Grand Seiko released a Kodo Constant Force Tourbillon at Watches & Wonders 2024

Introduction of the Masterpiece Collection: Ref. SLGT005

Grand Seiko unveiled a new marvel in its high-complication horology line-up with the Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon. This limited edition of just 20 pieces marks another noteworthy chapter in Grand Seiko’s innovative journey.

Historical Significance and Design Inspiration

In 2022, Grand Seiko achieved a significant milestone by launching its first mechanical complication – the Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon. This piece uniquely integrated a tourbillon and a constant-force mechanism on the same axis, a pioneering feat in watchmaking. It was not only a technical breakthrough but also earned the Chronometry Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, cementing its status in the watchmaking world. I was lucky enough to see it live at one of the four GPHG events held in India in 2022 and photograph it as pictured above.

The new model continues the legacy, drawing inspiration from the tranquil moments of daybreak, unlike its predecessor that represented the evening twilight. This design choice highlights the interplay of light and shadow, a central theme in Grand Seiko aesthetics, now reflecting the early morning’s gentle light.

Aesthetic and Design Features

The latest Kodo model showcases a bright, silver-toned movement, enhancing its intricate and layered components. These are hand-polished to perfection, emphasizing the watch’s refined beauty. For the first time, Grand Seiko incorporates blue sapphires as jewels within the movement, enhancing the dawn-inspired theme with elegance and a splash of color.

Craftsmanship at Atelier Ginza

Designed and assembled by an elite team at Grand Seiko’s Atelier Ginza, this timepiece exemplifies the brand’s commitment to unique and innovative craftsmanship. The Atelier is renowned for creating some of the most exclusive and creatively ambitious mechanical watches.

Technical Excellence

The Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon is encased in Platinum and Brilliant Hard Titanium, measuring 43.8mm by 12.9mm with Zaratsu polishing for a flawless mirror finish. It features a box-shaped AR-coated sapphire crystal and a display back, revealing the complex inner workings. The manual-wind in-house caliber 9ST1 includes 44 jewels and operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, offering a 3-day power reserve and magnetic resistance up to 4,800 A/m.

Unique Features and Accessories

This model stands out with a skeletonized dial and a leather strap derived from durable materials treated traditionally used in samurai armor. This strap, a new addition in white, undergoes tanning with natural substances and multiple hand-applied layers of white urushi lacquer, achieving a deep sheen and distinctive texture. Additionally, the watch includes a grey crocodile strap and a Platinum three-fold clasp, enhancing its luxurious appeal.

Availability and Pricing

The Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon Ref. SLGT005 will be available exclusively at Grand Seiko Boutiques from December 2024. With a price tag of 385,000 Euros, it represents a significant investment in one of the most sophisticated timepieces available today, combining artistic beauty with mechanical precision in a very limited capacity of just 20 pieces for the world!

At the end of the day…

At the end of at the day, the Grand Seiko Kodo Constant-Force Tourbillon is a statement of artistic craftsmanship and technological innovation, designed for collectors and connoisseurs who appreciate the finer details in the realm of luxury watches.