Grand Seiko’s latest offering is unusual – it’s a 30 mm self-winding model specifically conceived for ladies, in contrast to the vast majority of the Grand Seiko catalogue that’s made up of men’s or mid-sized watches. The Heritage Collection 62GS Mechanical 30 mm measures just 10.5 mm thick, making it the brand’s slimmest mechanical model to date. Notably, the new 62GS pair, STGK031 and STGK033, are the first to adopt a case design found on men’s watches, refining it for a smaller format as a ladies model.

Initial thoughts

In my view, the 62GS case stands out as the most appealing configuration in Grand Seiko’s extensive lineup. While it retains a distinctly Japanese design heritage, it remains one of the few Grand Seiko models that blends vintage and modern styles. As an owner of the 40 mm 62GS, I can personally attest to its versatility on the wrist, largely due to its slim case profile.

The new 62GS 30 mm is essentially a scaled down version of the 40 mm model. It stands out for being the first ladies’ models that adapt a design of a men’s watch. In contrast, earlier Grand Seiko ladies watches had a cushion-shaped case that is arguably less appealing since it doesn’t have a distinctive Grand Seiko style.

While Grand Seiko’s continued emphasis on nature-inspired dials may feel somewhat overused, the 62GS 30 mm is priced similar to its men’s counterpart and still represents good value.

62GS

The Grand Seiko catalogue does include mid-sized watches that cater to females, but the 62GS 30 mm is amongst the few ladies-specific models. The new model debuts in two variants. One is pink dial, inspired by “sakura-kakushi,” evokes an early spring scene in northern Japan where cherry blossoms lie hidden under snow. Meanwhile, the grey dial pays homage to “sakura-tsukiyo,” reflecting the beauty of cherry blossoms illuminated by moonlight in early spring. Both dials share the familiar Grand Seiko design, with sword-shaped hands and multi-faceted hour markers.

The 62GS case measures 30 mm in diameter and 10.5 mm in thickness. Water-resistant to 100 m, it is crafted from stainless steel finished with “Zaratsu” flat polishing in the typical Grand Seiko style.

Beneath the exhibition case back is the cal. 9S27, measuring just 20 mm in diameter and 4.49 mm in thickness. Launched in 2019, it’s the smallest and thinnest automatic Grand Seiko model. But the calibre still has the features found in bigger movements, including escapement parts made via MEMS to minimise weight and inertia. Operating at 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz), the movement has a 50-hour power reserve.

Key facts and price

Grand Seiko Heritage Collection 62GS Mechanical 30mm
Ref. STGK031 (pink dial)
Ref. STGK033 (grey dial)

Diameter: 30 mm
Height: 10.5 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 9S27
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 50 hours

Strap: Matching steel bracelet

Limited edition: No
Availability: At Grand Seiko boutiques and retailers starting April 2025
Price: US$6,400

For more, visit grand-seiko.com