Author: Ricardo Amaral

Grand Seiko strengthens its Sport Collection with the introduction of the Tokyo Lion Tentagraph SLGC009—a model that defies convention and signals a turning point in the brand’s contemporary design language. Unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2024, this chronograph is the first from Grand Seiko to house a fully mechanical chronograph movement, making it both a technical and stylistic milestone for the brand.

A First Encounter That Evolved Over Time

Our first reaction when encountering the Grand Seiko Tokyo Lion Tentagraph at Watches and Wonders was one of genuine astonishment. The watch stood out sharply against the aesthetic Grand Seiko has traditionally embraced. We’ll admit—at first glance, we weren’t entirely sold. The bold, muscular design seemed to stray far from the elegant and restrained lines that Grand Seiko has made its signature.

But impressions evolve. Over the days that followed, conversations with other attendees and multiple revisits to the watch itself shifted our view. We began to understand what Grand Seiko was aiming for—a clear departure from the past, a bold step into modernity. And now, we can say without hesitation: we’ve gone from not liking it to genuinely appreciating it. It’s a piece that grows on you, revealing new layers of intention and detail with each look.

The Tokyo Lion Tentagraph delivers a unique blend of strength and sophistication. The angular case evokes the spirit of the lion—its namesake—with razor-sharp surfaces and a confident silhouette. That symbolism continues in the textured dial, the assertive color palette, the robust movement, and even the rubber strap, which mirrors the angularity of the case and is subtly embossed on the inside with the shape of a lion’s paw. The horizontally fluted chronograph pushers even gave us the impression—perhaps fancifully—of claw marks, a fierce touch of character that adds to the thematic consistency.

Sculpted Titanium Case with Functional Design

At 43mm in diameter and 15.6mm thick, the SLGC009 is housed in Brilliant Hard Titanium, a proprietary Grand Seiko alloy that’s both lighter and more scratch-resistant than conventional titanium. Its Zaratsu-polished and hairline-brushed surfaces create a dramatic interplay of light and shadow, amplified by the claw-like lugs and sharply contoured case sides. A box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial, while a subtly curved exhibition case back ensures comfort on the wrist.

The watch is engineered for real-world use, with 200 meters of water resistance and magnetic resistance up to 4,800 A/m, making it as durable as it is visually compelling.

A Mane-Inspired Dial with Purposeful Layout

True to its thematic core, the beige dial features a unique lion’s mane texture—horizontal, rope-like waves that shift subtly with light. Three bowl-shaped sub-dials are set at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. Red chronograph hands stand out boldly on black totalizers, while the running seconds at 3 o’clock blends into the background with a tonal brown. A sloped inner flange, marked in red and white, reinforces the high-frequency performance of the watch.

The hour markers are hollow and angular, filled with ample Lumibrite for maximum visibility. Broad, faceted hands echo this bold geometry and are also generously coated in Lumibrite. A red-tipped central chronograph seconds hand injects an extra dynamic detail. At 4:30, a discreet date window keeps functionality present without compromising the overall dial balance.

Powered by the 9SC5: Grand Seiko’s First Mechanical Chronograph Movement

Beneath the case back is the heart of the Tokyo Lion Tentagraph—the Caliber 9SC5. It’s Grand Seiko’s first mechanical chronograph and is based on the acclaimed high-beat 9SA5 platform. Beating at 36,000 vph (5Hz), it incorporates a vertical clutch and column wheel for precise chronograph engagement, while a dual-barrel system provides an impressive 72-hour power reserve—even with the chronograph in use.

The movement features the innovative Dual Impulse Escapement and a free-sprung balance for enhanced accuracy and durability. With a daily rate of +5 to -3 seconds, the 9SC5 delivers chronometric performance worthy of its aggressive exterior.

Sporty Strap and Price

A brown rubber strap, specially designed to complement the case’s angular lines, secures the watch to the wrist. It features a High-Intensity Titanium folding clasp with a push-button release for both security and comfort. The inner lining of the strap, detailed with an embossed lion paw motif, reinforces the thematic integrity down to the last detail. The watch is now available in the brand’s official boutiques and authorized retailers for €17,500.

Read more here.

General Specifications:

Brand: Grand Seiko

Model: Tokyo Lion Tentagraph

Reference: SLGC009

Dial: Beige with black chrono counters

Case Material: Grade 5 titanium

Case Dimensions: 43 mm Diameter, 15.60 mm thickness

Crystal: Sapphire glass

Case Back:  Sapphire glass

Water Resistance: 200 Meters

Strap: Brown rubber strap with a three-fold clasp

Calibre: 9Sc5

Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph

Winding: Automatic

Frequency: 5 Hz (36,000 Vph)

Jewels: 60

Power Reserve: 72 hours

Price:  € 17,500

Availability: Now

Limited Edition: No