The lion symbol reflected the aim of the original Grand Seiko team to create the very best timepiece they could in terms of accuracy, durability, and beauty. Inheriting the lion symbol, this watch was developed in the relentless pursuit to advance the essence of the Grand Seiko sports watch. From its case design rich with symbolism to its refined rubber strap and textured dial, numerous aspects have evolved from previous lion-themed timepieces in pursuit of key sports watch values such as legibility, durability, comfort, and beauty.
The new creation features a dial pattern that takes inspiration from the mane of the lion as it waves in the wind. At the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions, there are distinctive, three-dimensional sub-dials, which are inlaid onto the dial. This watch also marks the first time that Grand Seiko’s Brilliant Hard Titanium has been adopted in the Sport Collection. The alloy is brighter than traditional titanium, causing the case’s hairline-finished and Zaratsu-polished surfaces to appear even more radiant, enhancing the strong design.
Thanks to these three-dimensional sub-dials, the distance between the sub-dial markings and hands has been reduced, leading to enhanced legibility. Resembling the sharp claws of a lion, the diamond-cut indexes of the main dial reflect light beautifully. Moreover, these indexes have been made taller and shaped to hold sufficient Lumibrite for improved readability in any light condition.
The newly developed rubber strap has a tensile strength of nearly 2.7 times the typical silicone strap used for Grand Seiko. It was created for this watch, and its brown color pairs perfectly with the patterned dial. Not only does the strap have an excellent texture, but the motif on the back was inspired by the lion’s paw, providing a playful design detail even if it is only visible to the wearer. Combined with the slightly curved case back, the new strap ensures comfort and stability on the wrist befitting a Grand Seiko sports watch.
The claw-like, hairline-finished surfaces are more emphasized than in previous lion-inspired watches. They span a wider area that includes not only the lugs but also the bezel. On the side, the pushers have been updated to improve the chronograph function’s ease of use. The powerful design of these buttons was created to achieve a satisfying feeling when engaging the chronograph.
The name Tentagraph describes key features of the Caliber 9SC5 movement: Ten beats per second, three days of power reserve, automatic winding, and chronograph.
Fully wound, the watch runs for 72 hours when the chronograph is in operation.