Grand Seiko "Snowflake" Ref SBGA011

Parkbury's View:
Ah! What a beauty! This particular reference SBGA011 is very collectible. Feels cold in here, doesn't it?

Dunn's Assessment:
Grand Seiko really shows their skill on this piece. The drifting snow dial, the buttery smooth Spring Drive movement, the lightweight titanium build, the 72-hour power reserve, diving capacity of 100 meters, limited to only 1000 pieces, and a date window. One of the best daily wearers on the market, in my humblest opinion.

Story behind the watch:
Inspired by snowfall in Japan, the GrandSeiko "Snowflake" SBGA011 really does push the limits of modern watchmaking.  Released in 2010, it started gaining a following of collectors and enthusiasts because of the specially designed dial Watchmakers put the dial through a 6-step process to create this amazing texture of snow. Besides the dial, the watch is built in Titanium and has "Zaratsu" sword-finishing techniques applied to the metal for a brushed and high-polished contrasting. The applied hour markers are done by hand so is the assembly of the dial and movement.  It's a limited edition of only 1000 pieces which have been sold out many years ago.  

Specifications:

• 41mm
• Power reserve: 72 hours
• Features: Zaratsu finishing on titanium case/bracelet
• Caliber 9R65
• Spring Drive movement
• Limited to 1000 pieces
• Condition: Used with box/papers

Opinions of notable watch connoisseurs

"The degree of excellence in fit and finish you rightly expect from Grand Seiko is a big part of that, but as with any really successful design object, the whole is a lot more than the sum of its parts and as a design object with a uniquely Japanese heart, the Spring Drive Snowflake is deservedly a perennial Grand Seiko fan favorite." -- Hodinkee

"Not only is the movement sophisticated, the watch in entirety is refined. The Snowflake white dial can be worn diving (water resistance is 100m), desk diving, or in more formal occasions. While not a true dress watch, the beautiful textured dial lends itself to a suit for semi-formal occasions." -- Govberg Watches