SLGH003 is the iconic building of cheap Grand Seiko, and its internal and external improvements reflect the brand’s technological advancement and growing international appeal. All in all, the new 9 series design is very handsome-compared with the earlier models, has a better fit and finish-the movement is very good in structure and decoration. But compared with previous generations of Hi-Beat models, the price of SLGH003 is higher. It does provide honest, value for money, but it is far less than the old watches. Nonetheless, SLGH003 stands out thanks to the unmistakable Grand Seiko-style dial and case, as well as the innovative Dual Impulse Escapement. Its successor is the conventionally produced SLGH005 “White Birch”, a legitimate flagship Seiko mechanical watch.

Cal. The aesthetics presented by 9SA5 is quite different from its predecessors. The finishing work has reached a higher level, and the architecture is more inspiring.

Calibrated decoration. 9SA5 did a good job, all visible parts were taken care of. For example, bridges and rotors now have bevels and counterbores, which are what the previous generation of products called. 9S85 is missing.Review cheap watches

Likewise, the complex shape of the bridge allows a sharper outward angle along the oblique angle, which is an advantage. In other words, although the beveled edge of the diamond cut is well done, traces of thread milling can be seen at close range.

The previous generations of Seiko movements are known for their etched stripes, which almost resemble engravings. In contrast, the stripes on the 9SA5 are light and fine-grained, reminiscent of the Geneva waves found in typical Swiss mid-to-high end sports.

Incidentally, it is still controversial whether it is necessary to strictly carry out finishing upgrades or whether it is worth the extra cost. Although the more refined “Swiss” appearance will appeal to a wider market, at least historically, the decoration of the exquisite movement has never been part of the Grand Seiko brand. However, Grand Seiko did complete functional moving parts, such as the pivots of gears and pinions, to improve efficiency.

At the same time, the similarity to the Swiss movement in terms of architecture and decoration is a more obvious problem, because now there are fewer and fewer distinctions between Grand Seiko. This is especially true considering recent calibrations. The 9R31 Spring Drive movement shows that the Japanese style can achieve an aesthetic improvement.

Importantly, it is worth mentioning the new Citizen cal. 0200, the degree of completion is higher, but the price is much lower, while trying to avoid looking like a Swiss movement.

Grand Seiko 60th Anniversary Caliber 9SA5 Hi-Beat 36000 80 Hours

Ref. SLGH003

Diameter: 40 mm
Height: 11.7 mm
Material: Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 9SA5
Features: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Frequency: 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 80 hours

Strap: Steel bracelet