Overview
Since its founding in 1881, Seiko’s watchmakers have dedicated their efforts to producing some of the most durable, highly precise, and expertly finished watches in the world. An important milestone in that pursuit was realized in 1960 with the introduction of Grand Seiko and its first watch. The Grand Seiko “First”, as it’s aptly named, featured a 35mm gold-plated case with beveled lugs, diamond polished indices, and flat dauphine hands. Most notably, the hand-wound caliber 3180 inside was the very first chronometer-rated movement made in Japan, boasting an impressive accuracy of +12/-3 seconds per day. Seiko made certain to highlight this accomplishment by proudly displaying “Chronometer” below the Grand Seiko branding on the dial.
In 2011, to celebrate its 130th anniversary, Seiko re-issued the Grand Seiko “First” in stainless steel with a limited production run of 1300 pieces. The new SBGW033 was a near copy of the original, sharing the same 35mm case, “S” marked crown, engraved lion medallion case back, and Grand Seiko branding at 12. The dial was also given a lovely cream color, presumably to add to the vintage aesthetic. Grand Seiko would go on to release subsequent versions, including one in 2017 with an upsized 38mm case and a stark white dial. However, the SBGW033 remains the most faithful re-issue of the original and in recent years has seen a tremendous spike in collectibility thanks to its modest proportions and relative scarcity.
Specifications
Brand:
Grand Seiko
Model:
'First' 130th Anniversary LE
Reference:
SBGW033
Year:
2011
Case Number:
0549/1300
Case Material:
Stainless steel
Diameter:
35.8 mm
Lug Width:
18 mm
Thickness:
11.2 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
43.4 mm
Dial:
Cream
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Hand-wound
Caliber:
Grand Seiko 9S64
Bracelet/Strap:
Grand Seiko black alligator strap with tang buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The case is in impeccable condition and likely worn only a handful of times. There are a few tiny hairlines present, the most notable of which are on the lug at 1 o’clock. The lugs are nice and strong with sharp beveled edges. The case back retains the original sticker and shows no signs of wear underneath.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The cream dial and polished handset are in perfect condition with no imperfections. The sapphire crystal is completely clean and scratch-free.
Bracelet/Strap: The Grand Seiko black alligator strap is essentially unworn. There is no creasing, staining, or fraying present.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown-winding and time-setting are working as expected.
Service History: None.
