Introduction
Coming into their own in recent years, Grand Seiko have successfully become the thorn in Swiss watchmaking’s side that Seiko envisaged in 1960 when they decided to start their new luxury division. Today, Grand Seiko are undeniably positioned as the next hot brand as they challenge the Swiss establishment, and the SBGE263 is a perfect embodiment of that challenge. Released in 2020 as a USA-exclusive limited edition, the SBGE263 combines the latest in Grand Seiko technology with their most up-to-date aesthetics to create a truly contemporary timepiece. Powered by Grand Seiko’s infamous Spring Drive technology, the SBGE263’s cal. 9R66 movement integrates the accuracy of quartz technology, that the Japanese pioneered, with the aesthetics and craftsmanship of mechanical horology. Debuting on the market in 2006, the self-winding cal. 9R66 was so far ahead of its time that to this day it still transcends the competition. With 72 hours of power reserve and an accuracy of +/- 15 seconds a month the 9R66 is virtually without fault. However, besides just an incredible movement, the SBGE263 is praised for its design. Featuring a patterned rich ‘Eagle’ brown dial and a polished ceramic brown bezel to match, it is a true delight on the wrist. Integrating its date aperture into its false 4 o’clock hour marker and a subtle power reserve indicator at 8 o’clock, it is a fantastically capable timepiece. Offered in a 40.5mm diameter case that sports Grand Seiko’s famed Zaratsu polishing along its banana-shaped sides and bevelled lugs, the SBGE263 is a truly spectacular timepiece indeed.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers (Open Papers)
Est. value range
$5,000 – $7,000
The Details
Brand
Grand Seiko
Dimensions
40.5mm x 14.7mm
Model
Sport Collection Spring Drive GMT 'Eagle' USA Limited Edition
Movement
Spring Drive cal. 9R66
Reference
SBGE263
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
Circa 2021
Condition
Near mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, and papers
Dial Color
Brown
THE DIAL
Featuring a rich brown 'Eagle' dial that boasts a swirling wavy texture, the SBGE263's tonal brown and black 24-hour scale rehaut and gold GMT hand perfectly contrast the darker aesthetic of its dial.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offering capability akin to brands far outside of their price range, the SBGE263 boasts a polished brown zirconia ceramic bezel atop its 40.5mm case that serves as a source of utility and effortless style.
THE PROFILE
A tall watch on account of its compicated movement and sporty credentials, the SBGE263 features a robust profile that gives ample space for Grand Seiko's signature zaratsu polishing.
Condition
Watch is in overall near mint condition. There are some very light superficial scratches on the polished case sides and backs of the lugs. The case back is very clean. The dial is pristine. The bracelet currently fits a 6 1/2" wrist and has 9 links with 4 half links with very light signs of use and no play between the links. There are 4 additional links included with the watch. Comes complete with box and papers (open).
Our Perspective
The ultimate GMT sports watch, the SBGE263 has everything someone could want in a luxury timepiece that is perfect for traveling and tackling any challenge that it may face.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
