A Closer Look at the Grand Seiko SBGN003 9F Quartz GMT
Seiko is a master of producing simple, functional timepieces with understated yet unique features that set them apart. This is the case for the Grand Seiko SBGN003 9f Quartz GMT. The second time zone functionality is a complication that moves it up a notch on the scale for travelers. A jumping hours function feature is one that Seiko’s design team thoughtfully included to make minor time zone adjustments a breeze. The added convenience is one more reason for travelers to laud the wristwatch as a favorite for everyday wear, but it fulfills many other functions. The true watch enthusiast with an eye for detail would become attracted by the versatility denoted by the small yet significant features, evidenced at first glance. They draw one in for more. This model deserves the spotlight to comprehend its merits for the casual observer. It’s because a single glance cannot allow enough time for the complete comprehension of the qualities that make this timepiece worthy of a second look.
A closer look at the Grand Seiko SBGNM003 9F Quartz GMT
The dial of the Grand Seiko 9F Quartz GMT first catches the eye. It’s a simple dial with a background in an ink-black color with some degree of uniqueness. According to The Truth About Watches, the glossy treatment of the dial gives it an appearance of liquidity. There’s a chemistry between the hues of the darkness and the matte brushed finish of the bracelet in silvery stainless steel. The classic round case is 39mm in diameter with a thickness of 12.2 mm. The large bezel in a brushed finish bevels downward with its 24-hour engraved indicators for day and night. An examination of the dial reveals the faceted hour markers, raised to lend a sense of texture, with facets and lume plots filled at their ends. The hour hands are Dauphine styling with polished edges and lume filling per TV Watch Box. A date window sits at the 3 o’clock position in polished silvertone with a deep inset for depth. Tiny details such as the orange GMT indicator and the second hand are elements that make the dial visually intriguing. Polished stainless steel lugs add variety to the brushed surfaces. They make the dial pop even more. From a visual perspective, the timepiece is interesting. It also has its practical value. The sophisticated, modest styling adds to its versatility and propriety for wear on casual, sporty, and dressy occasions. It’s an all-around men’s watch that neatly fits into multiple event categories if accessorizing for the occasion is a goal.
The movement
The Grand Seiko 9F Quartz GMT 9F is a 25th-anniversary watch. It’s powered by a quartz movement. It’s a caliber 9F86 quartz GMT movement with date and GMT functions. with precision accuracy. The power plant is hand-assembled and hand-finished, enhancing its quality over other quartz movements, which have gotten a bad rap in the watch industry. Other functions are hours, minutes, and seconds. What we can say about this particular quartz movement is that it features precision time with a second hand that strikes twice per second with the dual movement imperceptible to the naked eye. Some will never accept a timepiece with a quartz movement as a luxury or high-end timepiece, however, technology has moved the quartz style ahead with enhanced durability and precision timekeeping with some ranking higher on the luxe scale than others. The 9F86, fitting neatly into this category.
The bracelet
The bracelet is a simple link style, made of stainless steel material. The brushed finish provides a lovely matte finish with a subdued demeanor. The ornate clasp features a raised monogram GS in polished characters, adding yet more diversity to a simple design. it makes the most of minimalist design elements, combining the right amount of special features to elevate the watch to a higher-end aesthetic.
Other notable features
Unlike most other GMTs, the addition of lume gives it a decent degree of legibility in all lighting conditions. It’s also worth mentioning, that the Grand Seiko comes in two additional models with various colorways. A rare green dial version is available along with a slate-grey dial that is among the more popular choices, according to A Blog to Watch reviewers. This is an entry-level watch that fulfills multiple duties from sporty to dressy occasions as an accessory, but it’s solid in delivering an accurate reading of the time with the second time zone function, along with the date and seconds’ hand.
Pricing and availability
The Grand Seiko SBGN003 9F Quartz GMT is currently available through Seiko and its associated vendors. The manufacturer’s suggested retail selling price is $3,200.
Final thoughts
You may wonder if the Grand Seiko SBGNB003 9F Quartz GMT is a high-end luxury watch with its quartz movement. Unless bias prevents a trial, we heartily recommend a few weeks on the wrist. The cost of just under $3,000 makes it an affordable option for those prepared to try an entry-level luxury wristwatch. The Grand Seiko SBGN003 9F Quartz GMT is a superb choice for anyone who crosses time zones and requires an easy-to-set watch to keep their times straight. The visual aesthetic is appealing to a wide audience with its captivating dial background, available in your choice of the glossy near liquid-like black version, an attractive and popular slate grey, and the more rare green dial. The 9F Quartz GMT is a practical luxury watch that is suitable for the office with a suit and tie, a pair of jeans at a sporting event, or for everyday use. Nothing overt forces it into any specific category. Those who prefer the more sophisticated aesthetic for dress occasions and business are likely to opt for the black dial with the green offering an indication of sportiness, and the slate gray at home with all occasions. We love the versatility and quality of the 9F GMT, and many will appreciate its price.
