SpotlightBreaking Ground: Seiko Astron GPS Debuts The New Calibre 5X83

In 2012, Seiko made waves in horology with the groundbreaking Astron GPS Solar timepiece. Its standout feature was its seamless connection to the Global Positioning System (GPS), effortlessly adjusting to any timezone with just a touch. What made it even more remarkable was its self-sustaining power source, drawing energy from light or solar power. Over the years, the Astron collection has seen various evolutions. In the latest installment, Seiko introduces the Calibre 5X83, marking a significant milestone in the Astron’s journey. This innovative movement merges dual-time technology with a chronograph function for the very first time. The pinnacle of this advancement is showcased in the Seiko Astron GPS Solar Kintaro Hattori Limited Edition (SSH156), adorned with gold accents. This special edition pays tribute to the 100th anniversary of the Seiko brand and the enduring legacy of its founder, Kintaro Hattori.

The Seiko Astron GPS Solar Kintaro Hattori Limited Edition 

The special black and gold Seiko Astron GPS Solar Kintaro Hattori Limited Edition celebrates Seiko’s 100th anniversary. Even though Seiko started back in 1881, it wasn’t until 1924 that they made their first wristwatch with the name ‘Seiko’ on it, which really kicked off the Seiko brand. This limited-edition watch is only available in 1,000 pieces worldwide.

Embodying Seiko’s ethos of staying ‘Always one step ahead of the rest’, this watch represents a leap forward in watchmaking technology. It boasts the groundbreaking Calibre 5X83 movement, which ingeniously combines dual-time technology with a chronograph function for the first time ever. This movement seamlessly synchronises with the GPS network up to twice a day, ensuring unparalleled precision no matter where you are in the world. Additionally, manual synchronisation is effortlessly achieved with the push of a button, harnessing the power of light to maintain its accuracy.

The timepiece marks the very first time a movement (Calibre 5X83) combines Dual-Time technology with a chronograph function

A unique feature of this timepiece is its ability to switch between the time displayed on the main dial and the six o’clock sub-dial. By holding down two buttons for three seconds, the hands on both dials move simultaneously, facilitating swift time zone adjustments. This advancement in the Calibre 5X83 movement enhances efficiency compared to its predecessor, the Calibre 5X53. Turning the watch over reveals a yellow-gold-coloured caseback, adorned with the name of the founder, Kintaro Hattori, and the iconic ‘S’ trademark. This symbol, registered in 1900, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Seikosha factory and its commitment to excellence.

The sunray-patterned black dial features yellow-gold-colored accented subdials at 12 and 6 o’ clock

On the back sits a yellow-gold-colored case back which features the name of the founder and the trademark “S” that was registered in 1900 as a symbol of the Seikosha factory

The Seiko Astron GPS Solar Kintaro Hattori Limited Edition showcases a timeless design housed within a classic 43mm titanium case, adorned with a sleek black super-hard coating. Its bezel, crafted from a blend of ceramic and titanium, boasts a distinctive two-part construction. The upper portion features a multi-faceted ceramic finish, complemented by a yellow-gold-coloured titanium frame. The sunray-patterned black dial serves as a striking backdrop for the intricate details of this timepiece. Highlighted by yellow-gold-coloured accents, the sub-dials positioned at 12 and six o’clock catch the eye. The sub-dial at 12 o’clock breaks new ground for Seiko Astron watches, measuring elapsed time in precise increments of 1/20th of a second. Meanwhile, the sub-dial at six o’clock serves a dual purpose, displaying the time in a secondary time zone and seamlessly transforming into a 12-hour counter when the stopwatch function is activated.

Limited to just 1,000 pieces worldwide, this special edition watch is presented on a black titanium three-link bracelet. The centre links of the bracelet are meticulously crafted from ceramic, adding both durability and a touch of sophistication to the overall design.