A Bird's-Eye View: Grand Seiko Unveils New Mt. Iwate Pattern with SLGH027
Grand Seiko continues to expand its Evolution 9 collection with the introduction of the SLGH027, a mechanical timepiece crafted from shimmering Ever-Brilliant steel. This new three-hand sport watch not only impresses with its refined materials but also introduces a fresh, captivating dial pattern inspired by the majestic Mt. Iwate, viewed from above.
The SLGH027 is inspired by Mount Iwate, an active volcano in Japan's Iwate Prefecture. For those familiar with Grand Seiko's watchmaking heritage, the connection is obvious - from the Shizukuishi Studio, where all Grand Seiko's mechanical timepieces are produced, Mount Iwate stands proudly in the distance. This is the second time Grand Seiko has dedicated a dial pattern to this iconic landmark, and the design reflects the mountain’s rugged slopes with radial lines, capturing the raw, natural beauty of the terrain. The soft blue hue of the dial evokes the crisp, clear air of the area, offering a serene backdrop for the bold Grand Seiko markers and the bold hour and minute hands. A slightly curved, dark blue seconds hand adds a subtle touch of contrast, while a date display at 3 o'clock enhances the watch's practicality.
The SLGH027 continues the design philosophy of the Evolution 9 series, which marries Grand Seiko's ideals of beauty, legibility, and comfort. Drawing inspiration from the iconic 44GS model of 1967, the SLGH027 balances the Zaratsu-polished surfaces, which offer a distortion-free, mirror-like finish, with fine hairline brushing. This combination is especially striking on the brand’s proprietary Ever-Brilliant steel, a material that not only has a lighter appearance than traditional stainless steel but also offers remarkable resistance to corrosion. Both the 40mm case (with a thickness of 11.7mm) and the matching bracelet are crafted from this durable material, contributing to the watch's robust yet refined aesthetic.
Inside, the SLGH027 is powered by the self-winding Caliber 9SA5, a high-frequency movement that benefits from Grand Seiko's unique double impulse escapement and dual barrel system, providing an impressive 80-hour power reserve. As is customary for Grand Seiko, the movement is shielded from magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m, ensuring reliable timekeeping in various environments. The intricate finishing of the 9SA5 is inspired by the undulating waves of the Shizukuishi River, which flows near the Shizukuishi studio, and can be admired through the transparent sapphire case back.
Limited to just 1,200 pieces, the SLGH027 will be available starting from May 2025, with a retail price of $10,500.
To learn more, visit Grand Seiko, here.
