New Seiko SLGH005 Transports You to the White Birch Forests of Shizukuishi
For newcomers to Grand Seiko, it’s essential to understand that Shizukuishi is to Japan what Le Locle, or any number of villages in the Jura Mountains, are to Switzerland: a cradle of mechanical watchmaking. The new Seiko SLGH005 transports you to the white birch forests of Shizukuishi.
The delicately textured dial of the new SLGH005, a mechanical hi-beat 36,000 watches housed in a 40 mm stainless steel case, is patterned to resemble the Shirakaba, the white birch tree of northern Japan, which thrives in the region surrounding the Grand Seiko Studio in Shizukuishi. The location of the small town is in the mountains of Iwate Prefecture.
The aesthetics of the SLGH005 is known as the Series 9 Design, a signature of the Grand Seiko Heritage Collection derived from a style defined in 1967 refined with more contemporary details. The hallmarks include a distortion-free, mirror-like polish accomplished through a technique called zaratsu, and cases designed to feature wide lugs and a low center of gravity to maximize comfort on the wrist.
The most recent piece from Grand Seiko timepiece reminds of “forest bathing,” a Japanese wellness practice that celebrates spending time in nature. It is believed to reduce stress and promote well-being.
The new model will be available next month at Grand Seiko Boutiques and selected retail stores worldwide, and the retail price will be $9100.
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