Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Spring Drive "Lake Suwa" blue dial steel bracelet 40 mm

The Evolution 9 Style

In 2020, Grand Seiko introduced a new design philosophy called Evolution 9 Style. While it preserves the fundamental principles of Grand Seiko Style, the design philosophy that has guided Grand Seiko since 1967, but adapts them for the new generation by setting new standards in legibility, aesthetics and comfort, while pushing its already impressive designs and technology to new levels. The refinement of the Evolution 9 series includes the deployment of new materials to achieve more sophisticated and comfortable watches.

Inspired by the surrounding nature

Fans of Grand Seiko know the special relationship between the Japanese Manufacture and the Japanese landscape. The brand proves it once again, with this SLGA021, inspired by Lake Suwa, southeast of the Shinshu Watch Studio, where Grand Seiko makes all Spring Drive watches. The dial pattern evokes the surface of this body of water as it moves in gentle ripples in the calm of dawn, stirred by the wind. Coupled with the fluidity of the seconds hand, unique to the Spring Drive movement, the dial evokes the quietness and serenity of time passing. The golden seconds hand and GS initials, recall the sunrise sparkling on the surface of the lake.

The design of this watch, is true to the Grand Seiko style defined in 1967 with the famous 44GS, imbued with a contemporary touch perfectly illustrating the serenity of its imprint but also the strength of its character. Its marked hands and grooved and protruding indexes guarantee perfect legibility. Alternating between Zaratsu polishing, for a mirror finish without the slightest distortion, and brushed finishing, gives the case a discreet and harmonious shine. Achieving this level of finish on such a complex design requires an exceptional level of skill, which can only be executed by hand.

The bracelet features a five-link design, beautifully integrated with the 22mm lugs. This wider bracelet - which tapers at the clasp - contributes to stability on the wrist and the contemporary look of the case.

A poetic caliber

This watch is powered by the Spring Drive 5-day caliber, which inherits all the performance of the caliber 9RA5 launched to celebrate Grand Seiko's 60th anniversary. The height of the switch and the location of the power reserve indicator on the back of the movement reinforce the watch's finesse and elegance while highlighting the handcrafted dial work, a true signature at Grand Seiko.

The subtlety of the movement reflects the Japanese aesthetic tradition for which Grand Seiko is known. The delicate texture of its finish is reminiscent of the frost covering the trees in winter near Shinshu where all Spring Drive watches are designed. The edges of the bridges and the piercings of the rubies have been cut to reflect the light from all angles, while the blued power reserve hand catches the eye.

From a technical standpoint, it offers a comfortable 5-day power reserve, and gives you a perfect flow of time, thanks to its jerk-free second hand. A simply exceptional caliber, with a precision close to 10 seconds per month!