Grand Seiko, a leading name in Japanese watchmaking, has unveiled its first-ever men's jewelry watch, inspired by 'Fine Ice' (saihyō), a natural phenomenon also known as diamond dust. Equipped with an 8-day Spring Drive movement, this timepiece will be available in a limited edition of just 10 pieces worldwide, with sales commencing sequentially in Japan and overseas from Friday, June 19, 2020.

The "Spring Drive 8 Days Jewelry Watch" from Grand Seiko, a timepiece of refined elegance, draws inspiration from 'Fine Ice' (saihyō), a mystical natural phenomenon also known as diamond dust, observed on winter mornings in regions like Suwa. The silver-gray dial features a unique finish at its center, creating an illusion of countless particles radiating from within, evoking the sharp, random sparkle of fine ice. The box sapphire crystal captures ample light, enhancing the dial's brilliance and further accentuating the ethereal world of fine ice.

Forty-eight slender tapered baguette diamonds and twelve baguette blue sapphires, serving as minute markers, are meticulously set in a circular arrangement without gaps on the 18K white gold dial. Achieving such uniform height and orientation for each diamond and sapphire requires advanced skill, yet the precise setting by seasoned artisans results in a refined and balanced radiance.

The outer circumference of the dial is further adorned with a total of 60 diamonds and blue sapphires, while the crown is set with a brilliant-cut blue sapphire, adding an extra layer of sparkle. A slightly wider sapphire is used at the 12 o'clock position, emphasizing the vertical line between 12 and 6 o'clock to enhance legibility. At the center of the dial, the arrangement of stars forming the constellation Leo is designed, a nod to the brand's lion emblem.

The case is crafted from platinum 950, developed with a proprietary alloy. It is densified through cold forging under immense pressure, then meticulously finished with Zaratsu polishing, a technique born from unique ingenuity and masterful craftsmanship. This process achieves exceptionally flat surfaces and sharp edges, which are challenging to realize with platinum.

The Caliber 9R01 movement powering this timepiece is the work of the "Micro Artist Studio" (located within Seiko Epson Corporation's Shiojiri Plant in Nagano Prefecture), a specialized workshop dedicated to high-end watchmaking. By arranging three barrels in series, it achieves a power reserve of approximately 8 days (192 hours) while optimizing the use of limited space within the movement. The shape of the bridges is inspired by Mt. Fuji, the rotor by the sun, the rubies by the lights of Suwa city, and the power reserve indicator by Lake Suwa. Through the see-through case back, one can admire a scene reminiscent of gazing at Mt. Fuji from the birthplace of Spring Drive.