Seiko - Grand Seiko - 4522-8000 - Men - 1968

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exceptional Grand Seiko reference 4522-8000 represents the pinnacle of Japanese horological ambition during the late 1960s, embodying the legendary Grammar of Design principles established by Taro Tanaka. Housing the celebrated 36,000 bph manual-winding caliber 4522A, this timepiece offers an extraordinary blend of sharp aesthetics and high-frequency precision. Preserved in remarkable condition, it stands as a testament to Grand Seiko's enduring legacy of craftsmanship and mechanical excellence. Brand: Seiko Model: Grand Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 4522-8000 Serial Number: 8D2280 Movement: Manual winding caliber 4522A, 25 jewels, 36,000 bph Dial: Crisp silver dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Stunning vintage condition, recently serviced Dial and Hands The dial presents in exceptionally clean, near-flawless condition, featuring a subtle, refined silver sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully. The applied typography includes a crisp, polished SEIKO logo at the upper hemisphere and the iconic GS medallion above the printed HI-BEAT 36000 text and Suwa factory emblem. The applied faceted hour markers are sharp and highly polished, featuring a prominent double index at the twelve o'clock position. The framed date window at three o'clock provides excellent visual balance. The polished dauphine hands are impressively sharp with precise beveled edges, complemented by a contrasting black central sweeping second hand that glides seamlessly across the dial. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is a masterclass in Taro Tanaka’s Grammar of Design, displaying brilliant flat surfaces, dramatic angles, and sharp, well-defined chamfers. The transitions between the brushed and polished facets remain distinct, exhibiting only light, honest signs of wear consistent with careful handling over the decades. The polished bezel frames the dial perfectly, while the original GS-signed crown retains its deep, crisp knurling. Turning the watch over reveals a beautifully preserved caseback, highlighted by a pristine gold GS medallion that shows no signs of deterioration. The crystal is clear and free of notable scratches, providing an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath. Movement Inside beats the revered Grand Seiko caliber 4522A, a manual-winding, 25-jewel movement operating at a high-frequency 36,000 beats per hour. The close-up images reveal a meticulously clean movement, with crisp factory engravings and beautifully finished bridges. This movement has been recently serviced to ensure optimal performance. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results show -2-3s/day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a handsome, period-correct black leather strap with precise black stitching, perfectly complementing the sharp, formal aesthetic of the stainless steel case. Condition This timepiece is presented in stunning vintage condition. The dial is immaculately preserved, free from moisture damage or significant aging. The case retains its strong factory geometry and sharp lines, with only superficial handling marks. The gold caseback medallion is fully intact and vividly detailed. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the signed crown, offering a classic and highly wearable vintage profile that commands presence on the wrist through its sharp architectural lines. Remarks The 45GS series is widely considered one of the finest manual-winding high-beat watches ever produced by Seiko. Finding an example with such a well-preserved dial, sharp case lines, and an intact gold medallion is increasingly difficult, making this a prime acquisition for serious collectors of Japanese horology. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the 45GS series succeeded the legendary 44GS, bringing high-beat 36,000 bph technology to Grand Seiko's manual-winding lineup. Designed under the strict guidelines of the Grammar of Design, these watches were created to outshine Swiss competitors in both accuracy and aesthetic brilliance. The caliber 4520 and its date-equipped counterpart, the 4522, are celebrated as some of the most accurate and beautifully constructed movements of their era, cementing Grand Seiko's reputation on the global stage. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SGH-0008