To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Grand Seiko brand, a limited edition model featuring a hand-engraved dial inspired by Shizukuishi Town, Iwate Prefecture—the location of the Shizukuishi Watch Studio where Grand Seiko's mechanical movements are manufactured—will be released. Limited to 20 pieces worldwide, this model is scheduled to be available sequentially in Japan and overseas starting July 10, 2020.

The Shizukuishi Watch Studio was established in Shizukuishi Town, Iwate Prefecture, in 2004. It is a manufacture that handles everything from the production of components such as the hairsprings and gears that form the heart of Grand Seiko's mechanical watches, to their assembly, adjustment, inspection, and shipment. Many of its artisans have been recognized with the Medal with Yellow Ribbon, awarded by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare annually to individuals recognized as leading experts in their fields with outstanding skills, and have achieved excellent results in watchmaking competitions. These artisans' exceptional skills are the foundation for manufacturing the world's finest mechanical watches.

The motif of this model, "Teki-seki" (dripping stone), is said to be the origin of the name Shizukuishi, which was given approximately 1,000 years ago. Legend has it that in a cave in the forests of Shizukuishi at that time, "drips" falling from the ceiling would hit a "stone" below, and the sound of the "drips" would resonate within the cave, echoing through the stillness of the forest. It is said that people who came to hear this mysterious sound began to affectionately call the place "Shizukuishi."

Master engraver Kiyoshi Terui, who was honored as a "Master Craftsman of the Modern Era," has expressed this scene of water dripping onto stone on the dial using his skilled engraving techniques. The pattern engraved on the hour and minute hands is inspired by dripping water, while the indexes represent the water splashing upon hitting the stone.

The dial has a three-part construction made of 18K white gold. Engraving is applied with Mr. Terui's highly advanced techniques to the hour mark portions, which curve gently outwards. While engraving straight lines onto a curved surface is difficult, the emphasized straight lines emit a strong brilliance, further enhancing the legibility that Grand Seiko prides itself on.

The brand logo and the SD (Special Dial) mark at the 6 o'clock position are also engraved by Mr. Terui, showcasing the artisan's skill poured into every detail of the dial. A 18K yellow gold emblem featuring the "Lion Crest," the symbol of the brand, is attached to the case back, completing the commemorative model.

This piece is limited to 20 units worldwide and is scheduled to be available at Grand Seiko Boutiques and Grand Seiko Salons starting July 10, 2020.

<Grand Seiko> Elegance Collection Grand Seiko 60th Anniversary Limited Edition
Ref. | SBGW263
Movement | Manual-winding (Caliber 9S64)
Power Reserve | Approx. 72 hours
Case Material | Pt950
Case Diameter | 39mm
Strap Material | Crocodile leather
Water Resistance | 3 bar
Price | ¥10,000,000 (excluding tax)
Limited Edition | 20 pieces worldwide
Availability | Scheduled to be available at Grand Seiko Boutiques from July 10, 2020