While many Filipinos have been familiar with Seiko watches for decades, it’s luxury equivalent Grand Seiko has only been gaining ground on its Swiss competitors in the Philippine market quite recently. More and more Pinoys now proudly wear their Grand Seiko Snowflake or the SBGA211, the most popular of the brand’s watches in the country—this is according to Edric Dy, Timeplus Corporation Marketing Head, distributor of Grand Seiko in the Philippines.
To be sure, it’s the remarkably simple design that Filipinos have responded to, the subtle nuances like the blue tempered steel seconds hand that glides over the immaculate white face of the Snowflake. It’s also likely the reputation: a Grand Seiko is largely hand made, meticulously pieced together, at par with the world’s esteemed Swiss luxury watches.
To further strengthen its presence in the country, and it’s connection to fans and collectors alike, the Japanese brand recently launched the first GS9 Club in the Philippines. The virtual launch, graced by Grand Seiko Japanese executives and local media, introduced the club to dedicated Grand Seiko watch collectors and admirers. The GS9 Club started in Japan in 2015, eventually expanding internationally to include the United States in 2020.
The club grants members access to Grand Seiko exclusive content, special gifts, events, and factory tours. This includes first dibs on exclusive content like interviews with designers, engineers, and teams behind the company for a Grand Seiko fan’s fuller immersion into the intricate world of the brand.
To qualify as an official club member, interested registrants must own a Grand Seiko watch purchased from one of the brand boutiques or an authorized dealer within the Philippines, on or after March 23, 2017. To register, Grand Seiko owners will need to have the following details: the watch’s model number which can be found on the hang tag or on the watch box, the individual serial number, and the case back number. Date of purchase and name of the authorized Grand Seiko Boutique, Salon, or Mastershop where the timepiece was bought are also be needed. Ultimately, owners must upload a clear photo of their watch and their proof of purchase.
Interested Grand Seiko collectors must register at grandseikogs9club.ph/register/. For more information and updates, visit Grand Seiko’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts @grandseikophilippines.