Grand Seiko SLGH027 – Technical excellence with creative déjà vu

Grand Seiko does it again. With the launch of the SLGH027, the brand reaffirms its position as a heavyweight in fine watchmaking, combining technical precision with impeccable execution. This time, the protagonist is, once again, Mount Iwate, a classic in the brand's narrative. And while the execution is brilliant, it's worth asking: how long can we continue to see variations on the same inspiration?

The first thing that catches the eye on this model is its light blue dial with a radial texture, a nod to the aerial view of Mount Iwate. The texture is sublime, the play of reflections is hypnotic, and the level of detail is what you'd expect from Grand Seiko. No one can deny that they know how to make dials like few others. But here comes the awkward question: if we've already seen this inspiration in so many previous versions, isn't it time for Grand Seiko to explore other territories? Japan is a country rich in culture, landscapes, and history, but it seems the brand feels too comfortable repeating the same formula.

The case, made of Ever-Brilliant steel, is another strong point. It's more resistant to corrosion than traditional steel, with a lasting shine that remains impeccable over time. This detail not only enhances the aesthetics but also gives the watch a sense of solidity and longevity, something collectors always value.

Now let's talk about the true heart of this piece: the caliber 9SA5. A Hi-Beat movement with 36,000 vibrations per hour that combines extreme precision with an 80-hour power reserve. And this is where Grand Seiko demonstrates its technical superiority: they've managed to extend the autonomy without compromising the frequency, something that in many other watches with long power reserves usually means a decrease in the caliber's speed.

Another point to highlight is its exclusivity. With only 1,200 units in production, this model falls squarely into the collector's category. And while the $10,500 USD price tag might seem steep, within the Grand Seiko universe, it's quite a competitive price for a piece of this quality and with a movement of this caliber (literally).

With all that said, here's my review. While the SLGH027 is a spectacular watch in every sense, Grand Seiko needs to open up to new sources of inspiration. The fascination with Mount Iwate has been a great strategy, but it's already starting to feel like over-trodden ground. The brand's creative potential is enormous, and it would be refreshing to see them venture into new concepts without losing their essence.

In short, the SLGH027 is a technical marvel with impeccable execution, but the brand is playing it too safe. Grand Seiko continues to shine, but if it wants to maintain excitement among enthusiasts, it's time to explore other avenues.