Grand Seiko may be famous in recent years for its patterned dials, with many more varieties appearing over the past couple of years, but long-time fans will remember the earlier days when only a few patterns were available in the catalogue, with the “Snowflake” and “Mount Iwate” dials being the go-to options for textured dials.

Now, the brand has introduced a refreshed version of the “Mount Iwate” dial — not just in a new colour but with an entirely new pattern — for the first time in almost two decades since the original debuted in 2006. For this launch, Grand Seiko has chosen its flagship Evolution 9 high-beat model, the SLGH027, in a case made from Ever-Brilliant Steel.

A Mount Iwate-inspired dial reflecting nature and purity

At first glance, the new pattern is noticeably different from the original, with sharper, more defined cuts and raised details on the dial. It has a stronger three-dimensional effect, similar to the “Birch” dial in the earlier Evolution 9 SLGH005. In comparison, the older “Mount Iwate” dial has finer patterns that are less prominent from a distance.

In fact, the new pattern suits the Evolution 9 design language better, as the hour markers and hands are sharper and more angular than typical Grand Seiko designs. Together, the dial and markers create a sportier, more contemporary look while still maintaining a sense of elegance through the exquisite finishing.

One of the standout features of the new dial is its colour. The light blue tone is well-balanced — not too saturated, not too faded — evoking the sky and water for a natural, pure look. Combined with the dial’s shimmering effect, the result is a snowy mountain with a soft blue reflection of the sky. It’s another well-thought-out dial, as expected from Grand Seiko.

As part of the Evolution 9 family, the SLGH027 naturally boasts all the high-end features Grand Seiko has developed in recent years. One of them is Ever-Brilliant Steel, which appears brighter than the standard steel used in other Grand Seiko watches, making the finishing stand out even more.

The sizing is also more refined than standard models from the brand, especially in terms of thickness. At 40 mm wide and 11.7 mm tall, it competes well with watches from brands like Rolex, which are often associated with wearability. This is thanks not only to a better case design but also to the latest-generation movement inside.

The cal. 9SA5 is a high-beat 5 Hz movement with twin barrels that provide an impressive 80-hour power reserve. But the real highlight is the Dual Impulse Escapement, a unique system developed by Grand Seiko.

Two more seasonal dials exclusive to Asia-Pacific

Alongside the SLGH027, Grand Seiko has also quietly debuted two more high-beat models, albeit with the previous-generation movement. The new SBGH351 “Rikka” and SBGH353 “Shubun” are still a surprise, as they were originally released a few years ago as a US-exclusive edition.

Now, these watches are available in the Asia-Pacific region with some minor changes and will be sold exclusively here. One key update is the material that is upgraded from standard steel to Grand Seiko’s own Ever-Brilliant Steel.

The dial textures remain the same as the US editions, but there’s a small change on the “Rikka”: the gold markers have been replaced with silver ones, making the dial feel less saturated — gold and olive can be a bit much for some — while giving it a fresher look. That said, a touch of gold remains on the logo and seconds hand, which adds just the right amount of contrast.

Tech Specs: Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Hi-Beat 36000 80 Hours Limited Edition SLGH027

Movement: Self-winding 9SA5; 80-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; central seconds; date
Case: 40mm × 11.7mm; Ever-Brilliant Steel; water-resistant to 100m
Strap: Ever-Brilliant Steel bracelet
Availability: Limited to 1,200 pieces
Price: USD 10,500

Tech Specs: Grand Seiko Heritage Collection SBGH351 “Rikka” and SBGH353 “Shubun”

Movement: Self-winding 9S85; 55-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; central seconds; date
Case: 40mm × 12.9mm; Ever-Brilliant Steel; water-resistant to 100m
Strap: Ever-Brilliant Steel bracelet
Availability: Exclusive to Grand Seiko boutiques and retailers in the Asia-Pacific region
Price: SGD 9,500