Grand Seiko SLGH003 9SAH Hi-Beat Review
Grand Seiko is a pioneer of luxury watches. They are a sought-after brand because of their innovative approach to design. To mark its 60th anniversary, Grand Seiko is launching its SLGH003 Hi-Beat watch, an all-steel version of the 18k yellow gold SLGH002. The SLGH003 was designed to push the new 9SAH movement system in the limelight.
The Exterior:
This 40mm watch has a thin and sleek 11.7mm case. Not only does this make the watch more comfortable to wear, but the lower height also makes it a better fit compared to the previous model. The case's polishing is immaculate and the aesthetic placement of the lugs is breathtaking.
Like other Grand Seiko watches, this model also sports a Speedmaster-style bracelet, which is well-built with finesse. The links are smaller, wider, and unpolished, and a small 18 Karat gold GS medallion is engraved on the clasp. These details, paired with the sapphire colored rea of the case, makes this timepiece an accurate representation of elegant luxury. This modification on the SLGH002 design style gives the watch a more prominent identity. Similarly, the clasp is a sturdier standard folding clasp with two release buttons.
The SLGH003 is made from a box-shaped sapphire crystal, which is arguably the best crystal for a timepiece due to its scratch resistance and sturdiness.
The Dial:
Grand Seiko has pulled out all the stops when it comes to the aesthetics of the SLGH002 and SLGH003. The cerulean dial texture is sumptuous and reflective, which pairs well with the luxurious yet sleek exterior of the watch.
While the dial's azure perfection is a sight for sore eyes, what stands out about the dial is the interface. The crimson-colored seconds hand contrasts with the background color of the dial perfectly. This combination makes the reflections coming off of the dial under sunlight look genuinely captivating. In addition to the dial's beautiful color scheme, the design itself is efficient; it is a challenge for a fully framed date window to appear as an essential element of a watch's design, but Grand Seiko has made that happen seamlessly.
Under the Hood:
The technical enhancements that come with these two models of Grand Seiko are perhaps the most significant upgrades. These are some of the first Grand Seiko timepieces to use their latest invention, the Dual Impulse Escapement. Contrary to traditional level escapements, the Dual Impulse Escapement can impulse the balance twice, directly and indirectly, instead of once, while using the same amount of energy.
In simple terms, the Dual Impulse Escapement allows the escape wheel to transmit the power to the balance directly when it swings in one direction, and indirectly through a standard pallet fork when it swings in the opposing direction. This escapement is designed to reduce the sliding friction stemming from when the balance impulses in one direction. Additionally, the new free-sprung balance, which is kept in place by a full balance bridge, is now equipped with an overcoil balance spring and inertial weights appearing as four screws on the wheel.
Due to these specifications, the 9SA5 is a significant upgrade to the standard high-frequency calibers. Grand Seiko further improves this system by utilizing the saved energy by fitting a second barrel to the caliber, while only minimally increasing the weight. This allows for steady timekeeping to +5/-3 seconds per day. The 36,000vph high-beat, alongside an 80-hour power reserve in the tank, is a cherry on top for this elegant masterpiece.
Finally, the SLGH003 doesn't compromise basic features such as water resistance and a generous warranty. While the water resistance of 100 meters offers you added protection, the three year international warranty gives you the necessary security to be carefree with it.
