Duo of new Grand Seiko models suggest spring has finally sprung

While many may look to other brands, it's fair to say that Grand Seiko sit among the best watches on the market right now. A mix of high-quality finishing and innovative movements make them a top pick against traditional big hitters.

Where many would once have turned to Rolex or Omega, many are now looking to the Japanese outfit as an alternative. Just a few days ago, we saw the release of the Grand Seiko Morning Glow of Hotaka Peaks – and now the brand are back with a duo of new models for users.

The new pair of Sakura models see pastel tones employed on a stunning dial. The Sakura-Wakaba (green) and Sakura-Kakushi (pink) are both inspired by spring blooming flowers like cherry blossom.

They are forged from titanium – which should make for a really lightweight wearing experience – and sit in 38mm cases. The pair are also just 12.9mm thick, which should make for a really comfortable wearing experience.

You'll also find the 9S85 hi-beat automatic movement inside. That offers accuracy down to +5/-3 seconds per day, and features a 55 hour power reserve. That tolerance is better than COSC certified watches, and should help to ensure peak levels of accuracy all day, everyday.

For me, the pink dial is the most comely of the two. I'm a real sucker for a pink dial, and I can definitely see the appeal of that pastel shade on a gently textured piece. It's a real peach, and should fly out of boutiques.

Still, that's not to discredit the green. While green dials have become ever-present on watches in the last few years, I can't recall many with a green dial like this. It's much more gentle and calming than the mix of forest and British Racing green which most tend to opt for.

Both variants are listed at £6,950, and will be available from March 2024.