Grand Seiko Evolution Introduces Five New Sports Models Under Evolution 9 Collection
Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection welcomes five new Spring Drive sports models, still inspired by the Grand Seiko aesthetic that continues to evolve since first landing back in 1967. These models were preceded by the Hi-Beat 36000 80 hours, the first in the collection, and won the Men’s Watch prize at the 2021 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
The new offerings feature two GMT calibers (SBGE283 and SBGE285), two GMT chronographs (SBGC249 and SBGC251), and one 200m diver’s watch with 5 days caliber 9RA5 (SLGA015). All of which have wider lugs and more robust bracelets incorporated into a case with a low center of gravity for a comfortable and secure fit. The cases and bracelets utilize high-intensity titanium, which is brighter and lighter compared to stainless steel.
The brand has developed a new font for the numerals on the bezel and used sufficient Lumibrite for the hands and indexes for greater legibility, even at night. Its crown guard is safe for both sports activities and everyday use – carefully designed to avoid being caught by sleeves.
Spring Drive has a unique glide motion second hand without a tick across the dial, making it as close as possible to the silent and smooth passage of time.
Looking into the two GMT watches, both have light gray dials with an intricately textured pattern inspired by the Shinshu region’s morning mist in winter – also as a tribute to Shinshu, the home to the studio where all Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches are created. Both will be available starting in August.
The two chronographs will have different colored dials. One will feature a blue dial adjusted to achieve an accuracy rate of ±10 seconds per month to represent the 15th anniversary of the Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph. It features a rotating bezel and displays a third time zone through a GMT hand. Only 700 of them will be produced and will be on the market starting in June. The second chronograph will be available in July, it has a black dial with an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month.
Inspired by Japan’s Kuroshio Current – well-known as the Black Stream – the new 200m diver’s watch is presented in deep black color with a richly textured surface. This fifth watch in the collection is powered by Spring Drive Caliber 9RA5 and offers an accuracy rate of ±10 seconds per month and has a 5-day power reserve. It uses ceramic in the rotating bezel to keep the watch from being scratched. Similar to the GMT watches, they will be available in August.
The five new Evolution 9 Collection Spring Drive watches for sports will be available in Grand Seiko boutiques and retail partners worldwide.
