Grand Seiko Evolution 9 SLGB007 and SLGB015 watches hands-on

In 2026, Grand Seiko’s Evolution 9 Collection has come a long way.

The 2025 U.F.A. technology marked a milestone in watchmaking, with Spring Drive delivering remarkable accuracy: ±20 seconds per year.

Thankfully, the SLGB003 “Ice Forest”, which introduced this technology, was just the beginning.

Grand Seiko has now added five Spring Drive U.F.A. references: four at 40 mm and one at 37 mm, each building on an established collection design, with additional refinements.

Four of the five new models use the brand’s proprietary Ever-Brilliant Steel. This gives buyers more choice and broadens the collection’s appeal, and the mechanical range has undergone a similar evolution.

The SLGB007 and SLGB015

Two references stand out, each for different reasons: the SLGB007 and SLGB015. Both have dials inspired by Lake Suwa in Nagano Prefecture. Both use the Spring Drive U.F.A. calibre 9RB2, with a 72-hour power reserve. The SLGB015 is essentially the steel counterpart to the titanium SLGB003.

The SLGB007 instead measures 40.0 mm across and 11.7 mm thick, compared with the SLGB015’s 11.4 mm. Its new black wave–pattern dial is paired with a High-Intensity Titanium case and bracelet.

The main differences are: the SLGB015 has a blue Lake Suwa dial, Ever-Brilliant Steel, and a 37 mm case; the SLGB007 has a black Lake Suwa dial with dark brown tones and a 40 mm titanium case.

Zaratsu-polished titanium needs little to no introduction. But Ever-Brilliant Steel’s wider use gives the Evolution 9 stronger appeal to buyers who prefer a more classic look, whether they already own a Grand Seiko or are considering their first.

A closer look at Ever-Brilliant Steel

Grand Seiko’s proprietary alloy deserves more attention than it gets. It offers a clear benefit: superior corrosion resistance, and more.

However, unlike 904L, Ever-Brilliant Steel is not a standardised alloy in the industry.

PREN—Pitting Resistance Equivalent Number—is a widely recognised measure of resistance to pitting corrosion instead. Grand Seiko claims a value above 40 for Ever-Brilliant Steel, placing it among the so-called “super stainless steels” and above the approximate 35 commonly associated with 904L.

From a wearer’s perspective, it offers better corrosion resistance and a brighter, whiter lustre than even the excellent 904L. Distortion-free Zaratsu polishing brings out that finish.

A tapered bracelet and the clever micro–adjustment system introduced in 2025 add to the SLGB015’s appeal. With its balanced proportions and fine finishing, this is the ultimate classic Evolution 9, and the Lake Suwa dial adds depth and a touch of sporting elegance.

The SLGB007 offers a more understated take on the same formula. Its High-Intensity Titanium construction makes it notably lighter and hypoallergenic.

Titanium is a favourite choice among those allergic to conventional metals. Its low weight is another benefit—one the luxury watch world has long since embraced.

Final thoughts

The Evolution 9 Collection stays true to Grand Seiko’s Grammar of Design, and the official image below shows just how much attention goes into every detail.

After putting the Ushio divers’ watches in the spotlight, Grand Seiko has followed up with a bold new release lineup. They all build on the SLGB003’s success and add even more depth to the Spring Drive range.

The two watches share the same design language, adapted to 37 mm and 40 mm cases. Both rank among the best in their class and list for €11,700 (titanium model) and €10,400 (steel version). Our pick is the 37 mm SLGB015.

It is elegant, shiny, beautifully finished and exceptionally accurate. A screw-down crown completes its 100-metre water-resistance rating.

The SLGB007 brings the same technology to a sportier three–hander. Its 40 mm case highlights two Evolution 9 hallmarks: a low centre of gravity and a comfortable fit on the wrist.

(Photo credit: Horbiter®)