Grand Seiko Evolution 9 'Night Birch' Hi-Beat SLGH017

The textured dial is inspired by the moonlight darkness of the highland birch forests near to the Grand Seiko studios in Japan.

‘The Nature of Time’ theme features prominently in Grand Seiko watch designs – a Japanese spirituality where each moment is a unique expression unveiled through light and shadow. The watchmakers’ pride in their surroundings is represented from engineering watch movements which emulate the smooth motion of time passing, to creating dials reflecting the beauty of Japanese nature.

This timepiece is within the Evolution 9 Collection; watches created with a contemporary design format based on the recognisable 1967 44GS Grand Seiko Style. This new grammar of design takes the brand’s ideals of beauty, legibility and wearability to new levels with nine design elements, based around the three design principles.

Firstly an “evolution in aesthetics” – the design expresses infinite gradations between light and shadow achieved with polished surfaces.

Secondly an “evolution in legibility” – the powerful hands and grooved, prominent markers ensure excellent legibility.

And thirdly an “evolution in comfort” – the improved crown shape ensures an easier grip.

This high-beat watch is powered by the revolutionary Calibre 9SA5,with a power reserve of 80 hours due to its enhanced energy efficiency. First presented in 2020, Calibre 9SA5 incorporates three significant developments: the entirely new Dual Impulse Escapement, the Grand Seiko free-sprung balance and the horizontal gear train. These three elements together set a new standard in high-beat horology.

Every Grand Seiko features signature high standards of precision, durability and legibility, handcrafted in Japan by Takumi artisans. Grand Seiko: beautifully, precise Japanese watchmaking, from the pinnacle of Seiko Watch Corporation’s in-house ‘manufacture.’