When Grand Seiko revealed the first watch to mark the 55th anniversary of the 44GS case late last year, I figured 2022 would be all about what is arguably their signature case shape, and we?d see a slew of new watches throughout the year in this highly angular platform, which is perfect for showing off the brand?s Zaratsu polishing, and gives you an immediate sense of what the brand?s overarching aesthetic is all about. We got another 44GS release a few months back (remember these") and I figured my assessment was just about spot on. I didn?t count on what Grand Seiko did this week, however, which is an extremely welcome surprise, and hopefully a sign of things to come, either later this year or well beyond. 

The SBGW289 has the unmistakable lines of the 44GS case, but in a considerably smaller size. The modern 44GS case measures an even 40mm in diameter and has a tendency to wear tall (but compact) thanks to the dramatic beveling on the caseband. This new watch, a limited edition of just 1,200 pieces, comes in at a vintage inspired 36.5mm, which should create a very different impression on the wrist. It?s paired with a hand wound movement (Grand Seiko?s 9S64) and seems positioned at a kind of midway point between ?dress watch? and ?daily driver.? Because of the highly polished elements of the 44GS, it always gives off an heir of formality, but it doesn?t take long on the wrist to realize how robust the case is, and how suitable these watches are for everyda...