This Watch Is INCREDIBLE - Grand Seiko SBGA413 Review - The Snowflake Alternative (2020)

Following my review of the SBGH269, I knew I needed to cover more Grand Seiko models in the future. When it came to following up that previous review, I knew I wanted it to be a spring drive, but then I locked eyes with this SBGA413, a model that I expected to not reach a level of dial finishing of that of the Snowflake, but after spending a couple weeks with it, found it greatly surpassed my expectations.

Check out some of my latest videos:

[bartglover]

I have a Grand Seiko for about 5 years now & I just can’t stop admiring its elegant simplicity. A Snowflake Springdrive is my ultimate goal. Thanks for your efforts, Well Done.

[nAttieNR]

Just bought one for my dad. Can’t wait to give it to him. What a spectacular dial. One of the most unique dial from GS that I had came across. The watch is so light that you probably wont notice that you wearing one. Amazing finishing

[zackrz]

The finishing on that dial is just mind boggling. What beautiful watch.

[sirciphers]

Videos don't do it justice. I saw this in a seiko boutique and it was literally stunning with how each angle of light reflects off the dials surface. Magnificent.

[dannymartial]

This, for me, is exactly on par with the Snowflake. I'd have a hard time choosing between the 2, but I'd probably go with the Shunbun simply because it's more unique looking.

[GeorgeChar]

Thanks for those mouth-watering macro shots! This is definitely a timepiece that deserves them!

[darthsteevy]

This is the definition of elegance and it’s so polarising with the amazing dial

[larryleyba]

Grand Seiko has to be the most elegant watch brand in the world. Everything they put out is gorgeous.

[MrKeaneNg]

I finally broke into the Grand Seiko with this watch. This review helps me with the confidence it was the right grand seiko to buy.

[robs]

This has to be the most beautiful watch I’ve ever seen. Makes you appreciate other brands besides Rolex

[wc]

On every macro shot I'm always waiting for that cringe moment when some flaw stands out. These watches just..don't..have..any. Excellent stuff Teddy. Agreed on all points. Get that power reserve to the back, get rid of the case back screens, and get some micro adjustments on the clasp. Even with those issues, I would wear this watch all day.

[morningwaves]

Just got the Snowflake last week and the SBGA413 looks just as beautiful. The Spring Drive watches are unique and superb on several levels: the flawless finishing, the lightweight high intensity titanium, beautiful dials, scratch resistance of the titanium, the accuracy of the spring drive and the relative bargain in terms of cost. Will likely add more Spring Drives to my collection and would love to see more Grand Seiko reviews from you.

[bahnfire]

I went in to the GS Boutique in Miami last month intending to buy a Snowflake, but walked out with the 'Spring' watch because it wore better on my wrist at 40mm. The dial and bezel less case had a bit more flair. I had my reservations about the shade of pink. In daylight it’s more pearlescent than anything.

[bw]

I'm scrolling through these comments and notice common threads... outstanding shots and knowing who you are truly making videos for. Again, thank you for your hard work and commitment to quality.

[johngeorge]

Grand Seiko becoming more well know and getting such well deserved high praise is making them less of a hidden gem brand. I just looked up the snowflake and it looks like the price has gone up $1, 080 in the last 6 months. I'm going to have to pull the trigger quick at this rate.

[molnie]

Grand Seiko kills me every time with their dials! Good vid! Cheers

[dougmichael]

Bought my snowflake about 3 weeks ago. Really considered waiting for this one, but the snowflake just spoke to me. Absolutely in love ❤️

[Tnartn]

I'm a total sucker for GS' unique dials! Thank you once again for shedding light on some underappreciated watches from major watch brands like GS and Omega. You know your audience so well and provide well informed alternatives to mainstream timepieces.

[grodrigues]

I was buying my first luxury watch and deciding between this and the SBGA211 (snowflake) was impossibly hard. The dealer looked at me like I was crazy and I swapped them on and off my wrist, moving into the sunlight. Ultimately, I went with the Snowflake because of a slight (slightest) preference against the raised Crystal on this watch. Both are gorgeous, and I could see myself going back for this in a few years if it's still around.

[MarcoTrova-gohf]

Dear Teddy,
I fallen in love with this watch the first time I had the chance to put my eyes and fingers on it at the AD in Florence - Ponte Vecchio. A few week ago I finally surrended and now my wrist is married with the Shunbun...It's really hard to resist to its ever-changing dial and to the unmatched finishing of the case and bracelet.
It is true that videos and pictures are not fair with Grand Seiko and its secret beauty that is unveiled only with the hands-on experience. But this is also part of the success of Grand Seiko!

Thank you for your great reviews and passion. I'm happy to be now oart of the GS9 community and hope to have the chance to pair the Shunbun with another gem from their gorgeous production.

For example my first approach to the GS world was the "Lake Suwa"...but it was too late as this limited series was already out of stock!

What is your opinion on Lake Suwa?

I hope the lake Suwa dial will be re-used by Grand Seiko so that I can complement my GS collection!

Happy New Year from an italian "TB Fan" !!!