Founded in 1960 with the sole intention of challenging the idea that Swiss watchmaking was the be-all and end-all of the watchmaking industry, Grand Seiko has endeavored to create some of the most technically astute and wonderfully crafted timepieces possible. Launched 7 years after the brand was founded, the watch that we have here, the 62GS ref. 6246-9001 was debuted as the brand’s first automatic watch. Featuring a distinctive four o’clock crown designed to keep the case flush and symmetrical while also emphasizing its automatic winding capability through its comparatively inaccessibility, the 62GS is as aesthetically unique as it is mechanically astute. Available with either the date or the day and date in the 3 o’clock position, and a quick-set date function too (a notable innovation at that time), the 62GS was certainly impressive at the time of its debut. Boasting a 36mm stainless steel case with sharp lines throughout its lugs and bezel, the 62GS is an impressively stylish watch that showcases Grand Seiko’s awareness of the need for their watches to look the part too.

An incredibly impressive watch for its time and a clear indication as to where Grand Seiko were headed, the 62GS is an important watch for Seiko collectors on account of its movement, design, and history.