INTRODUCING: The Grand Seiko SLGW002
Exclusivity. Luxury. Texture. Natural. Power. Those are the words that describe the newest release from Grand Seiko. The brand is combining some of its favorite elements - a limited-edition release, in 18k rose gold, with a textured dial inspired by nature. Oh, and the watch features Grand Seiko's first new hand-wound high-beat movement in over 50 years. All of these elements combine spectacularly in Grand Seiko's SLGW002.
THE BASICS:
BRAND: Grand Seiko
Model: SLGW002
Case Material: 18k Rose Gold
Case Size: 38.6mm
Water Resistance: 3 bar
Movement: Automatic, Caliber 9SA4
Movement Specs: 80-hour power reserve; 47 jewels; Hi-Beat 36,000
Strap Options: Crocodile strap with three-fold clasp
THE JUICE:
Every element of the SLGW002 was inspired by Japanese culture or geography. In the rose gold SLGW002 (and its Brilliant Hard Titanium counterpart SLGW003), the dial design is inspired by Japan's white birch trees. Those thin birch trees grow in droves where Grand Seikos' 9S mechanical movements are created. Textured and colored like the bark of the trees, the timepiece embraces the dichotomy of both calm and motion. Another Japanese inspiration comes in the form of the movement's design. The movement includes both a delicate finishing to remind owners of Japan's Shizukuishi River and a customized click in the shape of a Japanese wagtail bird.
The design of the SLGW002 was intentional and intelligent. For example, the watch has simple hour indices, minute marks, and hands to keep the wearer's focus on the birch-patterned dial. To match the gorgeous 18k rose gold case, the hour indices are made of gold and the hands match the motif as well. To complete the luxurious look, the exhibition caseback gives a stunning view of the movement.
Speaking of the movement, this is an area of pride for Grand Seiko. Instead of powering the watch with the frequently-used Caliber 9SA5 movement, the brand decided to go in a bolder direction. The new movement started with an idea - to maximize the look, feel, and sound of winding the watch. As anyone with a mechanical watch will tell you, winding the watch has a certain sense of satisfaction that comes with it. Thus, the 9SA4 was born, with a 40% redesign from the 9SA5. Through innovation and a rearrangement of the movement's gear train, the Caliber 9SA4 watch maintains the 80-hour power reserve of its counterpart but with 15% fewer crown rotations. The rearrangement also allows for a perfect view of the movement.
From the 18k rose gold exterior to the redesigned Caliber 9SA4 movement, the Grand Seiko SLGW002 is a visual masterpiece. At the neutral 38.6mm diameter, we would almost say it's made with every wrist in mind... Except only 80 will be produced worldwide. When they become available at Grand Seiko boutiques in August of 2024, we have no doubt they will fly off the shelves.
How much is the SLGW002 Watch?
Price for the SLGW002 watch will come in at $45,000 USD. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option and/or one that is not a limited edition, the SLGW003 may be a good option. As it is made of titanium rather than 18k gold, it retails for $10,700 USD.
Read more about the watch on the brands website here.