When we’re talking about Grand Seiko, it’s usually the dial that steal the headlines, but that’s not the case with the SBGH349 ‘Icefall’ Hi-Beat 1998 Revival. It has exactly the same dial as the SBGH347 that was released back in September. What makes the new edition different is that the steel case has been replaced by titanium.
The new titanium case is larger than its steel counterpart, measuring 40mm x 12.95mm. However, where titanium really excels compared to steel is in its strength-to-density ratio. What that means is you can achieve the same degree of resilience and strength from a titanium watch case at a much lighter weight. In fact, titanium is approximately 45% lighter than steel. Plus, thanks to Grand Seiko’s particular high intensity titanium, it remains nice and tough.
Grand Seiko don’t publish their watches weights so it’s difficult to numerically express the impact of this material change here. In principle though it means the ‘Icefall’ Hi-Beat 1998 Revival Titanium is much easier to wear for long periods of time without fatiguing the wrist. Whether that’s a working day or an evening’s soirée.
While the case is the updated feature of this watch, we should still touch on the dial. It’s inspired by the concept of an ‘Icefall’, a rapidly flowing portion of a glacier with a high proportion of crevasses. The pale blue tone with crevasse-like texture feels particularly wintery – it would definitely be worthy of inclusion in our Best Ice Dials article.
Beneath the icy surface is the hi-beat 9S85 automatic calibre. It has a power reserve of 55-hours and operates at a 5 Hz frequency, helping to ensure impressive accuracy of +5/-3 seconds per day. It’s the same movement as is found in the steel edition of the watch.
As you might expect from the upgrade in materials, the Grand Seiko ‘Icefall’ Hi-Beat 1998 Revival in titanium is a touch pricier than its steel counterpart, £6,650 compared to £5,950. That’s an increase of £700, which I think is a solid representation of the value difference between the materials when it comes to high-end watchmaking.
Price and Specs:
More details at Seiko Boutique.
