
Grand Seiko’s Caliber 9S automatic movement helped define the brand’s identity and standards upon its debut in 1998, allowing a platform to exist on which more innovations could take place. It eventually gave birth to the Japanese watchmaker’s first-ever chronograph and its innovative Dual-Impulse Escapement. Today, Grand Seiko honors the 25th anniversary of the mechanical movement with a pair of timepieces.

First up is the SBGJ275, a sportier GMT dive watch with a beautiful light blue dial paying homage to the cloud-filled skies above the peak of Mt. Iwate, which can be viewed from Grand Seiko’s studio in Shizukuishi, Japan. Capable of 200m of water resistance, the 44.2mm stainless steel case houses a 9S86 high-beat GMT movement that can be visible through the caseback, along with the titanium oscillating weight colored in blue. The 24-hour GMT bezel pairs with the 24-hour chapter ring around the dial to track three separate time zones.

If you rather something a bit dressy and understated, the SBGM253, part of the Elegance Collection, is a better option. Also sporting a GMT movement, this time in the form of the Caliber 9S66, the watch bumps the power reserve up to 72 hours, from 55 hours of the 9S86. Here, the titanium oscillating weight is colored in a lighter blue. Only capable of tracking a second time zone with a 24-hour inner dial, the 39.5mm steel case features a much thinner bezel and is capable of only 30m of water resistance. Unlike its compatriot, the dial is not lumed, nor does it feature the clouded pattern — albeit the light blue color is still present in a sunray-brushed texture. Both timepieces sport stainless steel bracelets and date windows.

Limited to 2,000 pieces, the SBGJ275 will be available starting next month, while the SBGM253 won’t roll out until October and will be limited to just 1,700 pieces. The watches will be priced at $7,600 and $5,600, respectively. Head over to Grand Seiko’s website to learn more.