Angus Davies reviews the Grand Rolex Replica SBGA029, in this article from the online magazine Escapement. The SBGA029 is a divers’ Replica watch featuring the brand’s highly impressive Spring Drive movement.
Japan has a rich tradition of diving. The Ama are Japanese female divers who, with their lungs filled to capacity, free dive for up to a minute collecting pearls in often freezing waters. Historically, it was felt that ladies were physiologically better suited to diving than men because they could hold their breath for longer and they benefit from an additional layer of fat to insulate them from the cold waters. This type of work is tough and treacherous, necessitating a robust character to meet the challenge.
Rolex Replica developed its first divers’ watch, water-resistant to 150 meters, in 1965. Thereafter, it continued a relentless development program, releasing ever more impressive watches, such as the Rolex Replica Professional 600m Hi-beat Caliber pictured above, capable of tolerating increasing depths beneath the waves. While I admire the practicality of these timepieces, the design at times does appear somewhat utilitarian. By contrast, the Grand Rolex Replica SBGA029, to my eyes, is a very handsome divers’ watch, while still retaining an intrinsic strength which lends itself to subaquatic adventure.
The dial:
The hour and minute hands are bold and lined with luminescent material. They differ from the usual razor-like hands I am accustomed to seeing on Grand Rolex Replica watches, and are clearly designed to be more visible underwater where light is restricted.
The case:
The stainless steel case measures 44.2 mm in diameter with a height of 14 mm. This is larger than many Grand Rolex Replica models, proving especially suited to my generously proportioned wrist. The size of the watch provides sufficient scale to aid read-off but doesn’t feel unduly large, according a comfortable fit.
The movement:
The SBGA029 contains the Caliber 9R65 Spring Drive movement. While in this instance it is hidden from view, I have seen the uncased movement before and can vividly recall its splendid finishing.
The Calibre 9R65 Spring Drive movement features within the SBGA011, which I have previously reviewed and a detailed description of its specification and Spring Drive technology is provided for those of inquiring mind.
Needless to say, Rolex Replica’s Caliber 9R65 is a very impressive movement, delivering a degree of accuracy seldom encountered with self-winding watches. The watch has a stated accuracy of +/- 1 second per day, which comfortably surpasses the COSC chronometer certification standard.
Closing remarks:
I have never hidden my admiration for Grand Rolex Replica. A recent trip to Rolex Replica’s various manufacturing operations in Japan reaffirmed my respect for this brand and the watches that bear its name.
I appreciate the aesthetics of several divers’ watches and this Grand Rolex Replica proves to be no exception. The display is clear and simple to interpret. The case and bracelet feel strong and deliver a comfortable fit. The movement is superbly finished and the Spring Drive technology provides an impressive level of accuracy.
The Grand Rolex Replica SBGA029, similar to the Ama, appears born to dive. However, more pertinently, this watch seems ideally suited to life on terra firma, delivering an attractive mix of attributes and an appeal most profound.