Within the world of vintage Seiko, Grand Seiko – distinguished by the “GS” on dial/crown and gold medallion on its caseback, as seen on this fantastic starburst dialed 1971 Grand Seiko 5645-8000 automatic here – inhabits the top of the food chain, simple as that. Grand Seiko demonstrates well what's so awesome about Japanese craftsmanship, namely, supreme attention to detail and refinement.
 
Grand Seiko – with 51 different models – were simply the most painstakingly designed and exquisite watches made by Seiko, produced by both the Dani and Suwa factories, including the 56GS line here.
 
The 56GS series, often referred to as “Ultra Thin,” included 18 variations - and transitioned from manual wind to automatic beginning in the 1970s. That said, precision level suffered as a result, but reliability level increased with its balance of maintenance, reliability, and precision.
 
The Grand Seiko 56GS series is the final Grand Seiko model Seiko made before production ceased in 1976, a self-inflicted fatality of the quartz crisis. Produced from mid/late 1970 through circa early 1976, based upon the serial number, this is an earlier model produced in late 1971. The GS 5645 is regarded as one of the best combinations of reliability, precision, and maintenance within the original GS lineup.
 
Of note, its relatively uncomplicated to get parts for the 56GS, despite over half a century of time passing since its production - a slightly less fine-tuned calibre 56 movement was also used in King Seiko and Lordmatics. Make no mistake, the GS marked, and still marks, the very best Seiko has to offer, easily on par with the vast majority of what Switzerland has to offer by way of competition.
 
This Grand Seiko comes on a vintage Fuji stainless-steel bracelet and with nylon strap, rugged travel case, and springbar tool.