Introducing: The Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 36000 'Special' SBGH266 For 20th Anniversary Of Caliber 9S

March 22, 2018

Grand Seiko has introduced several new limited edition Hi-Beat watches to celebrate a milestone: the 20th anniversary of the groundbreaking caliber 9S, which, 20 years ago, was the first mechanical Grand Seiko movement in 20 years, and the first of a new series of mechanical Grand Seikos that continues today. A platinum Hi-Beat VFA model in a very limited series (only 20 pieces total) is being produced, but Grand Seiko is also offering this Hi-Beat "Special" model in gold, which is adjusted to better-than-standard Hi-Beat 9S85 specs, at +4/-2 seconds per day, vs. +5/-3 for the standard 9S85. Initial Thoughts The Hi-Beat Special SBGH266 shares several design features with the platinum VFA model, SBGH265, including the case design, as well as a dial engraved with a spiral pattern which uses the G and S of the Grand Seiko logo, alternating with a symbol used to designate watches made by Daini Seikosha. The latter C now Seiko Instruments Inc. C was the Seiko division that developed the first Grand Seiko Hi-Beat movement, in 1969 (it's now Seiko Instruments Inc.).? Of course, this is also the year of another important anniversary for Grand Seiko. In addition to being the 20th anniversary of the caliber 9S, it's also the 50th anniversary of the Hi-Beat automatic C the first, the 61GS, was introduced in 1968. Just on the basis of the initial press-kit photos, this looks like it's going to be a knockout in person. Grand Seiko watches take a back seat to none in terms of functionality but all that gold, polished to Grand Seiko standards, will very likely make for an extremely handsome and downright eye-catching watch. And the "Special" adjustment, of course is a touch very much in line with the core Grand Seiko ethos of creating the best possible watch from a functional standpoint as well. As with the platinum VFA model, this one is aimed squarely at serious (and relatively well funded) Grand Seiko enthusiasts C of which there are more every day. The Basics Brand: Grand SeikoModel: Hi-Beat Special For 20th Anniversary of caliber 9SReference Number: SBGH26Diameter: 39.5mmThickness: 13mmCase Material: 18k gold, Zaratsu polishedDial: White, engraved with Grand Seiko G and S, and Daini Seikosha emblem in a spiral patternIndexes: Applied and laser polishedWater Resistance: 100 metersStrap/Bracelet: Crocodile strap, gold folding clasp The Movement Caliber: Grand Seiko caliber 9S85Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, dateDiameter: 28.4mmPower Reserve: 55 hoursWinding: AutomaticFrequency: 5 Hz (36,000 vph)Jewels: 37Chronometer Certified: Seiko "Special" adjustment; +4/-2 seconds/dayAdditional Details: MEMS fabricated skeletonized escape wheel with micro-oil reservoir teeth; MEMS fabricated skeletonized lever Pricing & Availability Price: $27,000Availability: Coming SoonLimited Edition: 150 piecesFind more technical info on the Hi-Beat caliber 9S85 here; visit Grand Seiko right here.