I originally picked up this watch from Chrono "like-new" and it came basically new, like it was only worn once before me. I first got into collecting watches when my grandfather passed away and left me a very cheap but sentimentally meaningful Tourneau watch. Over the years Grand Seiko quickly became one of my favorite brands. I had always wanted a Snowflake and I began saving for one and then came across the White Birch on in a video from Watchfinder & Co. I basically immediately decided that I wanted to save a bit more for that instead. I tried it on a few times at Grand Seiko boutiques but was waiting for the right time for myself to get it.
I decided on the Spring Drive since I wanted that unique movement which I think makes Grand Seiko really shine. The Hi-Beat version is beautiful too, but I think the Spring Drive White Birch looks better overall.