The Lion case shape is a fairly new addition to the Grand Seiko stable. While we have seen this watch before in the form of a limited edition in 2019, the Sport Spring Drive SBGA481 “Tokyo Lion” is now part of the brand’s regular production. With its distinct faceted lug design and its large case size of 44.5 mm in diameter is now accompanied by a fresh opaline dial showcasing a textured pattern reminiscent of a lion’s mane.
Initial thoughts
Although Grand Seiko has previously directed a significant amount of attention towards its more formal offerings and intricate features, it is great to see the brand extended its efforts towards the “Lion” style sports watch, particularly with regard to its distinct faceted lug design. Fortunately, this design, initially reserved for limited editions, has now transitioned into a readily available production model.
The primary standout feature lies in the dial, which truly steals the show owing to the manner in which the brand has executed the textured pattern that visually complements the zaratsu polishing on the titanium case. Given that it is standard production, it would be interesting to see the brand further iterate on this captivating design.
The Tokyo Lion is priced at US$10,400, which presents a comparatively lower cost than the 20th anniversary limited edition. When sat next to something like a Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Date, which costs the same, it is clear to see how similar watches can give very different feels. The case and dial finishing of the Tokyo Lion has had far more work put into it than the Polaris, but it is run off the hybrid Spring Drive which can be less attractive than a pure Swiss mechanical movement. While the JLC has slightly more functionality due to its inner rotating bezel, the aesthetics of the Grand Seiko elevate it in our eyes. Considering its impeccable execution and availability, it offers a compelling value proposition.
It is worth noting that the Tokyo Lion is fairly oversized at 44.5 mm, but given that the case and bracelet are made from titanium, this will go some way to making it more comfortable while on the wrist.
The SBGA403G from 2019 made for the 20th anniversary of the Spring Drive movement. Image – Grand Seiko
The Lion in opaline
The Tokyo Lion represents the most recent version of Grand Seiko’s growing sports watch collection. This model draws inspiration from the brand’s iconic mascot, the lion, which also serves as the emblem adorning the inaugural series of Grand Seiko watches introduced in 1960.
The dial displays a textured pattern, drawing inspiration from a lion’s mane, reminiscent of the limited edition from 2019 that marked the 20th anniversary of the Spring Drive movement. However, in contrast to the olive green hue of the limited edition, this iteration has a more striking opaline shade, which accentuates the pattern’s prominence on the wrist.
Beyond the dial colour, the Tokyo Lion maintains its original form from the preceding limited edition with a power reserve indicator between seven and eight, a date window at three and topped off with a 60-minute black ceramic bezel. Housed in an angular titanium case, its design is notable for the faceted lugs and curved sides, which is enhanced by the zaratsu hairline polishing along its case perimeter. The case measures 44.5 mm in diameter and 14.3 mm high.
The Tokyo Lion is powered with the 9R65 calibre, identical to that featured in the “Snowflake” models, this timepiece is equipped with power reserve and date display. The movement features the brand’s Spring Drive technology which is essentially a mechanical movement with an electronically-powered oscillator. Consequently, it upholds a precision level of approximately one second per day and a maximum deviation of 15 seconds per month, establishing a high degree of accuracy in timekeeping.
Key facts and price
Grand Seiko Sport Spring Drive “Tokyo Lion”
Ref. SBGA481
Diameter: 44.5 mm
Height: 14.3 mm
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 200 m
Movement: Cal. 9R65
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date and power reserve indicator
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: Spring Drive
Power reserve: 72 hours
Strap: Matching bracelet with folding clasp
Limited edition: No
Availability: At Grand Seiko boutiques and retailers starting in August 2023
Price: US$10,400
For more information, visit Grand-seiko.com.