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When it comes to dial design, Grand Seiko is perhaps the most revered name in the watch industry. With models inspired by the seasons, its nation’s cultural history, and the milieu of its two main studios, the Japanese watchmaker has plenty of models for the discerning buyer. Yet, one dial design in particular remains its most iconic (as well as our personal favorite): the “Snowflake”, presented here as the Spring Drive SBGA211.
Debuting in 2005 in Japan (globally in 2010), the “Snowflake” dial isn’t merely a blanket of snow-inspired white but the result of an innovative, multi-step process. An accumulation of over 80 separate steps, the dial process begins with stamping a brass plate with a textured pattern and leads to a special brushing technique, silver plating, coating, and eventually the finishing touches, all evoking the look of freshly fallen snow. For the SBGA211, it’s displayed inside a 41mm case made of high-intensity titanium, which is not only known for its high scratch and corrosion resistance but also for being 30% lighter than stainless steel.
Of course, if you think beauty is only skin deep, Grand Seiko’s Spring Drive movement is here to prove you wrong. Inside the wintery watch is this hybrid wonder, blending the best of both mechanical and quartz calibers. Basically, the mainspring of a traditional mechanical movement gets wound, thus powering the hands as it unwinds. However, for the Spring Drive — which is the result of over two decades of R&D — the accuracy of the mainspring is managed by an electromagnetic speed-regulating unit. Displayed through the exhibition caseback, the Caliber 9R65 Spring Drive creates a smooth gliding seconds hand and also boasts a 72-hour power reserve, tracked on a dial-side indicator.
Available now from Grand Seiko’s website, the Spring Drive SBGA211 “Snowflake” is priced at $6,600.
