All Grand Seiko watches are special, but this is marked Special for a specific technical improvement. Model reference 61GS or 6156-8000.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number on the case back we can accurately date this watch to being made in January 1971.
CONDITION
So what makes the Grand Seiko Special, special? Unlike the standard watch, this watch has a hardened stainless steel case, meaning it stands the test of time better. There is one ding on the edge on the left hand side, otherwise the uninitiated may think this has been polished – it doesn’t look polished, it is just the hardened steel case is so much better at still looking crisp. Confusingly the 61GS is the model that replaced the earlier 62GS, and the easiest way to spot the difference is the crown sticks out on the later 61GS, as this one can be hand wound as well as automatically (the 62GS was auto only). Everything on the calibre 6156A is working correctly, including the quick set date and day (in English or Kanji, with Saturday in blue text and Sunday in red). The watch is the one that beats 36.6kbph, or ten times a second, and it is running still well within chronometer specifications (it has an individual movement number on the bridge, so may have been considered for chronometer certification. This model still used the gold medallion on the case back – these are sometimes worn, or lost, but this one is still crisp with just very light wear. The dial is likewise in very good condition. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour or material if preferred. The watch is signed on the dial, case, movement, crown, crystal, buckle and strap.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
This watch has been checked against the Watch Register and has not been reported as lost, stolen or implicated in fraud, and a copy of that certificate will also be included.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 37.6 mm
Width without crown 35.7 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 40.4 mm
Case Thickness 12.2 mm
All sizes are approximate. The watch is photographed on a wrist of 190mm/7.5 inches.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
