Grand Seiko SBGH368vsVario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound

The Grand Seiko SBGH368 is praised for its aggressive styling and textured copper-pink dial, inspired by cherry blossoms. Reviewers highlight its 38mm 18k rose gold 62GS case, featuring Zaratsu polishing, as a standout element. The watch is powered by the Hi-Beat Caliber 9S85 movement, which is regulated to -3/+5 seconds per day and offers a 55-hour power reserve. It also features 100m water resistance. One reviewer notes that the brown crocodile strap, while handsome, would ideally be replaced with a water-resistant option given the watch's 100m water resistance. There is also a question raised about whether a movement with a longer power reserve could have been utilized. The Grand Seiko SBGH368 retails for $31,200. Overall, reviewers consider the Grand Seiko SBGH368 a favorite gold-cased Grand Seiko, with its rose gold case and cherry blossom dial described as an exceptional combination.

Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound for its detailed, multi-layered dial featuring applied numerals and guilloche patterns, its elegant Art Deco-inspired design, and the enjoyable winding feel of the Miyota 6T33 handwound movement, often visible through an exhibition case back. The 38mm case size is considered a positive by many, and the included leather strap is noted for its comfort and quality. Some owners find the differing fonts on the sub-dials and perimeter less appealing, and the absence of a constant seconds sub-dial is flagged as a drawback. On balance, owners rate the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound highly for its distinctive Art Deco styling and detailed dial at its price point.