Introducing Grand Seiko Sport Collection GMT SBGM245 & SBGM247

While currently having a strong focus on nature and seasonal-inspired watches, with some of the most fascinating textured dials available on the market, Grand Seiko is also a brand capable of creating impressively capable sports watches. And among these, the GMT function has always been strong for the brand. Think for instance about the GMT Hi-Beat collection, or the three Spring Drive GMT here. Well, the latter will be joined now by a new series of watches offering the overall same style and proportions, but this time equipped with mechanical movements. Here are the new Grand Seiko Sport Collection GMT Mechanical Watches, the blue SBGM245 and green SBGM247.

These two new models have been shaped in the same vein as the SBGE253, 255 & 257 we’ve reviewed in this article. Quite compact, still sporty, colourful, equipped with reliable movements with classic specifications, with a fixed bezel, these represented up until now the slightly more accessible offering for a sporty GMT watch at Grand Seiko. Of course, if you’re looking for something more elegant, the all-time classic Elegance SBGM221 (my personal favourite) is still an option to consider.

The two new GMT SBGM245 & SBGM247 are thus classic sports watches that are not overdoing it. Focused and built with practicality and robustness in mind, they also add the pleasure of entirely mechanical calibres – as great the Spring Technology is, some still prefer a good-old automatic engine for their watches. The case of these new Grand Seiko Sport Collection GMT watches is in the same vein as the Spring Drive models here, meaning a rather compact and pleasant 40.5mm diameter. Still, with a screw-down crown and a screwed caseback, the case is water-resistant to a solid 200m rating. Classically designed, the steel case is finished with polished and brushed surfaces and comes with an original crown at 4 o’clock. Finally, the bezel of these models is fixed and engraved with a 24-hour scale.

These two new models are inspired by outdoors activities. Colours apart, the dials are identical, with a sunray-brushed pattern. A second 24h scale is replicated on the inner flange (this time with odd numbers) and a two-tone profile for day-night indications. The hands and indexes, applied and faceted, are all filled with Lumibrite. The SBGM245 comes with a nautical-inspired blue dial, which is highlighted by a bright red GMT hand. The other model, the SBGM247, is a more adventurous theme, with its green dial and a bold orange GMT hand.

In terms of functionalities, you’ll find classic central H-M-S and a date positioned at 4 o’clock, in line with the crown. As for the GMT function, we’re talking true traveller’s watch, as the crown will actuate the local time hour hand by one-hour increments (and not the GMT hand as often with more accessible watches with outsourced movements). Both watches are worn on 3-link stainless steel bracelets with a three-fold clasp and push-button release.

Inside the case of the Grand Seiko Sport Collection GMT SBGM245 & SBGM247 is the automatic calibre 9S66, a movement that has been around for some time already and that is used in the Elegance SBGM221. This self-winding calibre runs at 4Hz and can store up to 72 hours of power reserve. It is finely regulated, with a claimed accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds per day (thus surpassing chronometric standards).

Both the SBGM245 & SBGM247 will soon be available as part of the permanent collection and will be priced at USD 5,700. For more details, please visit www.grand-seiko.com.