Grand Seiko Tokyo Lion Tentagraph
Japanese luxury watch brand Grand Seiko expands the Sport Collection by introducing the new Tokyo Lion Tentagraph (reference SLGC009) model.
In 2019, Grand Seiko introduced the Spring Drive 20th Anniversary Sports Chronograph watches inspired by the brand’s legendry lion symbol originated in the 1960s. Grand Seiko now incorporates the powerful lion design with its first mechanical chronograph movement, the Tentagraph.
From its case design rich with symbolism to its refined rubber strap and textured dial, numerous aspects have evolved from previous lion-themed timepieces in pursuit of key sports watch values such as legibility, durability, comfort, and beauty.
The claw-like, hairline-finished surfaces are more emphasized in the new design than in previous lion-inspired watches, spanning not only the lugs but also the bezel.
The new Tokyo Lion Tentagraph watch marks the first time that Grand Seiko’s Brilliant Hard Titanium has been adopted in the Sport Collection. The alloy is brighter than traditional titanium, causing the case’s hairline-finished and Zaratsu-polished surfaces to appear even more radiant, enhancing the strong design. On the side, the pushers have been updated to improve the chronograph function’s ease of use. The slightly curved case back enhances ergonomics and better hugs the wrist.
The dial pattern takes inspiration from the mane of the lion as it waves in the wind. At the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions, there are distinctive, three-dimensional sub-dials, which are inlaid onto the dial. Thanks to these three-dimensional sub-dials, the distance between the sub-dial markings and hands has been reduced, leading to enhanced legibility.
Resembling the sharp claws of a lion, the diamond-cut indexes of the main dial reflect light beautifully. Moreover, these indexes have been made taller and shaped to hold sufficient Lumibrite for improved readability in any light condition.
The clasp is newly developed for this strap, which is made to curl on the inner side. The newly developed rubber strap has a tensile strength of nearly 2.7 times the typical silicone strap used for Grand Seiko. This exclusively created brown colour strap pairs perfectly with the patterned dial.
Not only does the strap have an excellent texture, but the motif on the back was inspired by the lion’s paw, providing a playful design detail even if it is only visible to the wearer. Combined with the slightly curved case back, the new strap ensures comfort and stability on the wrist befitting a Grand Seiko sports watch.
The Tentagraph movement (Caliber 9SC5) beats 10 times per second, ensuring a high level of accuracy when measuring elapsed time as well as the time of day. And, thanks to its energy-efficient Dual Impulse Escapement and two barrels, the watch runs for three days even when the chronograph is in operation.
Furthermore, each Tentagraph is tested for 20 days, three days longer than most Grand Seiko mechanical movements, to ensure that it meets the Grand Seiko Standard of +5 to -3 seconds per day even when the chronograph is running.
Its vertical clutch and a column wheel ensure high accuracy and operability. The vertical clutch eliminates any shuddering or jumping of the hands when the chronograph is engaged and enhances measurement accuracy, while the column wheel delivers precise control of the chronograph operation. The movement incorporates a three-pointed hammer, which ensures that, when the reset pusher is pressed, the hands return to zero instantly and in perfect synchronization.
The new Tokyo Lion Tentagraph Reference SLGC009 will be available at the Grand Seiko Boutiques starting in August 2025.
Model: Grand Seiko Tokyo Lion Tentagraph, Reference SLGC009
Movement
Caliber 9SC5
Driving system: Automatic
Frequency: 36,000 vibrations per hour (10 beats per second)
Accuracy (mean daily rate): +5 to -3 seconds per day
Power reserve: 72 hours
Chronograph with 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock
Number of jewels: 60
Case
Brilliant Hard Titanium case
Diameter: 43.0mm
Thickness: 15.6mm
Lug-to-lug 50.0mm
Box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface
See-through case back
Screw-down crown
Water resistance: 20 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Dial
Mane of the lion pattern dial
Lumibrite on hands and indexes
Strap
Rubber strap with High-Intensity Titanium three-fold clasp with push button release
Recommended retail price
Europe: €17,500
