Grand Seiko - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIV Hong Kong Friday, May 27, 2022 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Grand Seiko
    Year: Circa 1972
    Reference No: 61GS V.F.A
    Movement No: 250’405
    Case No: 6186-8000-G, 250’097
    Model Name: Grand Seiko V.F.A
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 6186B, 25 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 37mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    Since its first inception in 1960, the major aim for Grand Seiko was to produce timepieces that are precise as possible. The pursuit of ultimate precision for mechanical watch led to V.F.A – “Very Fine Adjusted”. As the name implies, the distinguishing characteristic was the high precision.

    The fine elite watchmakers at Grand Seiko achieved an accuracy that far exceeded any chronometer certification that was available during that era. Now known as ‘Grand Seiko Standard’ with a mean daily rate between -3/+5 seconds at the time, against the Swiss Standard chronometer testing with a mean daily rate at -1/+10 seconds. With that high standard benchmark, Grand Seiko V.F.A was in its league of its own. Keeping an astonishing precision rate of +/-1 minute per month which was a level that was unprecedented for any mechanical wristwatch.

    The present lot 61GS V.F.A belongs to the early batch production in 1972, with case back engraved 2 and 5, 2 standing for the year 1972 and 5 for the month it was produced: May. Another subtle detail that will be appreciated by collectors where on the dial is the ‘Suwa Seikosha” logo that is printed under the VFA signature. It was one of two facilities that the parent Seiko group created to have a ‘healthy’ competition against another Seiko facility ‘Daini Seikosha’ with the aim and belief that could lead to improved timepieces.

    A combination of rarity and high precision of the present lot is a piece that shouldn’t be missed by any collectors.

Σ1104

Lot offered with No Reserve

Ref. 61GS V.F.A
A very precise and rare stainless steel wristwatch with center seconds, day and date

Circa 1972
37mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$55,000 - 80,000 
€7,000-10,200
$7,100-10,300

Sold for HK$81,900

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia 
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIV

Hong Kong Auction 27 - 28 May 2022