duly noted and I do see your valid points..

Will try to enlist in a Japanese class and assist for Japanese reports if you have not bought a SD by then.. :D ;D :Laughing_on_floor:

And once you have enrolled in a Japanese class, I'll also bring some of the more "fleshy" Japanese magazines to you for translation. You can read them out to me at Starbucks pavilion.....

Offline JOS2012

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #18 on: January 09, 2013, 09:44:03 AM »
Read out to you ???
What for?
Just ogle at the pics and save your energy reading instead to turn the pages slowly while trying not to drool.... :Cheers:

Your comments, concerns and enquiries are duly noted and I do see your valid points..

Will try to enlist in a Japanese class and assist for Japanese reports if you have not bought a SD by then.. :D ;D :Laughing_on_floor:

And once you have enrolled in a Japanese class, I'll also bring some of the more "fleshy" Japanese magazines to you for translation. You can read them out to me at Starbucks pavilion.....
Personal taste and preferences evolve over years, hopefully not 1 full circle otherwise it means we haven't learnt a single thing.

Offline euclidorus

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #19 on: January 09, 2013, 11:40:50 AM »
+1 well said

Enkidu,
You worry too much.
Before I bought my first SD, I googled for months on any adverse reports on SD, reading hundreds of reviews & owners' reports
Although SD has been sold since 1995, there has only been 1 adverse report on a SBGE001 which reported that the PR could not reach full 3 days reserve and the watch kept stopping. That was also the first batch of the SBGE001.
The GS SD winding mechanism is no different from the other GS mechanical watches using the mainspring to wind/power the watch.
Only the Swiss lever escapement ( even the Swiss are trying to improve this 200 yr old design by using DRIE/MEM etching technology combined with silicium or DLC coatings) is replaced by the tri-syncro regulator. The defect for that particular SBGE001 was not the SD mechanism itself i.e. the tri syncro regulator which is the only diffrentiating element between an SD and a purely mechanical auto. We don't even know if that defect was caused by owner's handling/operating not within recommended practices.... Anyway even if 1 or 2 defects reported is amazing itself...
How many horror stories have you read on other hi-end Swiss watches...

Most Swiss/German (e.g. GO,JLC) in-house movt watches have to be sent back to the manufactory itself for service as well and will cost between RM 1,500-RM 3,000 (non complication) whereas the GS service for Malaysia is abt USD 500+shipping. When its time to send any GS for service, just send it to Thong Sia in Malaysia or Singapore and they will courier it to Japan. Time taken between 1-2 months. I've checked with Thong Sia Spore & KL. Incidentally I was told that to-date no GS has been sent back for service or repairs although there are a number of Malaysian owners who bought them overseas. By the way GS recommended service is between 5-8 yrs depending on whether you wear the watch daily or not.

The SD is very hi-tech and can only be serviced by Seiko in Japan. In fact I've always wanted my watches to go back to its manufactory even if the local distributor can do the job....
So far I insist that all my JLC/GO goes back to their manufactory when its time for service or repairs (altho no repairs so far). The only watches I had serviced locally was a) my Omega PO Chrono which is no hi-end watch with a common FP1185 based Cal 3313  b) a ubiquitious 7750 driven B&R by Sinn

When its time to service the GS I will gladly and with peace of mind, send it back to Japan where it will be fully restored to its factory finished glory... :laugh:
I know the Japanese work mentality very well as I've worked for a Japanese MNC for > a decade and have my highest respect for them. They always give 200% of their best efforts...and take pride in everything they do...no matter how menial..I'm afraid MOST locals and some caucasians don't come anywhere near that mentality....

Honestly would you prefer your GO to be serviced by SWATCH in KL or in Germany at GO manufactory...any difference between that and a GS.... or you still think that GS is a lesser watch... :HammerHead:




easily, the best and the top quality from Jap watch maker, completely in-houe made, a lot better than most of swiss mid range watch, nuff said  ;D

After examining what you guys brought along during the GTG, I believe the finishing is better than the entry level JLCs and GOs. Would love to get a spring drive. My one remaining concern is of course whether servicing is available locally and the cost of which...... :-\
Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.

Offline euclidorus

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #20 on: January 09, 2013, 11:46:13 AM »
Takashi, someone had told me that the oil used in high end mechanical Seikos was a primary reason for them lasting longer between service intervals, whereas those in Rolex tend to degrade faster, thus requiring more regular servicing. Not sure how true this is.

Not to mention right down to even the oil used is produced by them if not mistaken.

Dont think any other names can say this.

Not even big daddy Swatch or Rolex.
Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.

Offline harkensng

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #21 on: January 09, 2013, 12:13:50 PM »
Enkidu,
You worry too much.
Before I bought my first SD, I googled for months on any adverse reports on SD, reading hundreds of reviews & owners' reports
Although SD has been sold since 1995, there has only been 1 adverse report on a SBGE001 which reported that the PR could not reach full 3 days reserve and the watch kept stopping. That was also the first batch of the SBGE001.
The GS SD winding mechanism is no different from the other GS mechanical watches using the mainspring to wind/power the watch.
Only the Swiss lever escapement ( even the Swiss are trying to improve this 200 yr old design by using DRIE/MEM etching technology combined with silicium or DLC coatings) is replaced by the tri-syncro regulator. The defect for that particular SBGE001 was not the SD mechanism itself i.e. the tri syncro regulator which is the only diffrentiating element between an SD and a purely mechanical auto. We don't even know if that defect was caused by owner's handling/operating not within recommended practices.... Anyway even if 1 or 2 defects reported is amazing itself...
How many horror stories have you read on other hi-end Swiss watches...

