Grand Seiko: An Ode to Red Fuji

The Aka Fuji, also known as the “Red Fuji” phenomenon, is a breathtaking scene at Mount Fuji that happens at sunrise and sunset as summer transits to autumn. Once or twice a year, clear air and altostratus clouds reflect the red sun rays cast on the mountain to create this scene. Now, a stunning interpretation of this rare, fleeting occurrence is immortalised on the dial of the new Grand Seiko SBGH327 timepiece.

This isn’t the first of Grand Seiko’s nature-inspired watch dials, but it is the first regional exclusive timepiece that commemorates Grand Seiko Asia-Pacific’s first anniversary. The SBGH327 timepiece, a limited edition of 168 pieces exclusive to Grand Seiko boutiques and authorised retailers in Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines, reiterates the brand’s philosophy – “The Nature of Time”. The celebratory note is emphasised by the choice of inspiration, the Aka Fuji: a symbol of happiness and success believed to bridge the gap between nature’s beauty and human aspiration.

Besides reflecting Grand Seiko’s reverence for nature’s beauty, the intricate make of the SBGH327 timepiece also showcases the brand’s commitment to precision and innovation. After all, Grand Seiko is one of the few fully integrated watchmakers globally; every Grand Seiko watch is a testament to the artistry of the skilled artisans who assemble them by hand in dedicated studios in Japan.

The richness of the deep red dial is amplified by the clean look of the stainless steel case finished beautifully with Zaratsu polishing, checked at each stage of the process and for which the dedicated craftspeople have termed ‘one-shot quality’ – work that does not have to be redone. The 39.5mm stainless steel case with a dual-curved sapphire crystal, houses the Hi-Beat Cal.9S85 renowned for precision.

Unmistakably a Grand Seiko, the limited edition SBGH327 timepiece embodies the brand’s elegant simplicity and exacting craftsmanship while being uncompromising on Japanese aesthetics.