Anyway, this dial is said to represent snow covered trees, and the Japanese concept of “Yukigesho,” which implies a fresh dusting of snow. OK, sure. I can see that. It’s white, and there’s a vertical texture. It’s striking, whether you immediately think of a snow scene or not. It’s wrapped up in a case from the Elegance collection measuring 39.5mm, the lines of which are inspired by the first Grand Seiko, released in 1960. It’s a simple design compared to something more facet heavy like a 44GS case, but it’s a great size and the kind of case you can imagine wearing daily, despite the implication of a watch in the “Elegance” collection being something a bit formal or stuffy.
The SBGJ217 runs on the 9S86 movement, an automatic GMT caliber that is something of a modern Grand Seiko classic. Their execution of the GMT complication is top notch (it’s a “true” GMT, or flyer if you prefer, with a local jumping hour hand), and this is also a hi-beat movement, which Grand Seiko claims is accurate to +5/-3 seconds per day.
Unlike the SBGH269 mentioned above, the new SBGJ217 is not a limited edition. So if my almost-a-watch-collector friend wants to take his time to decide on whether or not to take the plunge with the Yukigesho, he probably won’t miss out. The SBGJ217 will be available in March, and the retail price is $7,100. Grand Seiko