Strap Guide: Grand Seiko SBGA125 "Blizzard"

Strap Guide written by @gulenissen

Introduction

The Grand Seiko ref. SBGA125, or “Blizzard” as it’s often referred to caught my eye in the Seiko Boutique in Paris almost a decade ago. I entered the store to try on the more famous Snowflake but walked out with a Blizzard.

Back then, Grand Seiko ADs were a rare breed in Europe. If I remember correctly, there was only one official AD in Europe, based in Stockholm, due to the engagement of Stefan Molin (68molle). If you were lucky, the Seiko Boutique in London or Paris might have some models in their windows.

While writing the hashtag #GrandSeiko on Instagram before posting my first GS photo, the (then) joyous platform showed “Less than one hundred posts.”

For the 62GS reissue case, GS decided to go for a 21mm lug width—a design choice that is so sadistic and cruel. But the wonderfully frosted texture dial makes up for the quirky lug width. That’s also how I came in touch with Ken and Delugs.

Anyway, enough nostalgia. Almost a decade later, and after a bunch of scratches on the titanium case and bracelet, the Spring Drive movement is still running perfectly.

From the latest reading, the watch is averaging +/- 0.1s a month (!).

And the SBGA125 is a favorite no matter the occasion. Hopefully, this strap guide might inspire you to style your 62GS.

Matte Himalayan Alligator Signature Strap – The Conversation Starter or The Snow Strap

Back in 2017, I spotted the most elegant lady with the infamous and almost mythical Himalayan Birkin Bag at Tokyo Station. My first reaction was, “That would make a hell of a strap.”

Coincidentally, Ken posted a photo with a Himalayan hide a month later. Within seconds, the order was placed.

Still to this day, the Himalayan strap is the most complimented strap combo of mine. It’s a favourite during snowy days.

Taupe Saffiano Stitchless Strap – The Heat Seeker

The Blizzard does emit a cooler vibe, and sometimes a touch of warmth is needed.

The taupe shade is neutral enough to pair with the colder colour palette of the dial, and the Saffiano texture counteracts the dial texture without stealing the show.

It's perfect with knitwear and neutral-coloured outfits.

Matte Grey Storm Alligator Flank Stitchless Strap – The Perfect Companion

Exotic leather tends to bring a more dressy and formal feeling. A glossy strap brings the highest level of formality, while a matte strap maintains elegance but with a slightly added cool factor.

Strap colour matters. A black or neutral strap centres the attention on the dial, while coloured straps draw it away. A grey strap offers the perfect balance, both in attention and texture.

Grey CTS Rubber – The Summer King

For the longest time, the SBGA125 was the least worn watch during the summer months. We’re all aware of the limitations of the OEM clasps, and finding good options was hard due to the 21mm lug width.

Most options at 20mm triggered my OCD, and the available 21mm straps were either too rugged or didn’t match the refined case shape.

The CTS is going to be staying on the Blizzard all summer long.

Navy Shell Cordovan Slim Strap – The office strap

Any navy strap would complement a steel-heated seconds hand. For the days when an exotic strap would be too loud, the shell cordovan would be a perfect option.

The colour is subdued but explodes when the sun appears. Perfect for the office and post-work dinners. It is suitable with most shades of navy clothing, especially blue ties."