The new Grand Seiko Hi-Beat 'Birch Bark' is powered by a new hi-beat manual wound movement and it comes in Grand Seiko’s Brilliant Hard Titanium reference SLGW003 —regular production— or in 18K rose gold reference SLGW002 —in a limited edition of only 80 pieces. These two new watches feature a new dial inspired by the slender white birch trees that thrive in northern parts of Japan and that grow in profusion near the Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi. The exquisite pattern echoes the beauty of the birch tree’s bark with its intricate, multi-dimensional texture.

For this release, the Evolution 9 collection has been further refined to create a watch that instantly communicates the charm, elegance, grace, and subtlety one would expect of a manual wound dress watch. Several aspects of the design have been revisited from the prominent, grooved indexes, which have been slimmed down and elongated, to the multifaceted lugs, which are now narrower and have a smaller surface area. The watch’s center of gravity has been lowered to ensure the comfort and stability for which Grand Seiko’s Evolution 9 creations have become renowned.

The 38.6 mm case —9.95 mm thick— and clasp are made of Grand Seiko’s Brilliant Hard Titanium or 18K rose gold. The Brilliant Hard Titanium alloy is brighter than traditional titanium, causing the case’s Zaratsu-polished surfaces to appear even more radiant and achieving a sparkle of quality and beauty befitting a Grand Seiko dress watch. Brilliant Hard Titanium makes the watch not only light but also highly resistant to corrosion and scratches while commanding a hardness double that of standard stainless steel.

The Movement

Turning the watches over reveals the redesigned hi-beat movement, calibre 9SA4A that makes its debut in a new dress watch belonging to the Evolution 9 Collection, whose design represents a continuation of the Grand Seiko Style that reaches back to the iconic 44GS of 1967. Together with the delicate finishing of the movement inspired by the Shizukuishi River, Caliber 9SA4A not only showcases the very best of Grand Seiko’s mechanical watchmaking capabilities but also captures the beauty of the studio’s natural surroundings.

Providing an impressive power reserve of 80 hours with 15 percent fewer crown rotations —while winding the movement— than those required to achieve the same power for Caliber 9SA5, this movement continues to beat at a high frequency of 36,000 vph. The movement features a power reserve indicator with blued hand on the back.

Caliber 9SA4A was created to provide the ultimate hand-winding experience, with a winding sound and feel demonstrating its craftsmanship and quality. It has a high frequency of 10 vibrations per second, which leads to stable precision, and a long power reserve of up to 80 hours.

On the Wrist & Price

On the wrist, both watches wear slightly bigger than their actual size and more like 39 mm watches. Both watches wear quite light at 59 grams including the strap for the titanium model and 72 grams for the 18K rose gold model. Wearing a Grand Seiko timepiece signifies a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, precision, and attention to detail —values deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.

The intricate movements and exquisite finishing of Grand Seiko reflect the meticulous work ethic and pursuit of perfection synonymous with Japan.

Each glance at the dial reveals a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and innovative technology, encapsulating the essence of the Land of the Rising Sun. Whether strolling through bustling Tokyo streets or admiring serene cherry blossoms in Kyoto, a Grand Seiko on the wrist serves as a reminder of Japan's rich horological heritage and its unwavering dedication to excellence.

Sticker Price USD 10,700 for Brilliant Hard Titanium and USD 45,000 for 18K rose gold. For more info on Grand Seiko click here.