Manufacturer: Grand Seiko
Year: 2018
Reference No: SBGH266
Movement No: 286’198
Case No: No. 1/150, 9S85-01F0
Model Name: “Hi-Beat” Special
Material: 18K yellow gold
Calibre: Automatic, cal. 9S85,36000 VPH, 37 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Grand Seiko deployant clasp
Dimensions: 39.5mm Diameter
Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed
Accessories: Accompanied by Grand Seiko Special Inspection Certificate, Limited Warranty card, blue leather presentation box, hang tag, product literature and outer packaging.
Catalogue Essay
Grand Seiko’s caliber 9S was the brand’s groundbreaking entirely new, mechanical automatic movement released in 1998 in two versions, the 9S51 without date, and the 9S55 with date. The movement was fitted with a special hairspring that increased the then power reserve of 40 hours to 50 hours, and at the time was only available in Japan. Today, the caliber 9S is recognized by watch enthusiasts for its quality craftsmanship and technical innovation, found on many of their most desirable models. The present “Hi-Beat 3600 VPN Special” reference SBGH266 was released in 2018 in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the now iconic caliber 9S, as well as the 50th anniversary of Seiko’s first Hi-Beat automatic introduced in 1968.

The "hi-beat" component refers to a watch's fast ticking and highly improved precision timekeeping. When first released in 1968, the Seiko “Hi-Beat” ran at 18,000 bph (beats per hour), which over time evolved to 28,000bph, and finally, like the present “Special” model, at 36,000bph.

The reference SBGH266, fitted with the chronometer certified caliber 9S85 adjusted to +4/-2 seconds/day, is an elegantly designed watch with superior functionality and timekeeping. The aesthetically pleasing engraved dial features a spiral design with “G” and “S” from the Grand Seiko logo, alternating with the symbol for watches by Daini Seikosha, the Seiko division which developed the first “Hi-Beat” movement. The watch’s profile on the wrist is comfortable and well-balanced, with a clean and modern appeal.

The present watch, number one of a limited series of 150 examples, is in virtually new condition, and is sure to be appreciated by both Grand Seiko and chronometer collectors who seek highest quality movements.

The present lot is offered with a five-year Grand Seiko international warranty.

The profit from the sale of this lot will be donated to the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden in Miami, Florida. Its commitment to the environment perfectly aligns with the brand’s “Nature of Time” philosophy and recognizes the importance of the natural world as a source of inspiration and creativity.