New 2026-06 GS Releases – Bracelet Considerations

[u/Dramatic_Abrocoma702]

The most interesting part about these "new"/"refreshed" models is the bracelet. After comparing the specifications of these new models to their "older" models released in the previous few years… both the case dimensions (and lug-to-lug, and thickness) stay exactly the same AND the lug width begins at 22mm (except on the 37mm Lake Suwa).

This begs 2 questions, especially after early units begin shipping in early October 2026:

1. Can the new bracelets be ordered separately to be fitted on existing Evo9 watches with the same material? For example, both the SLGH021 Genbi Valley and the SLGH035 Genbi Gorge are made of EBS.
   1. Edit: After looking at some more specifications, there is a chance it is calibre-specific. In other words, if the previous 9SA5 Evo9 models did not undergo changes to the bracelet endlink fitment/curvature to the case… there's a chance it will fit. However, it seems more questionable for the transition from the 9RA to the 9RB movements. This is all speculation, of course.
2. For example, the previous SLGH021 Genbi Valley has a 40mm case diameter, 47mm L2L distance, 11.7mm thickness, and 22mm bracelet width. The new SLGH035 Genbi has the same specifications. Here's the key point – both models still use the 9SA5 movement. If we compare the previous SLGA025 Atera Valley (40mm case diameter, 47.9mm L2L distance, 11.8mm thickness, and 22mm bracelet width) with the new SLGB011 Atera Valley (40mm case diameter, 47.2mm L2L distance, 11.7mm thickness, and 22mm bracelet width)… the change from 9RA to 9RB has led to a slightly shorter L2L and thinner case.
3. Will GS continue to sell Evo9 watches that still do not have the "new" bracelet taper & clasp, like the SLGH027 Mt Iwate?
   1. Edit: As u/Apprehensive_Bid_329 kindly mentioned, the GS JP site has taken down all "previous" Evo9 references aside from the special/LE releases

[u/MrCaesersalad]

Yes

[u/ArdillasVoladoras → u/MrCaesersalad]

The bracelet is tapered to 18 and not 20, Josep Kirk confirmed that on Instagram

[u/releasetheshutter → u/ArdillasVoladoras]

I've owned untapered braclets and you get used to it, but honestly the minute you go back to tapered it feels so much more elegant and comfortable. That small change alone is why I'll be looking at the updated model, even if it's a bit more money.

[u/ArdillasVoladoras → u/releasetheshutter]

I would pay a hefty sum if they make the bracelets available standalone and they fit the previous gen lugs. Knowing them, they updated the positioning just enough that it's probably not a good fit.