This past week, on a surprisingly cold and breezy day, Grand Seiko USA held its second annual GS9 Experience, an event for members of the GS9 club. Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, just south of the bridge in what was once the Williamsburg Savings Bank, it was an event and celebration unlike others I?ve attended. Dedicated to a single brand, one that only rose to prominence in the US within the last handful of years, the various rooms of the event space, from the cozy bar and gallery, to the massive, domed stage were filled with fans, members of the press, as well as watch industry at large.

Starting at 11am and running nearly 12 hours, the event never stood still. On the lower level, you could find various vitrines with special watches, as well as full cases of watches to try. Watchmakers from the HSNY assembled movements in front of guests as surprisingly delicious hors d’oeuvres made their way through the crowd. A bar on one end had a mix of coffee, Japanese spirits, and beer. And all throughout, Grand Seiko collectors met, mingled, and talked watches.
Studding the day were various panels held in the separate cathedral-style room that once served as the main hall of the bank. From discussing the changing landscape of media in watch press and entertainment to the evolution of Grand Seiko and even a survey of the unique flavor of Japanese style, the panels covered wide ground. This led to a spec...