Grand Seiko Unveils The New Incredibly Sleek SLGH013 In Ever-Brilliant Steel

By Adrienne Faurote September 13, 2022

Grand Seiko’s design inspiration has always transpired from nature and the dynamic relationship between storytelling and high watchmaking. Each new timepiece delves deep into the rich history of Japan’s landscape, telling the story of the culture through unparalleled design details in the watch. Therefore, in true Grand Seiko style, the latest release within the Heritage Collection, the Hi-Beat 36000 reference SLGH013, is symbolic of the melting snow of Mt. Iwate, the mountain that overlooks the Grand Seiko Studio in Shizukuishi.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko

The sleek style of the light blue dial represents the distinct texture of the snow on Mt. Iwate as it melts during the seasonal transition from winter to spring. The texture of the dial is achieved through the combination of a flat dial and a wide opening, which creates a dramatic light effect on the dial, fashioning the one-of-a-kind dial depth that Grand Seiko is known for. Complementing the brilliant radiance of the dial is the Zaratsu polishing that delivers a smooth and distortion-free mirror finish on the upper surfaces of the 40mm case.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko

This timepiece also makes Grand Seiko design history as the first mainstream creation to feature the high-grade Ever-Brilliant Steel for not only the case but also for the bracelet. The Ever-Brilliant Seel has a PREN (Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number) value almost two times higher than the standard grade of steel used in high-class watches — catapulting this timepiece’s design into its own echelon. Remaining true to the incredibly high standard to which Grand Seiko holds itself, the movement that powers the SLGH013 is Caliber 9SA5, seen through the sapphire caseback, and has a power reserve of 80 hours, an enhanced precision that only a Hi-Beat movement can deliver.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Grand Seiko