Two new limited edition 45GS replica watches reflect the heritage and evolution of Grand Seiko’s high-precision watchmaking craftsmanship.
In 1968, Grand Seiko introduced the 45GS. Just one year after the launch of this watch, the 44GS launched a legendary piece that established the brand’s design code, Grand Seiko Style. Although the two watches are almost identical in shape, the 45GS offers significant improvements in stability and performance thanks to the Caliber 4520, the brand’s first hand-wound high-frequency movement. Now, two replicas of this milestone are born, one in stainless steel and the other in 18k gold, paying homage to the two replica watches launched in 1968.
The new replica watch closely follows the original case and dial design. The original angular case design, with flat mirror-polished surfaces and curved case sides, has been reproduced using Grand Seiko’s latest watchmaking technology. The design is based on the interplay of light and shadow to create extraordinary brilliance, which has been at the heart of Grand Seiko’s design grammar since its inception in 1967 with the 44GS.
The dial color and letters are almost identical to the original. Seiko letters appear at 12 o’clock, crafted to reimagine the retro character of the original letters. At six o’clock, one will notice the letters GS and Hi-Beat; the number 36000, indicating the high frequency of the movement; and even the Daini Seiko factory logo indicating the birthplace of the original 45GS.
The watches are powered by fake Grand Seiko’s latest hand-wound high-frequency mechanical movement, the Caliber 9SA4. Like Caliber 4520, the new 9SA4 strives for high rate stability and precision at 10 beats per second; however, thanks to Grand Seiko’s efficient double-pulse escapement and two barrels, it achieves this when fully wound 80 hours power reserve. Caliber 9SA4 not only reaches the pinnacle of performance in high-frequency watchmaking, but the design of the movement also pays special attention to the tactile, auditory and visual sensations during manual winding, creating an ideal experience for watch wearers.
The click and click springs are tailored for the perfect feel and sound. While the original 45GS had a closed case back, the replica’s case back is transparent, allowing the clicky bird-pecking movement and beauty of the movement’s finish to be admired during the manual winding process.
Both watches will be available as limited editions in November 2024. The gold version will be exclusive to Grand Seiko boutiques, while the stainless steel version will be available at Grand Seiko boutiques and select retail partners worldwide.
Grand Seiko Heritage Series
45GS limited edition replica: SLGW004, SLGW005
Movement 9SA4
Drive system: manual winding
Frequency: 36,000 vibrations per hour (10 vibrations per second)
Accuracy (mean daily difference): +5 to -3 seconds per day
Power reserve: 80 hours
Number of gems: 47
Specification
18k yellow gold case and buckle (SLGW004)
Stainless steel case and buckle (SLGW005)
Box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface
Transparent case back
Water resistance: 3 bar
Antimagnetic: 4,800 A/m
Diameter: 38.8mm, Thickness: 10.4mm
Alligator leather strap with 18k yellow gold buckle (SLGW004) Alligator leather strap with stainless steel buckle (SLGW005)