Rolex, AP and IWC are in my collection, yet the Grand Seiko SBGR261 is a watch that I spent a lot of my time starring at.

This is my first Grand Seiko, and I believe there will be more to come as I’m already addicted to the craftsmanship and quality of Grand Seiko.

I spent around $3,350 and had the Grand Seiko SBGR261 couriered from Japan to Hong Kong while I was in Vietnam. I was understandably nervous about the arrival of my new watch so I asked my friend in Hong Kong to collect the package for me and then pass it to another business partner who then brought it over to Vietnam for me. Maybe all the nervous waiting for this piece made the watch even more attractive to me?

When I first received it, I was surprised by the polishing, especially on both the minute and hour hands. The reflection and the sparkle of the indices are amazing in the sunlight. I will say that the finishing of this watch has escalated the steel to another level of metal… The blue second hand pops out from this classic ivory dial too.

Despite all the fancy light show, the dial gives a well-balanced overall impression. The original strap is comfortable however, I would like to replace it with another colour to make the watch more energetic.

I am also very impressed by the calibre inside the Grand Seiko SBGR261. It is smooth, reliable and extremely accurate. I have worn the watch for over a month now and there is only a +2s difference.

Grand Seiko is not the brand to recommend for someone’s first watch. It is not as “famous” as Omega, Rolex, AP or similar but it is definitely a watch you cannot skip. For me the Grand Seiko SBGR261 is definitely a hidden gem and one that I would recommend.