What sets these two models apart is the dial color: the SBGW297 presents a serene cream dial, while the SBGW299 offers a deep, dark blue dial. Both dials feature a radiating pattern that captures the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics, reminiscent of folding fans, which adds a layer of depth and intrigue to the watch's appearance. This pattern complements the multifaceted, zaratsu polished indexes and hands, ensuring legibility and well, that typical brilliance associated with those Grand Seiko hands and indices. Between both here I have a slight preference for the lighter colored dial, but to each his own of course.
The SBGW297 and SBGW299 are manual winding watches that showcase Grand Seiko's commitment to precision and craftsmanship. Each model features a stainless steel case, a box-shaped sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, and a three-fold clasp with push-button release. The dimensions are thoughtfully considered, with a diameter of 36.5mm, making them suitable for various wrist sizes without compromising on presence. With a case diameter of 36,5mm, a lug-to-lug of 42.7mm, and a thickness of just 11.6mm this is perfection for my, 16.5cm wrist.
At the heart of these timepieces is the Caliber 9S64, a manually wound movement known for its reliability and power reserve of approximately 72 hours. This movement ensures that the watches maintain a high level of accuracy, with a mean daily rate of +5 to -3 seconds per day, making them reliable companions for daily wear. For daily use, I wind it around 20 times every morning, depending on how much coffee I had earlier that day, and that has me set. If starting from an empty power reserve, winding around 60 times seems to be more than sufficient, with a clever mechanism there is also no risk of overwinding the watch and you can easily feel when it is time to stop winding the watch.
Water resistance is rated at 10 bar, and the watches also feature magnetic resistance, ensuring durability in various environments. This makes for a wonderful one-watch collection or indeed an only-watch collection.
On the wrist, the SBGW297 and SBGW299 exude an elegance that is both understated and profound. The reduced case size enhances wearability, making these watches perfect for both formal and casual occasions. The intricate dial patterns, alongside the Zaratsu-polished, distortion-free case finish, encapsulate Grand Seiko's dedication to craftsmanship. These watches are not merely timekeepers but pieces of wearable art that reflect the meticulous standards of Grand Seiko. On my wrist, I couldn’t be happier with this specific form factor. I am a huge fan of the 44GS design, and this smaller diameter works on my wrist I have no doubt this will open up the 44GS universe to a much wider range of wrist sizes. The bracelet and claps feel nice on the wrist, and both these watches would of course also look great on a leather strap if you want to switch things up.
Whether you're drawn to the calm elegance of the cream dial or the profound depth of the dark blue dial, both watches offer a unique opportunity to wear a piece of art that reflects the meticulous standards of Grand Seiko. Their slim profile, exquisite dial design, and robust movement make them standout pieces in my book. Add to that the excellent pricing on both of these, and I find these rather hard to beat!