The powerful profile of the lion has been an enduring symbol of Grand Seiko ever since the first Grand Seiko introduced in 1960, when a gold medallion depicting a lion graced the case back.

At Watches and Wonders Geneva 2022, Grand Seiko introduced a Spring Drive jewelry watch inspired by the white lion. Today sees the introduction of another Spring Drive masterpiece in which the strength and power of this majestic creature are brought to life through the jeweler’s art, only now it is graced by blue sapphires in honor of Grand Seiko’s signature color.

Combining the precision of Spring Drive, high legibility through carefully placed gems, and exquisite artistry and craftsmanship, this remarkable creation is in every way a showcase of the ideals of Grand Seiko.

The strong and angular lugs speak to the power of the lion. No fewer than 112 diamonds are embedded in the upper surfaces of the case and a further 60 baguette-cut diamonds adorn the bezel. All of the diamonds are set so precisely that they seem to create a single, flat surface. The seconds hand is tempered to a perfect grey color to match the overall tone, and a single brilliant-cut blue sapphire is set into the crown.

Hand craftsmanship of the highest order

On the dial, the blue sapphires and baguette diamonds are tapered and serve as hour and minute markers that surround the mother-of-pearl whose depth and texture create a tranquil space at the center. All these gems are set by hand between pairs of very thin 18k white gold rails by the most skilled of the jewelry craftsmen and women of the Shinshu Watch Studio, located in the Shiojiri facility in Nagano prefecture, where Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches are made. Forty-eight additional diamonds and 12 blue sapphires are individually set around the markers to further enhance the piercing depth and beauty of the dial.

A Spring Drive movement with eight days of power and a view of Mt. Fuji

The watch is powered by the Spring Drive Caliber 9R01, which was created by the elite team of watchmakers within the storied Micro Artist Studio, situated in the same Shiojiri facility as the Shinshu Watch Studio. Caliber 9R01 is accurate to ±10 seconds per month and offers a power reserve of eight days, or 192 hours, thanks to its three barrels arranged in sequence.

This jewelry masterpiece is offered in a limited edition of just eight and will be presented at select Grand Seiko Boutiques in June 2023.