Grand Seiko Elegance Karesansui Reference SBGY027 - inspired by the traditional Karesansui gardens of Japan

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In Japan, where rain is a frequent occurrence at every season of the year, houses have long been built with large roofs and wide eaves that overhang the walls so as to protect the wooden pillars that support the structure. The Grand Seiko Elegance Karesansui Reference SBGY027 design creates areas of shadow and of light that combine to offer many different and ever-changing aspects under the extended roof. Inside, the light is captured by shōji, the wooden frames covered by washi paper that are used for windows, doors and even walls, creating beautiful surfaces where the light is diffused and giving every space a soft and richly varied illumination.

A perfect example of how this passion for light and shadow is translated into the home is Karesansui, the uniquely Japanese style of garden in which landscapes of mountains and water are evoked using only rocks and sand. The illusion of water is expressed in white sand, and even when a dim light shines on the surface, a wave-like pattern emerges from the contrasting planes of light and the shadow formed by the deep grooves.

The dial of this new Grand Seiko watch features a delicately embossed pattern of gently curving lines that radiate out from the center. As the angle and intensity of the light alters, the dial presents an ever-changing aspect, just as does the sand in a Karesansui garden.

The watch features the manual-winding Spring Drive Caliber 9R31. As the seconds hand moves silently, smoothly and gracefully across the textured dial with the unique glide motion of Spring Drive, it evokes the same sense of the natural and serene passage of time that one feels when gazing at a Karesansui.

* This model is also available in the following countries outside Europe; (Israel, Turkey, and African countries)