Grand Seiko SBGV245 "Grey Beast"
Model: Grand Seiko SBGV245 “Grey Beast”
Overview:
Grand Seiko SBGV245, better known amongst collectors as the “Grey Beast,” one of the most distinctive and unconventional watches to emerge from Grand Seiko’s Sport Collection.
The SBGV245 takes a noticeably different approach from the traditionally polished and dress-oriented aesthetic associated with Grand Seiko. Its horizontally brushed grey dial, bold luminous markers, rugged case construction and original grey Cordura strap give the watch an almost industrial appearance while retaining the exceptional finishing and precision expected from Grand Seiko.
Since being discontinued after a relatively short production period, the Grey Beast has developed something of a cult following amongst collectors and has become considerably more difficult to find, particularly in well-preserved condition with its original accessories. Contemporary Japanese dealer coverage indicates the model was released in July 2018 and discontinued around early 2021.
History:
The SBGV245 was introduced in 2018 alongside the black-dial SBGV243, following the limited-edition blue SBGV247 produced in celebration of the 25th anniversary of Grand Seiko’s 9F quartz caliber.
These watches represented an unusually rugged interpretation of Grand Seiko design. The case incorporated a new structure derived from Grand Seiko’s Grammar of Design philosophy, while substantial LumiBrite applications, 200-meter water resistance, enhanced magnetic resistance and a screw-down crown made the SBGV245 considerably more capable than the typical Grand Seiko quartz dress watch.
It was also the first generation of Grand Seiko watches to utilize a Cordura fabric strap, reinforcing the utilitarian character that ultimately earned the SBGV245 its “Grey Beast” nickname.
Specifications and Condition:
Overall: Excellent Condition
Case: Excellent
Crystal: Clean
Dial: Clean
Movement: Excellent
Bracelet/Strap: Original Grand Seiko Cordura Strap
Includes: Original Grand Seiko Box and Manual / Papers
Status: Discontinued
Movement:
Grand Seiko Caliber 9F82
High-Accuracy Quartz
Dimensions:
40.0mm Case Diameter
47.1mm Lug-to-Lug
11.8mm Thickness
20mm Lug Width
Closing Note:
The SBGV245 is one of the more unusual modern Grand Seikos and a watch whose reputation has arguably grown considerably since its discontinuation. Instead of the polished indices, restrained dials and dressier character typically associated with 9F Grand Seiko models, the Grey Beast applies the same obsessive approach to finishing and high-accuracy quartz watchmaking to a genuinely rugged sports watch.
Its specifications back up the appearance. The combination of a screw-down crown, 200-meter water resistance, enhanced magnetic resistance, substantial LumiBrite and Grand Seiko’s ±10-second-per-year 9F82 makes the SBGV245 one of the more practical watches produced during this era of Grand Seiko.
The model was also produced for a surprisingly short period. Japanese dealer records place its release in July 2018 and discontinuation around early 2021, giving it a production life of only approximately two and a half years.
That short production run, combined with its unmistakable grey aesthetic and unusual position within Grand Seiko’s catalogue, has helped the Grey Beast become something of a phenomenon amongst collectors. This example remains in great condition and retains its original Grand Seiko box, manual/papers and original Cordura strap, making it a particularly attractive example of an increasingly sought-after discontinued Grand Seiko.
