Grand Seiko SLGH005 White Birch Series 9
New Release

Grand Seiko SLGH005 White Birch Series 9

By cazalea · Feb 12, 2021 · 8 replies
cazalea
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Cazalea's 2021 post unveils the Grand Seiko SLGH005, a timepiece inspired by Japan's white birch forests and featuring the new Series 9 case design. This article delves into how this model, powered by the high-beat Caliber 9SA5, represents a new aesthetic and technical benchmark for Grand Seiko.

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Grand Seiko! 
Inspired by the beauty of white birch forests, in new Series 9 case



The new SLGH005 captures the dynamism of the white birch tree forests near the studio in Shizukuishi, where all Grand Seiko mechanical watches are crafted. 

A new Grand Seiko creation powered by a high-beat movement offers a new perspective on the nature of time. The dial is inspired by the slender and strikingly beautiful white birch trees that thrive in northern parts of Japan and that grow in profusion near the Grand Seiko Studio. With its intricate texture, fine detail and delicate subtlety, this new timepiece is a window that opens onto the distinctive natural environment of Japan and the exquisite craftsmanship of Grand Seiko. To look closely at the dial is to experience the exact same feeling that the visitor to these forests receives and to be brought closer than ever to the true and eternal nature of time. 



The overall look of the watch is known as the Series 9 Design and it will be an important part of the Grand Seiko’s signature in the years to come. Its powerful hands and grooved, prominent markers ensure perfect legibility, its Zaratsu polished, distortion-free mirror finish and delicate hairline finish alternate give the case a quiet and harmonious glow. The case has wide lugs and a low center of gravity that ensures that the watch sits easily and securely on the wrist.



The high-beat watch is powered by the revolutionary Caliber 9SA5, which now offers a power reserve of 80 hours thanks to its enhanced energy efficiency. 9SA5 is the latest and finest Hi-Beat 36000 caliber.  First presented in 2020, Caliber 9SA5 incorporates three significant developments, the entirely new Dual Impulse Escapement, the Grand Seiko free-sprung balance, and the horizontal gear train which, together, set a new standard in high-beat horology. While offering advanced functionality, the caliber is slimmer than ever, giving the watch a slender profile of less than 12mm.






Exterior
Case Material : Stainless steel
Glass Material : Box shaped sapphire crystal
Glass Coating : Anti-reflective coating on inner surface
Watch Case Size : Diameter 40mm × Thickness 11.7mm
Length of Band : 190mm
Band Clasp type : Three-fold clasp with push button release

Movement
GS Caliber no. :  9SA5
Movement Type : Automatic with manual winding
Rate Accuracy : +5 to -3 seconds per day (when static)

Functions
Water resistance : 10 bar
Magnetic resist : Equipped
Overall Weight : 178.0 g
Other details :
・Case back with lion emblem
・Date display
・Screw case back
・Screw-down crown
・See-through case back
・Stop second hand function

Approximate Price: $10,000


Check its own page:

grand-seiko.com/global-en/special/whitebirch/slgh005/





About the Grand Seiko Ref. SLGH005

The Grand Seiko SLGH005, known as the "White Birch," is a significant reference within the Evolution 9 Collection, distinguished by its textured dial inspired by the white birch trees near the Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi. This model exemplifies the brand's commitment to nature-inspired aesthetics and advanced mechanical watchmaking, serving as a cornerstone of the contemporary Grand Seiko design language. It represents a modern interpretation of the brand's core principles, offering a blend of visual depth and technical precision that appeals to collectors seeking distinctive design and high performance.

This reference features a stainless steel case housing the high-beat Caliber 9SA5, a revolutionary automatic movement operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour. The case measures 40mm in diameter and is fitted with a dual-curve sapphire crystal, ensuring clarity and durability. The movement provides a substantial power reserve of 80 hours, a testament to its efficiency and advanced engineering. The meticulous finishing of both the case and movement adheres to Grand Seiko's exacting standards, showcasing Zaratsu polishing and intricate movement decoration.

The SLGH005 appeals to collectors who appreciate Grand Seiko's unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative technology. Its distinctive dial texture and the advanced Caliber 9SA5 position it as a notable piece within the brand's lineup, often considered a flagship mechanical offering. While sharing design cues with other Evolution 9 models, the "White Birch" dial provides a unique aesthetic identity, making it a sought-after reference for those desiring a watch that combines technical prowess with a strong connection to Japanese natural landscapes.

Specifications

Caliber
9SA5
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
White
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Dual-curve sapphire

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The Discussion
MY
myles721
Feb 12, 2021

If I wasn’t buying Omegas this might the next choice!

PU
Pun
Feb 12, 2021

I'd be in only if size is under 38 mm thickness under 11 mm and weight under 150 gms. It must give comparative advantage over a Swiss brand at $10,000...

CO
Cookies
Feb 12, 2021

If i called my GS AD now, they may tell me no. If my friend who bought 2 called, maybe they’d give a different answer. I will wait this out.... But honestly, this will sell like hotcakes. It is so mass market likeble, even the hardened collectors will be smittened (secretly or openly)

XI
xiu laba
Feb 12, 2021

Now that's not something we see often these days

AG
agyzace
Feb 12, 2021

Great release and especially movement

GE
George Gently
Feb 12, 2021

I’m really interested in this one.

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