Seiko is marking its 145th anniversary by continuing to push the envelope for high-end quartz. The Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph is a series of four new references featuring a new multi-function quartz calibre, a streamlined case, and a push-button interchangeable strap system compatible with both the standard titanium bracelet and a range of silicone straps.
Initial thoughts
Since 1969, Seiko has been at the forefront of quartz technology, and since 2012 the brand has commercialised a range of GPS-synced solar-powered quartz watches under the Astron banner — named in honour of the groundbreaking 1969 original.
The contemporary Astron models have taken quartz timekeeping about as far as it can go. Left on it’s own, it’s not the most accurate quartz watch, but the satellite link keeps the time in sync with network time and automatically adjusts to local time when travelling.
Reference HAB002.
Given the amount of technology packed inside — including a solar power unit — the Astron has always been a big watch. At 43.4 mm, the new Dual-Time Chronograph is not a small watch, but at just 12.4 mm thick it’s about 1 mm thinner than its predecessor, which is a welcome improvement.
The bigger news, however, is outside the case: a new interchangeable strap and bracelet system. Bracelets have long been an achilles heel for both Seiko and Grand Seiko. The latter made big strides this year with a new bracelet for the Spring Drive UFA Ushio 300 Diver, and now Seiko has launched its own new bracelet technology with a push-button system built into the end link.
For those who associate quartz with the Casio G-Shock, Swatch MoonSwatch and Apple Watch, the four-figure pricing of the Astron can seem high. But it’s rare piece of modern hardware with genuine technical differentiation. It doesn’t require a charging cable, its firmware is designed for longevity, and the hard-coated titanium construction should look like new for many years.
In other words, it’s engineered to look good and work well long after most other quartz watches have deteriorated or become obsolete. And for those who prize Japanese craftsmanship, the Astron is still made in Japan, even as the brand has moved production of its entry-level watches offshore.
Quick-change bracelet
The interchangeable bracelet system features a push-button release integrated into the end link. In practice, the system is similar to that of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas. Because the end link itself connects to the case via spring bars, it might be possible to retrofit this system to existing Astron models, but the brand has not advertised this possibility. Regardless, it appears to be a versatile and clever solution, if a bit bulky.
A complete collection
Limited to 2,000 pieces, the ref. HAB004 anniversary edition comes complete with a blue-and-white silicone strap in addition to the standard titanium bracelet. The bi-colour strap pairs well with the light blue dial, and more than offsets the limited edition’s pricing premium, since the retail price of a standalone silicone strap is about €210.
Reference HAB004 is limited to 2,000 pieces and includes a blue and white silicone strap.
In addition, three models join the permanent collection: HAB001 (dark blue), HAB002 (grey/blue), and HAB003, which features gold-coloured dial furniture and skips the bracelet in lieu of a standard black silicone strap.
Reference HAB003 comes on a standard black silicone strap.
A new calibre
The Astron is powered by the new cal. 5X63, which helps slim down the watch while offering a long list of features that includes solar charging, network time synchronisation, automatic local time adjustment, automatic daylight saving time (DST) adjustment, perpetual calendar, second time zone, and a chronograph with 1/20th-of-a-second resolution. In short, it’s a complete timekeeper.
Reference HAB001.
The movement itself isn’t any more accurate than a typical quartz watch, rated to +/- 15 seconds per month without GPS sync. But in daily use, the Astron will stay in sync with network time, making any additional effort to improve native accuracy largely academic.
Key facts and price
Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph
Refs. HAB001, HAB002, HAB003, and HAB004
Diameter: 43.4
Height: 12.4 mm
Material: Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m
Movement: Cal. 5X63
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, day, date, chronograph, perpetual calendar, and world-time
Winding: GPS Solar
Power reserve: 6 months
Strap: Interchangeable titanium bracelet or rubber strap
Limited edition: Regular production, except 2,000 pieces for HAB004
Availability: Available at Seiko boutiques and retailers starting June 2026
Price: €2,700 (HAB003), €2,800 (HAB001, HAB002), €3,000 (HAB004)
For more, visit seikowatches.com.
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