Grand Seiko has unveiled the SLGH027 “Mountainscape,” a limited-edition timepiece celebrating the brand’s 65th anniversary. Featuring the Hi-Beat 9SA5 automatic movement, this watch is part of the Evolution 9 collection and showcases a modern design with intricate details. Inspired by Mt. Iwate, the watch combines technical excellence with aesthetic refinement, making it a standout release for 2025.

The SLGH027 is the latest addition to Grand Seiko’s Evolution 9 series, a line known for its modern interpretation of the brand’s “Grammar of Design” philosophy. The 40mm case is crafted from Ever-Brilliant Steel, a proprietary alloy that offers superior corrosion resistance and a brighter finish compared to traditional stainless steel, like we have seen in modern releases such as the SBGA 503 "Ginza edition" Gold dial.

At 11.7mm thick, the watch is slim yet robust, featuring a box-style sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating and a screw-in caseback with a sapphire display window. Water resistance is rated at 10 bar (100 metres), making it suitable for everyday wear.

The highlight of the SLGH027 is its silver-blue dial, which features a radial texture inspired by the ridges of Mt. Iwate. This pattern, reminiscent of landslides on the mountain’s surface, radiates from the centre and extends to an angled minute track.

The dial is complemented by diamond-cut indexes, an applied Grand Seiko logo, and a framed date window at 3 o’clock. A blued seconds hand and dark blue dial text add subtle contrast, enhancing legibility and visual appeal.

Powering the SLGH027 is the Hi-Beat 9SA5 automatic movement, a technical marvel introduced in 2020. With a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz) and an accuracy rating of -3 to +5 seconds per day, this 47-jewel movement is the cornerstone to all Grand Seiko’s releases.

It features a twin-barrel design, offering an impressive 80-hour power reserve, and incorporates the brand’s Dual Impulse Escapement for improved efficiency. The movement is also resistant to magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m, ensuring reliable performance in various conditions.

The SLGH027 is paired with a three-row bracelet made from Ever-Brilliant Steel, ensuring durability and comfort. The bracelet features a push-button folding clasp with titanium components and an 18k gold emblem, adding a touch of luxury. The watch, like all Grand Seiko line is highly wearable, with a balanced design that suits both formal and casual settings.

Grand Seiko will produce 1,000 numbered pieces of the SLGH027, making it a limited-edition release. The watch is priced at $12,500 USD and will be available globally. While the price is consistent with other Evolution 9 models featuring the 9SA5 movement, the SLGH027 stands out for its unique dial and commemorative significance.

Mount Iwate holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Japan. It has been a site of worship and pilgrimage for centuries, with several shrines located at its base. The mountain is also a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering scenic trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Grand Seiko’s Shizukuishi Watch Studio, where many of its mechanical watches are crafted, is located near the base of Mount Iwate. The mountain has served as a recurring source of inspiration for Grand Seiko’s designs, particularly for its dial textures and colour palettes. The natural beauty of the mountain, including its ridges, snow-covered peaks, and surrounding environment, has been interpreted in various ways across Grand Seiko’s collections.

For example, the radial texture of the SLGH027 “Mountainscape” dial is inspired by the ridges and landslides on Mount Iwate’s surface, while the light blue colour represents the purity of the air and water around the mountain.

The Grand Seiko SLGH027 “Mountainscape” is a fitting tribute to the brand’s 65th anniversary, combining technical innovation with a design inspired by nature. While some may find Grand Seiko’s frequent references to Mt. Iwate repetitive, the result is undeniably striking.