Grand Seiko was founded in 1960 as Seiko’s luxury watchmaking division. Conceived with the express purpose of providing a stage for luxury Japanese watchmaking, Grand Seiko was the platform on which Seiko began to noticeably flex their watchmaking muscles. Now forging a name for itself as a watchmaker that rivals brands like Rolex, Omega, and so on, the market has begun to turn to vintage Grand Seiko and appreciate the value, character, and level of watchmaking that their pieces offer.
Here I have a stunning GS 6155-8000 “Special” in stainless steel. Launched in late 1970, the Grand Seiko “Specials” were one of the most accurate collections produced by GS at the time, regulated to an impressive +/- 3 seconds per day – far exceeding chronometer standards of -4/+6 seconds per day. The only vintage Grand Seiko model to ever feature its own exclusive movement, the ref. 6155-8000 is powered by the hi-beat caliber 6155 automatic movement, beating away at 36,000 beats per hour. An impressive feat still to this day, for the 70’s it was an incredible achievement and stands as a testament to Grand Seiko’s prolific abilities.
Offered in stainless steel, the ref. 6155-8000’s sharp satin-brushed case features a screw-down caseback and comes equipped with 50m of water resistance. An unusually large level of water resistance for a dress watch, particularly for the time, Grand Seiko clearly wanted to show the Swiss up in any way they could. Fitted with a sunburst silver dial with applied stick indices, the ref 6155-800 offers a versatile wearing experience thanks to its comfortable 36mm diameter, neutral dial color and impressive movement, and water resistance. Finished beautifully and exhibiting the same charm that has enabled vintage Grand Seiko to catch on recently, this beautiful timepiece is a testament to just how good Grand Seiko watches have always been.
