The legendary Japanese manufacturer Grand Seiko offers its unique interpretation of one of the classic complications of luxury watchmaking with its first automatic chronograph model, the Tentagraph.
Ten-T-A-Graph is a combination of the words and letters "Ten" for balance that makes 10 beats per second, "T"hree for 3-day power reserve, "A"automatic for the automatic winding system, and finally Chrono"Graph" for the chronograph function. Grand Seiko's superior craftsmanship, combined with cutting-edge technology and a timeless design, greets watch enthusiasts.
The SLGC001 comes with a 43.2mm diameter and a 15.3mm thick case. The lug-to-lug distance of the case is 51.5mm. By looking at these measurements, a bold wrist presence would not be a surprise. To wear Tentagraph proudly, you must have an average or preferably slightly above wrist size. The case and bracelet of the watch are made of high-density titanium, which is lighter and more durable than stainless steel. Some watch lovers think the lightness of the titanium alloys decreases the solid feel of the watches. However, this would not be the case for the Tentagraph as the watch weighs a whopping 154 grams. This weight, which is might even light considering the measurements, offers a nice and solid feel on the wrist. In the meantime, neither its dimensions nor its weight cause any discomfort on the wrist thanks to its brilliantly designed case and bracelet. The lugs are sharp with Zaratsu polished bevel running on the side of the case with a delightful contrast. In short, Tentagraph’s case manages to reflect its build quality and solid presence to the user effortlessly. Regarding the pushers, I am very happy to see GS has finally made decently sized pushers and doesn’t use oversized pushers anymore, as they did in the previous Spring Drive chronographs.
The new model hosts a magnificent dial as usual. Tri-Compax chronograph layout offers excellent balance with the counters located at 3-6-9 o’clock. The date display rests at 4:30. Thanks to the matching color of the date disc, the display does not ruin the balanced look of the dial. The hands and indices are classic for the Grand Seiko’s Evolution 9 product line, thick, meticulously detailed, and highly luminous. The dial offers an excellent, deep blue tone with a unique sunray pattern, inspired by Mt. Iwate.
Grand Seiko Tentagraph SLGC001 beats with the manufacture Caliber 9SC5. Based on the Caliber 9SA5, the automatic movement beats at 5Hz (36.000vph) and offers a 72-hour power reserve with its twin-barrel winding system. The new caliber is home to the brand’s patented Dual Impulse feature along with column-wheel and vertical clutch architecture, with a three-pointed hammer. Caliber 9SC5 has 60 jewels, measures 33mm x 8mm, and offers a chronograph with central seconds, 30-minute and 12-hour counters, and date functions.
A nicely designed and well-built metal bracelet compliments the new model. Also made of high-density titanium alloy, the 22mm lug-width bracelet offers perfect wrist balance and excellent comfort with its micro-adjustment folding clasp.
After a 60-year wait, I am very glad to see Grand Seiko offering a fully-mechanical chronograph. 1960’s Grammar of Design is excellent; the finishing is unrivaled and the movement is an engineering marvel. The only thing I can criticize regarding the Tentagraph is its slightly above-average dimensions. However, let's not forget that this might be a reason for preference for some users.
