Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Hi-Beat SLGW003 Watch

Grand Seiko's Evolution 9 draws its inspiration from the brand's 44GS model from 1967. The SLGW003 continues this tradition with a new hand-wound Hi-Beat movement. Dubbed the Caliber 9SA4, it uses a Dual Impulse Escapement and two barrels to achieve a power reserve of 80 hours. Special attention was paid to the feel and sound one hears when winding the movement, a process that's visible through the sapphire crystal case back. The exhibition back also allows for views of the power reserve indicator and the movement's Shizukuishi River-inspired finish. Up front, the textured dial recalls the birch trees of northern Japan, with prominent, grooved indexes and few distractions. On the SLGW003, the case and crocodile strap clasp are crafted from a proprietary titanium alloy; the SLGW002 swaps this material for 18k rose gold and is limited to 80 units.