The Evolution 9 SLGA021 translates the essence of the Grand Seiko style into the sturdy 40 mm steel case consisting of a subtle interplay of brushed and polished finishes. The latter are made using the Zaratsu technique, which allows for perfectly polished surfaces with very sharp, particularly reflective lines.
Comfort is accentuated by a slim profile and a low centre of gravity to maintain a more stable presence on the wrist. Water resistance is guaranteed up to 100 metres.
Continuing to draw inspiration from Japanese nature to create dials with evocative textures, here it is the waters of Lake Suwa, located near the Shinshu Watch Studio where the 9R Spring Drive watches are made, that characterise the motif. A motif already introduced two years ago on the limited edition SLGA007 of the Heritage series, celebrating Seiko's 140th anniversary, with a blue background and a texture evoking the waves of the lake. In the Evolution 9 SLGA021, the shade of blue is now darker, inspired, as the brand specifies, by the colour gradations of the lake surface at sunrise.
The movement is the self-winding Spring Drive 9RA2 calibre, an evolution of the 9RA5 calibre. It displays a 5-day power reserve on the caseback side and guarantees an accuracy of ±0.5 seconds per day. The sapphire crystal reveals the beautiful "Shinshu Frost" decoration on the bridges and oscillating weight, a texture that evokes the effect of the frost that forms in winter on the trees surrounding the Shinshu Watch Studio: a beautiful contrast with the diamond edges that reflect the light.
Grand Seiko is doing a great job on the increasingly popular textured dials, starting with the White Birch. And the 'Lake Suwa' Evolution 9 is a watch that combines sporty and robust qualities with an overall classic style that gives it a certain sporty/chic air.
Price10,000 euro.
