One of the flagship high-tech analogue watches in Seiko’s catalogue, the Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph has been reworked to give it visual elements more typically associated with Seiko’s higher-end mechanical watches.

Amongst other things, the new Astron GPS chronograph features a sapphire-covered bezel, diamond-milled chapter rings, and facetted case details. It still retains the multi-function 5X83 movement that features GPS time- and time zone setting, perpetual calendar, and a six month power reserve on a full charge.

Initial thoughts

Someone recently asked me to recommend a useful watch for a person who has no interest in mechanical timepieces, with the condition that the watch has to be analogue and not look like a gadget. The Astron GPS chronograph fits the bill.

The model’s newest iterations, four in all, have the styling details of a mechanical watch while having a multitude of high-tech features. One of its most useful features is the GPS time setting, which means the watch syncs with a GPS satellite and then displays the local time zone when travelling.

The black and blue dial versions are especially restrained and well suited as a low-key everyday watch, though still a little large at over 44 mm in diameter.

Useful watchmaking

When sunlight is detected, the Astron GPS chronograph syncs with a GPS satellite automatically up to twice a day, while manual syncing can be done via a pusher in the case. Sunlight also powers the watch – under the dial is a solar cell – which will run for up to six months on a full charge.

Despite its multiple functions, the Astron GPS chronograph has a relatively clean face. The dial has sub-dials for the chronograph, second time zone, and perpetual calendar. The registers at six and 12 o’clock are diamond milled, giving them sharp edges and polished faces that catch the light.

The large case is titanium and finished with brushed surfaces accented by polished edges, including the chronograph pushers. The minute-scale bezel is covered by sapphire crystal.

The model debuts in four variants, including the SSH180 that’s a limited edition of 1,500 pieces. This features rose gold-plated accents on the bezel and dial, along with ceramic centre links for the bracelet.

Key facts and price

Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph
Refs. SSH175, SSH177, SSH179, and SSH180

Diameter: 44.1 mm (SSH180 44.3 mm)
Height: 14.4 mm
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 5X83
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, day, date, chronograph, perpetual calendar, and world-time
Winding: GPS Solar
Power reserve: 6 months

Strap: Matching titanium bracelet

Limited edition: Regular production, except 1,500 pieces for SSH180
Availability: Available at Seiko boutiques and retailers starting May 2025
Price: US$3,100 for SSH175 and SSH177; US$3,300 for SSH179 and SSH180

For more, visit seikowatches.com.