Grand Seiko may not have invented the GMT watch — that accolade typically goes to Rolex or Glycine, depending on your definition — but the brand may have perfected it. Seiko’s luxury subsidiary currently lists 46 GMT models across its three main movement groups: Spring Drive, Hi-Beat Automatic, and High-Accuracy Quartz, and it’s just added two more.
The latest Grand Seiko GMT watches fall under the brand’s Sport Collection and are powered by the Caliber 9F86 quartz movement. Like all Grand Seiko GMTs, the new timepieces are “true” GMTs, so called because they feature an independently-adjustable hour hand that can be changed to align with new time zones when traveling without interrupting the other timekeeping functions. The 9F quartz movements also boast other premium features that set them apart from typical quartz, like an instantaneous date change, a Twin Pulse Control Motor for more precise movement of the hands, and accuracy to within 10 seconds per year.
The new watches — SBGN027 and SBGN029 — are essentially updated versions of the fan-favorite SBGN003 and SBGN005. Like those watches, the new GMTs feature a fixed stainless steel bezel with 24-hour markings, a 39mm case, a three-link stainless steel bracelet, a sapphire crystal, a discreet two-tone inner bezel, 100m water resistance, and Lumibrite. They’re not the same as their predecessors, however, as the new watches feature updated design language consistent with other recent GS releases. This includes moving the crown and date window to four o’clock, a more streamlined case, and broader, less-sharp hands.
The SBGN029 combines a blue sunray dial with a red GMT hand, while the SBGN027 goes for a monochrome look with a black dial with a white fourth hand. Both watches are available to pre-order now from Grand Seiko’s online boutique, with pricing set at $3,300 and shipments expected to begin on September 1.
