BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
Since it got established as an independent brand and started expanding globally, Grand Seiko has established itself as one of the key players in the luxury watch market. Last year the brand made the horological world take note when it revealed its latest cutting edge in-house automatic movement 9SA5 to commemorate its 60th anniversary. Initially packed inside the limited-edition watches; the SLGH002 and SLGH003, Grand Seiko has now revealed the first-ever non-limited production model powered by the 9SA5. So, without further ado let’s have a quick look at the stunning SLGH005.
One of the things that separate Grand Seiko watches from their counterparts is their finely executed dials and the SLGH005 is no exception. Inspired by the white birch trees that surround Grand Seiko’s Shizukuishi studio where the SLGH005 is made, the dial on this watch features a visually compelling intricate texture. Placed on top of the dial are applied markers that are exceptionally finished and add a sense of depth to the dial. The markers have a unique three-dimensional design with multiple facets to enable some great light play. The imposing hour and minute hands complement the markers well and the stick-style heat-blued second’s hand brings a dash of color to the otherwise monochrome dial. A nicely bordered date window is placed at the 3 o’clock position and a minute track runs on the outer periphery to make time reading easy and precise.
Crafted from stainless steel, the case is another aspect where the SLGH005 shines. Measuring 40mm wide and having a thickness of around 11.7mm, the case design is inspired by the famous 44GS case found in grand Seiko’s from the 1960s. It showcases a mix of finely brushed surfaces and mirror-like polished surfaces generated using the Zaratsu polishing technique. There is a threaded crown at 3 to ensure 100 meters of water resistance. Also, the lugs have been drilled to make strap changing snappy.
Like the front, the rear of this watch is also a visually engaging experience. The recently developed 9SA5 is not only technically capable but is also beautifully finished. The movement operates at 5 Hz, comprises 47 jewels, and offers an autonomy of around 80 hours. It features a dual impulse escapement for better energy transfer efficiency, a horizontal architecture for a slim profile, and a free spring balance among other things. On the decoration front, you get to see everything from perlage to Geneva stripes to blued screws.
The new Grand Seiko SLGH005 is accompanied by a robust-looking brushed stainless-steel bracelet and will retail for USD 9,100.
