The first-generation Grand Seiko was produced by Suwa Seikosha for Seiko from 1960 until 1964. It was replaced by the Grand Seiko 57GS in 1964.
Introduced in 1960, Grand Seiko model 3180 was the first chronometer-grade watch produced in Asia. It was certified internally rather than by a body like COSC, but to standards even more stringent than the Swiss organization's. It was a tour-de-force design, with carved lettering on the dial, applied markers, and 18 karat gold plated cases. A few cases in platinum were also produced.
The Grand Seiko case back includes a lion logo signifying the chronometer rating. This lion logo would continue to be used until 1966, when the Grand Seiko logo superseded it.
The Grand Seiko contained a 25 jewel movement oscillating at 18,000 A/h. It was an uncomplicated movement with hours, minutes, and central seconds, but included a hacking feature, not found on other Seikos for decades.
Seiko reproduced this design in 2012 for their 130th Anniversary Grand Seiko models, SBGW039/40.
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