In early 2021, Grand Seiko unveiled reference SLGH005, the first continuous model powered by the groundbreaking 9SA5 Hi-Beat caliber. SLGH005 pulled visual inspiration from the white birch trees (shirakaba) of the Hiraniwa Plateau in northern Japan, informing the distinct texture and pattern on the watch’s dial. With its powerhouse movement and striking aesthetic, SLGH005 was awarded the Men’s Watch prize at the 2021 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
Grand Seiko’s latest, SLGA009 is another interpretation of the white birch theme, this time evoking the white birch tree forests near Shinshu where Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches are produced. It is a natural companion piece to SLGH005, and together the two watches form the foundation of what will be known as the Evolution 9 Collection.
The number 9 is used in the naming of all modern Grand Seiko calibers and is featured prominently in the new Evolution 9 Collection. 9 in Japanese is pronounced kyu, and it is represented by the kanji symbol 九. But there is another kanji symbol that is also pronounced kyu, and it translates to “the ultimate.” This link between the number 9 and the idea of the ultimate informs Grand Seiko’s naming convention, emphasizing this new collection as the pinnacle of precision, legibility, durability, and beauty.
Though Evolution 9 certainly pulls from Grand Seiko’s past, namely the “Grammar of Design” or “Grand Seiko Style” standard first embodied by the iconic 44GS from 1967, it is undoubtedly a new, forward-thinking approach to Grand Seiko’s contemporary design language.
With SLGA009, the Evolution 9 guiding principle emphasizes sharp defined angles, as well as an eye-catching mix of distortion-free mirror polishing placed alongside hairline finishing for the case. Furthermore, the 40mm stainless steel case has been designed to have a lower center of gravity, and the bracelet has just the right width and depth to ensure that the watch sits easily and securely on the wrist. These details together give the watch a sportier feel and make it ideal for daily wear.
