At the latest edition of Watches and Wonders, the Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection SLGB006 “Ice Forest at Dawn” was presented. A step forward in watchmaking precision, as Grand Seiko introduced a caliber it called “the most precise spring-driven watch movement in the world,” the Spring Drive U.F.A. This unique movement is dressed in gold for a highly limited edition of 80 units, once again paying tribute to the frost-covered forests of its birthplace, Shinshu.
“The birthplace of all Grand Seiko Spring Drive watches, the Shinshu Watch Studio, is located in central Japan, a mountainous region known for its harsh winters. Just a few kilometers away, the Kirigamine highlands are famous for their so-called ‘ice forests,’ larch trees that, on the coldest days of the year, are covered in a sparkling layer of ice that gleams in the warm light of the winter dawn.”
Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection SLGB006 “Ice Forest at Dawn”
A watch presented during the Watches and Wonders 2026 haute horlogerie salon that I loved for its combination of elements: its case, its caliber, and the craftsmanship of the dial—a style that recalls classic designs, yet dressed in its gold case.
Through its “Ice Forest” pattern and the delicate jet-black dial with a gradient that sparkles with countless particles, this new creation evokes this fleeting landscape. Contrasting against it are the applied indexes and golden hands, grooved and cut to ensure maximum legibility.
The case is made of 18K yellow gold and features a diameter of 37mm and a thickness of 11.4mm. The front crystal is a box-shaped sapphire with an anti-reflective coating. It features an exhibition case back with sapphire crystal and is water-resistant up to 10 bar (100 meters).
The caliber inside is the Spring Drive 9RB2, an automatic mechanical movement with a power reserve of approximately 72 hours. It features a power reserve indicator. Its precision is ±20 seconds per year (approx. ±3 seconds per month).
The strap is made of crocodile leather and features a three-fold clasp in 18K yellow gold with a push-button release.
Price
The approximate retail price is €44,700. Grand Seiko
