SLGB025 (Green)
Grand Seiko’s “Evolution 9 Ushio 300 Diver,” showcased at Watches & Wonders this spring, is once again attracting attention. With ± high-precision Spring Drive caliber with a 20-second annual difference, a small 40.8mm case, and a beautiful dial inspired by trends, the endless appeal is revealed through real online reactions.
The most compact exterior in the brand’s history, featuring an ultra-high-precision movement that embodies Japanese aesthetics
Grand Seiko’s new model, the “Ushio 300 Diver SLGB023/SLGB025,” showcased at Watches & Wonders held this spring, is once again attracting attention.
Introduced from the Evolution 9 Collection, this diver’s watch combines Grand Seiko’s pursuit of precise time and high craftsmanship at a high level since the brand’s inception.
The first thing to note is the presence of the new Caliber 9RB1 movement, specially developed for this model.
This model was developed based on the Spring Drive U.F.A. (Ultra Fine Accuracy) Caliber 9RB2, which made headlines last year for achieving the world’s highest precision for a wind-up drive system of ± 20 seconds per year.
While the 9RB2 was adopted in dressier models like the “Evolution 9 SLGB003,” the 9RB1 inherits excellent precision performance while optimizing it for diver’s specifications, such as moving the power reserve display to the dial side.
Furthermore, the case made of bright titanium boasts a slim design measuring 40.8mm in diameter and 12.9mm thick—the most compact in Grand Seiko’s diver’s history—and achieving water resistance up to 300m.
Additionally, in terms of design, the design draws inspiration from Japan’s geographical characteristics as an island nation surrounded by the sea on all sides, reproducing the dynamic currents of the tide with wave-patterned molded patterns and gradient dials.
“12.9mm thick is amazing,” “Non-date!” “Green is nice”—anticipatory voices flying around online
With the return of Divers for Grand Seiko after a long time, the news was abuzz online right after its announcement.
Regarding the long-awaited reduction in size, there were delighted comments such as, “12.9mm thick, that’s amazing,” “It’s on par with the classic heritage ‘SBGR315′,” and “It seems easy to fit Japanese wrists.” Fans who tried it on at the owners’ event commented, “The size and fit on the arm were amazing.”
While expectations are high for its versatile size, which can cover everything from everyday use to active occasions, some highly praise its integrity, saying, “The non-date watch is wonderful. I never thought a diver’s watch would need a date,” while others said, “I wish the power reserve was removed for a symmetrical design,” and “It looks off-balance.” When it comes to symmetrical design, you can see the unique dedication of enthusiasts.
As for the color, many are drawn to the freshness of the green dial, saying things like, “I’m torn between blue and green. I have a lot of blue tones on hand, so maybe green,” and “Green is rare and nice.” Some people are hoping for the classic black line, saying things like, ‘It’s a shame there’s no classic black,’ or ‘It might come out next year.’
On the other hand, what inevitably draws attention is the price of 1,650,000 yen including tax. While sighing by quoting Rolex’s masterpieces like “Submariner-inspired pricing” and “Is it more expensive than the Submarine?”, there are also positive reviews such as “The ultimate practical diver beyond the Submariner” and “Let’s keep earning without losing to outer bras.”
In any case, the “Ushio 300 Diver” brilliantly combines high specs as a tool, exquisite size, and refined aesthetics. Experience its true value in-store with the dial’s brilliance and flowing hands.
SLGB023 (Blue)
Product Specifications
“Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection Spring Drive U.F.A. Ushio 300 Diver”
・Model number: SLGB023 (Blue), SLGB025 (Green)
・Price (tax included): 1,650,000 yen
・Case size: 40.8mm diameter, 12.9mm thickness
・Case, bezel: Bright titanium (bezel display plate: ceramic)
・Bracelet: Bright titanium (slide-lock extender with fine adjustment mechanism)
・Crystal: Sapphire glass, non-reflective coating on the interior
・Movement: Automatic (with manual winding) Spring Drive movement, Caliber 9RB1 (annual ± 20 seconds, average monthly difference ± 3 seconds)
・Operating time: Power reserve approx. 72 hours
・Water resistance: 300m diving water resistance
