In 2012, Seiko made a groundbreaking leap in electronic watchmaking with the introduction of the Seiko Astron GPS Solar, a timepiece that not only connects to the Global Positioning System (GPS) but also harnesses energy from light alone. Now, Seiko takes another stride towards the future of watch design with the launch of a new series within the Astron GPS Solar collection. This collection features four stunning watches that boast a dynamic and robust design, sure to captivate the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide.
The upcoming series introduces three remarkable additions to the main Astron collection, each showcasing a distinct dial color in blue, grey, and black. Additionally, a limited-edition timepiece graces this collection with its unique horizontally-striped design. Starting from June 2023, these four watches will be available at Seiko Boutiques and select retail stores, allowing enthusiasts to experience their remarkable features firsthand.
Aesthetic Brilliance: The new series impresses with its dimensional case and a faceted bezel featuring hairline finishing on the top surface, providing a striking contrast against the polished sides. The sleek case seamlessly merges with the lugs, leading to an integrated bracelet with a sharp design that harmonizes with the angular case, lending an air of sophistication to the watches. Crafted from lightweight titanium, both the case and bracelet are coated with a scratch-resistant super-hard coating. The watches sit comfortably on the wrist, thanks to the low center of gravity and the lightweight nature of titanium.
Dial Design and Functionality: The dials of all four watches exhibit a simple yet elegant design, featuring a single sub-dial at 8 o’clock. This sub-dial not only indicates the receiving process of GPS satellites but also provides information on the watch’s charging status, leap second data receipt, and in-flight mode. The applied indexes and hour and minute hands, filled with luminescent Lumibrite material, perfectly match the color of the bezel, ensuring easy readability in any lighting condition. The blue, grey, and black dials incorporate a pattern reminiscent of the quartz crystals used in the original Quartz Astron introduced by Seiko in 1969, paying homage to the enduring legacy of accuracy associated with the Astron name.
Cutting-Edge Movement: Each watch within the new series is powered by the advanced GPS Solar movement, Caliber 3X62. With enhanced solar signal reception, this movement allows for greater design flexibility while ensuring unmatched precision. Twice a day, the watch automatically connects to the GPS network, maintaining accuracy to within one second every 100,000 years. In the absence of sunlight, the watch remembers its last successful manual connection time and attempts to receive the GPS signal again at that specific moment, further showcasing its intelligent functionality.
Beyond Timekeeping: The Caliber 3X62 movement offers more than just precise timekeeping. It boasts a perpetual calendar correct until the year 2100, ensuring you stay on track with dates and appointments. The high-speed time zone adjustment enables effortless transitions between time zones, perfect for the modern globetrotter. The watch also features a power-saving function, preserving energy when not in use. With an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month, even without receiving a GPS signal, this timepiece stands as a testament to Seiko’s commitment to precision craftsmanship.
The new design series of Seiko Astron GPS Solar watches represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of timekeeping technology. Combining impeccable design with cutting-edge functionality, these timepieces provide a glimpse into the future of watchmaking. Whether you seek unrivaled accuracy or a sophisticated aesthetic.
