Seiko is using its 145th anniversary to expand the Astron collection with a new GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph, led by the limited-edition HAB004.
The release fits the Astron name well, even if the anniversary itself is not a conventional milestone, because this is the Seiko family most closely tied to forward-looking timekeeping.
Astron remains Seiko’s technology showcase
The Astron name dates back to Seiko’s first quartz wristwatch from 1969, a model that changed the direction of modern watchmaking.
Today’s Astron line carries that same spirit through GPS-controlled time setting, solar charging and a distinctly contemporary design language.
The anniversary model gets titanium and a blue-gray dial
The limited HAB004 uses a multifaceted titanium case with Seiko’s super-hard coating, paired with a bracelet that gives the watch a lightly integrated profile.
At 43.4mm across and just over 12mm thick, it is still a sizeable sports watch, but the relatively slim case height and angular surfaces should help it sit flatter than the diameter suggests.
The anniversary dial combines gray and blue with a geometric grid pattern, giving the watch a more architectural look than a conventional travel chronograph.
Caliber 5X63 adds chronograph functionality to GPS timekeeping
Inside is Seiko’s new Caliber 5X63, a solar-powered GPS movement that combines dual-time functionality with a chronograph.
The system allows the wearer to sync the watch to local time by connecting to GPS satellites, making it especially useful for frequent travel across time zones.
The movement also brings a revised dial arrangement, with subdials at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock and a round date display positioned at 4:30.
Three regular-production models join the lineup
Alongside the 145th anniversary edition, Seiko is adding three non-limited references with the same case, movement and dial layout.
The HAB001 comes with a blue dial, the HAB002 with a black dial, and the HAB003 adds black-and-gold detailing with a gold-toned inner bezel ring.
The HAB003 is also the only model in this group offered on a rubber strap, which gives it the sportiest personality of the four.
The limited-edition HAB004 is priced at $2,900 and production is capped at 2,000 pieces, while the HAB001 and HAB002 are priced at $2,700 and the HAB003 at $2,600.
For collectors who want Seiko at its most technically modern rather than its most nostalgic, these new Astrons make a clear case for the anniversary treatment.
