Grand Seiko SLGH027 ‘Mountainscape’ – A 65th Anniversary Evolution 9 Limited Edition
Hi watch fans!
Grand Seiko continues to push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship with the SLGH027 ‘Mountainscape’ Hi-Beat 65th Anniversary Limited Edition. As part of the Evolution 9 Collection, this new release draws inspiration from the rugged beauty of Mount Iwate, capturing the mountain’s striking ridges in a silver-blue textured dial.
Paired with Grand Seiko’s high-frequency 9SA5 movement, an Ever-Brilliant steel case, and a limited run of 1,000 pieces, this release offers a compelling combination of precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Let’s take a closer look.
A Dial That Evokes the Majesty of Mount Iwate
Grand Seiko is known for incorporating nature-inspired textures into its dials, and the SLGH027 is no exception. This silver-blue pressed pattern reflects the landslide ridges of Mount Iwate, a familiar sight from the Grand Seiko Shizukuishi Watch Studio.
The subtle variations in texture create a dial that shifts dynamically with the light, much like previous Grand Seiko designs, such as the Snowflake or the White Birch. The blue tint of the dial represents the purity of the air and water in the region, reinforcing the strong connection between Grand Seiko’s craftsmanship and the natural world.
Evolution 9 Design and Ever-Brilliant Steel Construction
The SLGH027 follows Grand Seiko’s Evolution 9 design language, emphasizing a blend of legibility, comfort, and durability.
Case Material: Ever-Brilliant Steel, offering enhanced corrosion resistance and a brighter finish compared to standard stainless steel.
Case Size: 40mm in diameter with an 11.7mm thickness, giving it a modern yet refined profile.
Finishing: Zaratsu-polished surfaces for distortion-free mirror finishing, paired with brushed elements for contrast.
Crystal: Box sapphire with an anti-reflective coating, adding to the vintage-inspired aesthetic.
Given these dimensions, the SLGH027 should wear well on the wrist, balancing presence with wearability in line with Grand Seiko’s contemporary case proportions.
Hi-Beat Precision: The 9SA5 Movement
Inside the SLGH027 is the Calibre 9SA5, Grand Seiko’s advanced Hi-Beat automatic movement. Operating at 36,000 beats per hour (5Hz), it offers superior timekeeping precision, rated at +5/-3 seconds per day.
Key technical highlights include:
✔ Dual Impulse Escapement for increased efficiency and durability.
✔ Free-sprung balance for improved shock resistance and stability.
✔ 80-hour power reserve, ensuring long-lasting performance.
This movement, developed in-house by Grand Seiko’s engineers, represents one of the brand’s most significant advancements in modern mechanical watchmaking.
Limited Availability – A Collector’s Watch
With only 1,000 pieces worldwide, the SLGH027 will likely appeal to collectors who appreciate Grand Seiko’s distinctive dials and high-beat precision.
Key Specifications:
Case Material: Ever-Brilliant Steel
Case Size: 40mm diameter, 11.7mm thickness
Lug Width: 22mm
Bracelet: Ever-Brilliant Steel
Water Resistance: 10 bar
Glass: Box Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Movement: Hi-Beat Automatic (Calibre 9SA5)
Power Reserve: 80 hours
Accuracy: +5/-3 seconds per day
Limited Edition: 1,000 pieces worldwide
RRP: £9,500 (inc. VAT)
On-Sale Date: May 2025
For more details, visit the official Grand Seiko website.
Final Thoughts – A Future Classic?
The SLGH027 ‘Mountainscape’ is another example of Grand Seiko’s nature-inspired approach to watchmaking, blending modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. The textured dial, high-frequency movement, and Ever-Brilliant steel case make this a standout piece within the Evolution 9 Collection.
With Grand Seiko’s track record of creating sought-after limited editions, could this be a future classic? Only time will tell.
What are your thoughts on the SLGH027? Let me know in the comments!