A big winner at the "Oscars" of watchmaking
At the 2021 Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Geneve, a.k.a. the "Oscars" of watchmaking, there were plenty of prizewinners. One piece in particular, however, stood out.
Grand Seiko, with its "White Birch," won the award for "best Men's Watch". Equal parts aggressive and elegant, the White Birch is indeed a winner.
From its striking dial, to its awe-inducing movement, the White Birch is anything but boring. As one reviewer puts it, "With a new case that dances between Zaratsu polish and hairline brushing, a bolder handset, and remarkably complex dial furniture, [it's] like Grand Seiko turned up to 11."
The technical specifications are impressive. The high beat movement oscillates at 36,000 vph (compared to the standard 28,000), and offers an 80-hour power reserve. More importantly, though, it looks exquisite.
The only apparent drawback of this $9,100 watch would be its bracelet, which is a bit blocky and wide. It also doesn't offer a micro-adjust option. But on the bright side, that gives owners an excuse to experiment with aftermarket straps.
Overall, then, Grand Seiko more than deserves its "Oscar," though the real trophy is the watch itself.
Comments