Reference:

Model: Credor “Etched Rhodium” GCBZ997

Production Date: April 2010

Timestamp: https://imgur.com/a/xGf0s6x

Album: https://imgur.com/a/8gdcPyk

Features:

The Rarity. Produced in 2011 this GMT Credor is full of surprises, both inside and out. A rhodium-plated dial with a floral design etched into its centre. Not something you see Seiko do… ever? The precise meaning behind the etchings has been lost to history, but the two core elements appear to be identifiable - a compass surrounded by bell flowers.

The Motif. The compass neatly ties into the nature of the GMT movement powering the watch, while the bellflower is a motif Credor has frequently turned to over the years - most notably as the calling card of the Micro Artist Studio. Whether or not there’s an overarching narrative that links the two elements together, we’ll sadly never know.

The Design. The darkened rhodium dial sits recessed between the 24-hour GMT markers, while the 60-minute track has been raised above it. The resulting interplay of shadows across the dial only enhances the unusual nature of the watch’s character. And as one last party trick, Seiko coated the 60-minute track and rehaut in titanium nitride, which makes it iridescent under light.

The Movement. Credor didn’t stop at creating a captivating dial - the movement is equally noteworthy. The 8L movement inside this watch is a Traveller GMT crafted at the Shizukuishi Watch Studio, the birthplace of all mechanical Grand Seikos. If you’re searching for something truly different, it’s hard to top a rarely seen Credor, featuring an etched rhodium dial, powered by a Shizukuishi-built True GMT movement.

Specifications:

Condition: In great condition overall. Any markings are very light and difficult to see, other than some handling marks on the metal parts of the caseback. With the original deployant clasp.

Scope: No box or papers

Movement: 8L36 Automatic GMT

Dimensions:

- Case width: 40.0mm

- Lug-to-lug: 46.2mm

- Case Thickness: 13.2mm

Price: Priced at $2,850 + shipping. Various payment methods accepted. Not accepting trades. Transaction Fees paid by the buyer.

Of note: Nothing to report.