Grand Seiko: On its own merits

[Oyster Sauce]

I made a similar thread in the Omega subforum, and thought it would apply to Grand Seiko as well. Especially amidst the Rolex "shortages" of recent years, various disgruntled enthusiasts have looked for alternatives among other brands like GS. It usually goes something like this: "Since there's very little chance of getting a Rolex ______ from my AD, maybe I'll take a look at what GS can offer to scratch that itch." I sympathize with this, and it's cool to see folks look at GS who might not otherwise.

The point of this thread, however, is to invite GS fans to share why/when GS deserves consideration as a "first" choice brand. I perceive that there is no one brand that does everything the best; rather, one might select a brand/model based upon what they are looking for. Here are some of the things in which I think GS stands on its own merits:

1. Metal finishing. From the Zaratsu finish on the case to the micro-hand finishing on the dial furniture, I've really never seen anything else quite like it. Even the finishing on the movement is of very high quality. Some brands use precious stones to add sparkle to their timepieces; GS polishes its metal to achieve an arguably even sparklier effect. Somehow even my entry-level GS automatic is the sparkliest watch in my collection. It literally "outshines" the other brands. Just amazing.

2. Japanese artistry dials. This is a very specific trait of GS that has become their calling card. Most other brands can't achieve this simply because they are not Japanese (ie. in psyche, mentality, cultural context). The textures, techniques, and colors are very unique to GS and their cultural pride. I will be honest and say that the most artistic of dials are not for everyone or every situation, but one can not deny that they are masterpieces.

3. Hi-Beat Movements. Outside of Zenith, no other major company has regular and varied options at 36,000 oscillations per hour.

4. Spring Drive Movements. A true achievement and commitment to concept (and accuracy in timekeeping). Certainly there are skeptics who deny the "mechanical purity" of spring drive...perfectly fine. Those folks should get a GS Hi-Beat

5. High Accuracy Quartz. Again, commitment to accuracy, packaged in the same magnificent GS form.

That's what I could think of on the spot. I don't think that GS is a direct 1:1 replacement for Rolex across the model spectrum, but I don't think it needs to be. It stands on its own, with its own unique place in the market. What do you think?