In 2019, Grand Seiko released a limited edition sports watch inspired by the lion, which has been the brand's symbol since its founding in 1960. The lion represented Grand Seiko's aim to create the ultimate timepiece—combining precision, durability, and beauty. Now, Grand Seiko brings back this lion-inspired design with the Tokyo Lion Tentagraph SLGC009G, continuing a rich legacy and featuring a new Brilliant Hard Titanium angular case—use of this material for the first time in the Grand Seiko's Sport Collection—, a brown lion gold dial resembling the animal’s mane flowing in the wind, and a new GS rubber strap that is made of an advanced material with more than twice the tensile strength of silicone.
The strong and angular 43 mm case—15.6 mm thick— made of Brilliant Hard Titanium is slightly reminiscent of the case on the Royal Oak Concept. Our apologies, but we have to call a spade a spade. Brilliant Hard Titanium is a specialized alloy that possesses a brighter finish than conventional titanium, allowing the expertly crafted hairline-finished and Zaratsu-polished surfaces to exhibit an even more radiant appearance. This material choice elevates the watch's commanding presence while maintaining comfortable wearability.
Drawing inspiration from nature's most majestic predator, the watch's dial features an intricate pattern reminiscent of a lion's mane flowing in the wind. This artistic interpretation is complemented by three distinctive three-dimensional sub-dials at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions, inlaid with precision onto the main dial. The design achieves both aesthetic harmony and enhanced functionality.
Things to Know About the Watch
For this new model, the case has evolved from previous lion-themed timepieces, with more pronounced hairline-finished surfaces that now extend across a broader area, encompassing both the lugs and bezel. The chronograph pushers have been redesigned for improved ergonomics, with a robust construction that delivers satisfying tactile feedback when activated.
The three-dimensional architecture of the sub-dials reduces the distance between markings and hands, significantly improving legibility—a critical attribute for any sports timepiece. The main dial features diamond-cut indexes designed to evoke the sharp claws of a lion, with surfaces engineered to beautifully capture and reflect light. These indexes have been intentionally heightened and contoured to accommodate generous applications of Lumibrite, ensuring optimal readability regardless of ambient lighting conditions.
The Strap
Complementing the case is a newly developed rubber strap with impressive technical specifications. Boasting a tensile strength nearly 2.7 times greater than typical silicone straps used in other Grand Seiko models, this purpose-built component offers exceptional durability. Its rich brown hue harmonizes perfectly with the textured dial. The strap's reverse side features a subtle motif inspired by a lion's paw—a playful detail visible only to the wearer. Working in concert with the subtly curved case back, this innovative strap design ensures both comfort and stability on the wrist.
The new Grand Seiko Tokyo Lion Tentagraph SLGC009G is water resistant to 200 meters, and anti-magnetic up to fields of 4,800 A/m.
The Movement
Powering the Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph SBGC253 is the in-house Hi-Beat 36,000 chronograph automatic calibre 9SC5 with an accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds per day. The name "Tentagraph" elegantly encapsulates the key attributes of this movement with ten beats per second for precise timekeeping. The beauty of the movement’s finishing is visible through the display case back.
On the Wrist & Price
On the wrist, the Grand Seiko Tokyo Lion Tentagraph SLGC009G wears surprisingly well despite its 43 mm case diameter. A great new-looking watch that brings an ultra-sporty look to the GS lineup.
The angular Evolution 9 design presents a commanding wrist presence while remaining comfortable thanks to thoughtfully downward-curved lugs that help the watch hug the wrist rather than sit top-heavy. The strap integration is seamless, continuing the angular design language with an angular tapering structure that conforms well to the wrist.
Even though the Tokyo Lion Tentagraph wears slightly smaller than its actual size, those with wrists smaller than 7 inches might find it approaches their comfort limit.
Sticker Price USD 16,400. For more info on Grand Seiko click here.
