Grand Seiko Adds SLGH017 "Night Birch" to Evolution 9 Collection
The black dial model joins the popular "Birch" collection, this time in titanium
We talked a lot about the Grand Seiko Evolution 9 collection replica watches price at Fratello. The Japanese brand's collection of modern timepieces features a number of extraordinary pieces with new case designs. My personal favorite is the SBGE285 "Mist Flake" GMT. Another high-profile version from the same collection is the SLGH005 “White Birch”. It was followed by a Spring Drive version nicknamed "White Birch II". Today, we saw the release of the black dial SLGH017 "Night Birch". What's different about this new version is that it's made of titanium.
Interesting to see all the different Grand Seiko Evolution 9 versions. The combination of modern design and new movements has resulted in some new Grand Seiko favorites. As mentioned, I love the monochrome SBGE285 "Mist Flake". This will be one of two Grand Seiko models that I would like to add to my collection, the second being the SBGA413 with its stunning pink dial. While I found the new GS diver's watch and chronograph at Watches And Wonders this year to be less attractive in terms of design, both Evolution 9 "White Birch" models are beautiful timepieces. The new "Night Birch" builds further on the theme of the "Birch" model. let's see.
Inspiration for "Night Birch" Grand Seiko often finds inspiration for dials in the area around the Shizukuishi studio, where all Grand Seiko mechanical watches are made. So we always get poetic interpretations of those amazing dials. This time, it's no different. The black version of this "Birch" dial is inspired by the ambience of the birch forest of the Hirai plateau at night.fake watches for sale
Essentially, it's a black version of the "White Birch" dial. It features the same stunning structural pattern as the white dial model. As most of you know, seeing a watch in real life can make all the difference. Nacho and I had the opportunity to witness SLGH017 up close and it was amazing. You have to pay homage to Grand Seiko to understand the craftsmanship the brand showcases through its dials. The dial changes its appearance depending on how the light hits it. But play with the lights a little and the black dial comes to life in a way I've barely seen on any other black dial. It's a thing of pure beauty.
Titanium instead of stainless steel When it comes to the specs of the SLGH017, we've seen a lot before. But there is one big difference compared to the two "Birch" models. While these are made of stainless steel, this "Night Birch" features a titanium case and bracelet. If you've seen Grand Seiko in this metal before, you'll know that the brand's high-strength titanium is slightly different in color compared to stainless steel. However, every time I see one, I am amazed that the difference in appearance is not as big as other brands.
Also, even with Grand Seiko's titanium timepieces, the level of finishing is always excellent. It provides a striking contrast between Zaratsu polished and brushed parts. Just looking at the watch, the polished part might even fool you into thinking it's a stainless steel model. However, once you pick it up, the weight suggests it's lightweight titanium. Honestly, why Grand Seiko chose to release the next titanium model in the "Birch" collection is a bit of a mystery. It would make sense to add a stainless steel version with a black dial in line with the "White Birch". However, for some reason, the brand chose to do it differently.replica Grand Seiko watches
A familiar set of specifications Specifications are similar to the stainless steel models, although different materials are used for the case and bracelet. The watch has a 40mm case and is 11.7mm thick. It measures 47mm lug-to-lug and has a lug width of 22mm. I really like the angular lines of this new Evolution 9 case. They give it a contemporary feel, a departure from the iconic 44GS-style and 62GS-style cases we love so much. Personally, I think it's awesome to see the case designs in these new collections. They perfectly show that Grand Seiko still has high expectations when it comes to design.
One element that immediately stands out when you look at the case is the brushed bezel. Starting at the bezel, your eyes are drawn inward by the bright application markings. Coarse indexing performed to perfection. In their size, thickness and finish, they are simply stunning. Grab a magnifying glass and you'll be reminded why Grand Seiko is so highly praised for its flawless finish.
From the mark, your eyes will travel further across the dial to meet the sharp-edged phone.
Personally, I especially like the hour hand. With its chunky thickness and chopped ends, it has tons of character. Plus, it complements other slender hands perfectly, creating one of my current favorite hand sets. As you can see, the date window is neatly hidden at the 3 o'clock position. It fits perfectly and stands out when you need it, without compromising the overall design of the watch face. What an amazing watch face this is! replica Franck Muller watches
The beautiful Grand Seiko 9SA5 movement If you turn the watch around, you can see the Grand Seiko 9SA5 movement through the sapphire caseback. This is the same Hi-Beat movement used in the SLGH005 “White Birch”. It debuted in 2020, as Robert-Jan explained in his review of "White Birch." Automatic movement with Dual Impulse escapement. As RJ writes, "It's an ingenious mechanism that makes the escapement more efficient. It transmits power directly from the escape wheel to the balance, and through the pallet fork in the other direction."
The 9SA5 includes a free sprung balance specially developed by Grand Seiko for this movement. It achieves higher precision over longer periods of time, and offers higher impact resistance and less friction. This movement is equipped with a winding hairspring instead of the flat hairspring used in other Grand Seiko 9S movements. The brand decided to make this switch after rigorous testing, concluding that the outer ring hairspring allows for a more stable operation in each test position. Therefore, it improves the constant performance of the movement.
accurate and beautiful In terms of specifications, the movement runs at 36,000vph and offers an 80-hour power reserve. In terms of accuracy, the movement runs an average of +5 to -3 seconds per day. However, as most of you know, Grand Seiko is pretty conservative with numbers. Therefore, the actual performance may be better than the brand claims. Needless to say, the accuracy is within the observatory specification of +6/-4 seconds per day. As you might expect, the finish of the movement is also a delight. The plywood is decorated with Côtes de Genève, and the main plate is decorated with pearls.Richard Mille RM 67-01 Extra Flat
My impression of SLGH017 "Night Birch" We didn't have a chance to review this watch for a longer period of time, but putting the watch on your wrist quickly will make you realize this is an amazing timepiece. I would personally choose this black dial version over either of the two "Birch" models. The titanium bracelet has the same design as the stainless steel version. It has a fully brushed top surface with a little polished bevel. In addition, the sides are also polished. The quality and feel of the bracelet is incredible and ensures the watch is a pleasure to wear.
Honestly, I'm not sure why Grand Seiko didn't launch this stainless steel model. I would prefer that one. It would make sense to have a stainless steel version with a black dial next to the Hi-Beat "White Birch".
Does it make this SLGH017 "Night Birch" less impressive? Absolutely not. Experiencing the best replica watches up close and wearing it on your wrist will instantly remind you that Grand Seiko has created some of the absolute best and most impressive timepieces. And this new "Night Birch" is another perfect example. I can't wait to get it out for a full review.