Manufacturer: Grand Seiko
Year: 1969
Reference No: 45GS
Case No: 4522 8000; 913’185
Model Name: Ref. 45GS
Material: Stainless steel
Calibre: Manual, cal. 4522A, 25 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Leather
Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Grand Seiko buckle
Dimensions: 36.8mm Diameter
Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed
Accessories: Accompanied by original Grand Seiko presentation box, hang tag and outer packaging. Also included is modern Grand Seiko Fine Vintage box and papers.
Catalogue Essay
The design of the Grand Seiko Style has carried through to the predecessor of the 44GS, the 45GS. Grand Seiko’s vintage line of 45GS watches were produced by the Daini Seikosha factory from approximately 1968 through the early 1970s. Offered with varying calibers including the time-only caliber 4520A, the caliber 4522A with date like the present lot, to the extraordinary time-only “V.F.A.” (Very Fine Adjusted) caliber 4580A, which at the time was one of the world’s most accurate mechanical wristwatch. The first two models were produced in stainless steel, steel with gold cap and rare examples in 18K yellow gold, while the “V.F.A.” model was only produced in hardened steel and stainless steel. It is interesting to note the Japanese Imperial household commissioned a series of Imperial “V.F.A.” ref. 4580-7020 timepieces, which were given as gifts to diplomats and visiting dignitaries. Never available publicly, they were a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of Grand Seiko wristwatches.

The reference 45GS is a monument to mid-20th century design and aesthetics, with a robust architectural case featuring sharp lug bevels and wide facets. The manually wound 45GS movement was known for its “Hi-Beat” frequency with 36,000bph and is designated on the dial with the Daini Seikosha logo above the 6 o’clock position. The movement featured a proprietary Diashock shock resistance system, along with a Diafix lubricant retention system on the fifth wheel. Another remarkable function of the caliber 4522A was its quick-set date, a feature rarely seen at the time. The manual-winding caliber 4522 presents several impressive improvements. The thickness of the movement has been reduced compared to the manual-winding caliber 4420B, also manufactured by Daini Seikosha. The second hand stop/restart mechanism of the caliber 45 series was applied for the Constance Force Tourbillon caliber 9ST1, which was introduced in 2022.

With the introduction of the caliber 45 Series, the low-beat manual-winding calibers 4420 (Daini Seikosha) and 5722 (Suwa Seikosha) ended their roles and were retired from production. At this time, Grand Seiko watches were reorganized into two 10-beat series: the automatic 61 Series and the manual-winding 45 Series.

The present example from 1969 is offered in unused, like new old stock condition, and accompanied by its original Grand Seiko presentation box, tag, and clasp. Grand Seiko, with its dual factory system, produced some of the most precise timekeepers of the 20th century. Today, these vintage watches are a tribute to quality, craftsmanship and ingenuity, as well as a reminder that the boundaries of horology are far and wide.

The present lot is further offered with a one-year warranty provided by Grand Seiko Corp of America.