Most Swiss/German (e.g. GO,JLC) in-house movt watches have to be sent back to the manufactory itself for service as well and will cost between RM 1,500-RM 3,000 (non complication) whereas the GS service for Malaysia is abt USD 500+shipping. When its time to send any GS for service, just send it to Thong Sia in Malaysia or Singapore and they will courier it to Japan. Time taken between 1-2 months. I've checked with Thong Sia Spore & KL. Incidentally I was told that to-date no GS has been sent back for service or repairs although there are a number of Malaysian owners who bought them overseas. By the way GS recommended service is between 5-8 yrs depending on whether you wear the watch daily or not.

The SD is very hi-tech and can only be serviced by Seiko in Japan. In fact I've always wanted my watches to go back to its manufactory even if the local distributor can do the job....
So far I insist that all my JLC/GO goes back to their manufactory when its time for service or repairs (altho no repairs so far). The only watches I had serviced locally was a) my Omega PO Chrono which is no hi-end watch with a common FP1185 based Cal 3313  b) a ubiquitious 7750 driven B&R by Sinn

When its time to service the GS I will gladly and with peace of mind, send it back to Japan where it will be fully restored to its factory finished glory... :laugh:
I know the Japanese work mentality very well as I've worked for a Japanese MNC for > a decade and have my highest respect for them. They always give 200% of their best efforts...and take pride in everything they do...no matter how menial..I'm afraid MOST locals and some caucasians don't come anywhere near that mentality....

Honestly would you prefer your GO to be serviced by SWATCH in KL or in Germany at GO manufactory...any difference between that and a GS.... or you still think that GS is a lesser watch... :HammerHead:


Friends, this is an interesting thread. hopefully the knowledgable members here can make this thread instructive to all lovers of high end seiko like the gs.

although i really love the gs spring drive (especially the GMT model), i have not pulled the trigger. i do not doubt the spring drive is great tech and soon all watches in the 21 century may be made using this tech or something closely the same. but like enkidu said, servicing may be an issue. sometimes, we are just plain unlucky and buy a watch with many minor problems that surface one after another. the last thing i want is to send the watch multiple times to Japan or Taiwan for service and repair...... so until seiko create a service centre for spring drive in singapore or kuala lumpur, i will wait.....and yes, my friend from taipei told me seiko service centre in taipei can service grand seiko (not sure if this include spring drive.... ::))

God bless,
harken


Offline JOS2012

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #22 on: January 09, 2013, 12:21:43 PM »
harken,
Nice to hear from another GS fan. :Cheers:
Heard you have a treasure trove of vintage GSs......care to share pics of all your GS, vintage or modern... :Praying:
You have a ready buyer for a mint condition GS vintage at a fair price here...'muah' :Jumping:

BTW although Seiko Taiwan can service a GS, its not much nearer than Tokyo so I'd still send the GS back to its motherland.. :laugh:
not unless the owner goes to Taiwan often....

We should organise a GS gathering soon.. I know of at least 5 mwf members owning GS and a few others keen on acquiring one..


« Last Edit: January 09, 2013, 12:34:48 PM by JOS2012 »
Personal taste and preferences evolve over years, hopefully not 1 full circle otherwise it means we haven't learnt a single thing.

Offline eltontan

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #23 on: January 09, 2013, 01:31:05 PM »
If this website tell my mind correctly, no others place than Japan can perform the service of GS watches.

http://www.grand-seiko.com/afterservice.html

Of course hope this website up to date. According to the booklet in the box if you purchase this lovely piece. All offices around the world are Service Reception only. Japan is the only place label with Service Available, which is currently 3 of them.

Only minor adjustment, strap replacement or battery change can be done at National Service Center.

Ya Jos, is good to have GS gathering.

harken,
Nice to hear from another GS fan. :Cheers:
Heard you have a treasure trove of vintage GSs......care to share pics of all your GS, vintage or modern... :Praying:
You have a ready buyer for a mint condition GS vintage at a fair price here...'muah' :Jumping:

BTW although Seiko Taiwan can service a GS, its not much nearer than Tokyo so I'd still send the GS back to its motherland.. :laugh:
not unless the owner goes to Taiwan often....

We should organise a GS gathering soon.. I know of at least 5 mwf members owning GS and a few others keen on acquiring one..
« Last Edit: January 09, 2013, 01:34:08 PM by eltontan »

Offline harkensng

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Re: Grand Seiko
« Reply #24 on: January 09, 2013, 03:25:01 PM »
harken,
Nice to hear from another GS fan. :Cheers:
Heard you have a treasure trove of vintage GSs......care to share pics of all your GS, vintage or modern... :Praying:
You have a ready buyer for a mint condition GS vintage at a fair price here...'muah' :Jumping:

BTW although Seiko Taiwan can service a GS, its not much nearer than Tokyo so I'd still send the GS back to its motherland.. :laugh:
not unless the owner goes to Taiwan often....

We should organise a GS gathering soon.. I know of at least 5 mwf members owning GS and a few others keen on acquiring one..

Bro jos2012,
My collection is small. There are some people with very large gs collection in Malaysia.  Keeping quiet!!