Grand Seiko’s flagship chronograph gets a new dial with the Tentagraph SLGC007 that just launched at Watches & Wonders 2025. Nearly identical to its predecessor, the SLGC001 with a dark blue dial, the new iteration distinguishes itself through a striking grey dial embossed with a pattern inspired by freshly fallen snow. This is matched with contrasting black sub-dials that coordinate seamlessly with the ceramic bezel, setting it apart from the earlier model.

Initial thoughts

The SLGC001 was a significant milestone for Grand Seiko — serving as the brand’s first mechanical chronograph — the new iteration of the Tentagraph is a just cosmetic variant. It has all the strengths and weaknesses of the original, though the dial is more attractive. This refreshed dial is far more appealing than the original in blue, as blue is somewhat overused in sports watches. The “panda”-esque black registers are also a nice touch that add to the sporty design.

Priced at US$14,700, the Tentagraph SLGC007 is priced reasonably – but not quite the same value proposition as the average Grand Seiko.

The Tentagraph has an impressive list of features, most obviously the in-house cal. 9SC5 with Grand Seiko’s proprietary Dual Impulse Escapement, and a high level of fit and finish, but the movement is modular in construction, which should not be a case for a flagship chronograph from a respected watchmaker.

Nature inspired once again

As is often the case with Grand Seiko dials, the SLGC007 dial is meant to evoke Mount Iwate, a peak near Grand Seiko’s workshop. It has a fine, radial pattern in a blue-grey finish that pairs well with the slightly glossy sub-dials.

Beyond this aesthetic update, the watch remains identical to the earlier model, featuring a 43.2 mm titanium case that houses the in-house cal. 9SC5. Operating at 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz), the movement offers a robust 72-hour power reserve.

The chronograph employs a column wheel and vertical clutch, which are essentially the norm for modern chronograph movements, but it is a modular mechanism that is added on top of the base movement. The base calibre, however, is Grand Seiko’s newest and greatest mechanical movement and incorporates all of the brand’s recent innovations.

Key facts and price

Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection Tentagraph
Ref. SLGC007

Diameter: 43.2 mm
Height: 15.3 mm
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 9SC5
Functions: Hours, minutes, running seconds, chronograph, and date
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz)
Power reserve: 72 hours

Strap: Titanium bracelet

Limited edition: No
Availability: At Grand Seiko boutiques and select retailers starting May 2025
Price: US$14,700

For more, visit grand-seiko.com.