In 1960, the finest and most experienced watchmakers in Japan were gathered together in Suwa, a little town within the prefecture of Nagano well known for its salt. They were tasked with one challenge: to set a new horological standard for Japanese watchmaking that would encompass technological innovation and refined aesthetics in design and manufacturing. These watchmakers sought to exceed the performance of renowned Swiss watch brands. This was the birth of Grand Seiko.
In the next few years, Grand Seiko would refine its watchmaking with a new set of design aesthetics as well as high-performance calibres, including the first Hi-Beat movements from Japan. Over the next decade, Grand Seiko would introduce the Self-Dater, the 44GS, and 45GS, which defined the brand’s success during this period.
The 44GS remains the brand’s standard in watch design, adhering closely to Taro
