Introducing The 44GS Washi Edition: Grand Seiko’s Ode to Japanese Heritage

Grand Seiko continues its tradition of honoring Japanese craftsmanship, keeping traditional arts alive through the dedication of skilled artisans. One such art is Washi, an 800-year-old paper-making craft. By unveiling the new limited-edition 44GS timepiece, Grand Seiko pays homage to this ancient tradition.

Washi, traditionally made from Kozo (mulberry tree), has been used for centuries in calligraphy, lanterns, and interior décor, such as shoji screens. It captures the essence of subtlety and reflects the traditional aesthetic of Japanese beauty—a quality echoed in the off-white dial of this exquisite watch.

The 44GS features a case crafted from Ever-Brilliant Steel, a premium stainless steel alloy known for its superior corrosion resistance, with a Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number 1.7 times higher than standard steel. The 40mm case, with a thickness of 14.04mm, showcases sharp, clean lines and a mirror-like finish. Its dual-curved sapphire crystal enhances the dial’s clarity, while the watch’s 100-meter water resistance ensures durability and reliability.

The dial is a masterpiece, showcasing a lustrous off-white color that beautifully expresses the texture of Washi paper. Its delicate pattern is complemented by silver-tone applied hour markers and a matching white minute track. Polished hour, minute, and seconds hands further enhance the refined aesthetic, while a sleek silver-tone bezel frames the date window at 3 o’clock. A striking red GMT hand, symbolizing the red fruit of the Kozo tree, adds a vivid contrast to the light-colored dial.

At the heart of this timepiece lies the Hi-Beat 36000 GMT Caliber 9S86. This automatic movement is celebrated for its exceptional precision, with an accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds per day. Operating at a high frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), it ensures smooth seconds-hand motion and precise timekeeping. The Caliber 9S86 offers a 55-hour power reserve and includes a GMT function, making it a practical choice for world travelers.

The watch is paired with a stainless steel bracelet featuring a three-fold clasp, ensuring comfort and security. As a limited edition, this timepiece will be available exclusively at Grand Seiko boutiques and authorized retailers in the Asia-Pacific region starting January 1, 2025. It is priced at $8,000, approximately AED 29,400.

For more information, you can visit Grand Seiko's official website.