Grand Seiko SBGY011vsVario Futurist

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Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Grand Seiko SBGY011 at true scale

SBGY011

Vario Futurist at true scale

Futurist

Diameter

40mm

39mm

Lug-to-Lug

46.2mm

lowest

48mm

Thickness

10.5mm

10mm

lowest

Water Resistance

100m

100m

Power Reserve

72h

n/a

MSRP

$8,800

$648

lowest

Movement

Grand Seiko 9R31

Miyota 9039

Case

5 specs
Diameter
40mm
39mm
Thickness
10.5mm
10mm
Lug-to-Lug
46.2mm
48mm
Lug Width
19mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
Crystal
Sapphire
Sapphire (faceted)
AR Coating
Yes
n/a
Dial Color
n/a
Purple

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Grand Seiko 9R31
Miyota 9039
Type
Spring Drive
Automatic
Power Reserve
72h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$8,800
$648
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Reviews

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Grand Seiko SBGY011

Owners widely praise the Grand Seiko SBGY011 for its stunning, subtly textured white dial inspired by daybreak, with one owner describing its glide as very smooth and the dial itself as stunning in person. The Spring Drive movement is also a significant draw, with one owner noting its appeal. The watch features a 40mm stainless steel 44GS case and a 72-hour power reserve with an accuracy of +/- 1 second per day. One reviewer expressed a preference for a bracelet over the included crocodile strap. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Grand Seiko SBGY011 highly for its captivating dial and the refined Spring Drive movement.

Vario Futurist

The Vario Futurist is praised for its retro-futuristic design, inspired by the 1970s, featuring a unique faceted sapphire crystal and an angular tonneau case that catches the light significantly. Owners note its 39mm case offers more wrist presence than expected. One reviewer flags the recessed crown as difficult to operate. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Vario Futurist highly for its bold, visually intriguing design at an affordable price.

From video reviewers

The faceted sapphire crystal and distinctive case finishing are praised. The crown placement and sharp case edges are noted as drawbacks. Reviewers disagreed on the watch's overall value proposition.