Palms-On Grand Seiko 44GS Hello-Beat Ice Blue SLGH013 (Specs, Value)

A number of parts outline Grand Seiko’s model, all gathered below an necessary algorithm generally known as the Grammar of Design. The instrument behind this sequence of pointers was a watch generally known as the 44GS, a pointy and unmistakably GS watch born in 1967, and one that can set in stone what the model’s creations might be for the long run. We’ve seen a number of releases this yr celebrating the fifty fifth anniversary of the 44GS, such because the Hello-Beat GMT SBGJ255 and, contemplating right this moment’s issues, the Hello-Beat Computerized SLGH009. The latter, a restricted version, launched GS’ newest computerized motion inside an all-time traditional design. And right this moment, it’s time for this Calibre 9SA5 to hitch the everlasting 44GS assortment, with the brand new SLGH013 and its placing ice blue textured dial. And there are just a few different issues to know!

The 44GS is a watch that may be thought of instrumental within the historical past of Grand Seiko. It was, when launched in 1967, the primary mannequin to use designer Taro Tanaka’s Grammar of Design. His imaginative and prescient was world and coated the method of the creation of a complete watch. The mission of Taro Tanaka was easy and complicated on the similar time, and it was to present Grand Seiko a real Japanese id whereas retaining traditional watchmaking codes. With such significance, the 44GS nonetheless an awesome supply of inspiration for the model’s designers. And it now comes with innovation inside and outside, with this new SLGH013.

The inspiration behind this new Heritage mannequin is somewhat apparent, a minimum of for the case. All the things in it screams 44GS, with this angular form, robust shoulders, an virtually absent bezel and a dial that follows all of the ideas of the model because the Nineteen Sixties. As for the color and texture, it’s once more somewhat traditional and typical Grand Seiko, as it’s mentioned to have “the feel of the snow that begins to soften in Spring on Mt Iwate, the imposing 2,038-meter-high peak that overlooks the Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi, the place all Grand Seiko mechanical fashions are made.” But when the recipe is understood, the outcome stays nonetheless extremely enticing.

The case of this new Heritage 44GS mannequin comes with no surprises. The form is timeless, sharp, and angular and the proportions are additionally well-known. A 40mm diameter, a somewhat nice 11.8mm top, and a reasonably managed L2L of 47.2mm. Specs; comfy 100m water-resistance, screw-down crown, box-shaped sapphire crystal on prime, see-through sapphire crystal on the caseback. Ending; wonderful as common with Zaratsu (distortion-free) polished accents and brushed surfaces.

What’s new, nonetheless, on this SLGH013 is using Ever-Sensible chrome steel… however not just for the case, because the bracelet additionally depends on this particular materials, which is a primary for a Grand Seiko watch from the usual assortment. As a reminder, Ever-Sensible metal is a high-grade alloy with a brighter tone, a excessive degree of corrosion resistance and higher sturdiness. It ends in a watch with nice lustre and shine, which is even bolstered by the sumptuous polished components throughout the case.

The dial of this 44GS Hello-Beat SLGH013 performs on traits, with its ice blue color – a discreet, somewhat metallic and ever-changing color that isn’t too blatant. It’s right here mixed with a stamped, fantastic texture that provides depth and performs drastically with the ambient mild. Detractors will say that it’s nothing actually new from Grand Seiko, however nonetheless, the watch does make an affect and that dial alone justify to contemplate this mannequin… The blue color is accentuated on the central seconds, which is blued metal. Palms and markers are, as at all times, executed with nice care and are razor-edged. All are polished and faceted, which improves legibility in all angles – a minimum of through the day, as there isn’t any lume on this mannequin.

Underneath the sapphire caseback is a motion that has fairly some arguments too, the fashionable Calibre 9SA5. Geared up with a proprietary escapement, the Twin Impulse, it got here to market principally with the White Birch SLGH005 and made some noise with its modern geometry. Along with its excessive frequency of 5Hz, this escapement additionally departs from the traditional lever escapement, with an answer that’s near what’s present in Omega’s Co-Axial system – extra on this GS innovation on this article. This 9SA5 can also be thinner than earlier actions, and now comes geared up with two barrels for a strong 80h energy reserve. Final however not least, the general design and ending have been redefined to make the view via the caseback way more interesting.

As mentioned, the Heritage 44GS Hello-Beat SLGH013 is worn on an Ever-Sensible metal bracelet. A 3-link building, it combines principally brushed surfaces with polished accents. It measures 19mm on the lugs and is closed by a traditional three-fold clasp with push-button launch.

Availability & Value

The brand new Grand Seiko Heritage 44GS Hello-Beat Calibre 9SA5 SLGH013 is launched as a part of the everlasting assortment and isn’t restricted in manufacturing. Will probably be priced at EUR 9,300. For extra particulars, please go to www.grand-seiko.com.