It was a watch that shook the world. The Seiko Astron was the first mass-produced quartz watch that really won over huge sections of the public. Price matters – it does now, and it did back in the latet 60s too, which is why the average person decided that buying an Astron, at a price well below a Swiss watch, was a smart move.
So today, Seiko celebrates the life, career and achievements of Kintaro Hattori, with a limited edition Astron GPS Solar watch.
In 2012, Seiko demonstrated its leadership in high technology watchmaking with the world’s first GPS Solar watch. By connecting to the GPS network, Astron adjusts at the touch of a button to every time zone on earth and, by taking all the energy it needs from light alone, never needs a battery change. It offers local time with atomic clock precision on your wrist, wherever you are on earth.
Today, eight years on, the latest generation of Astron GPS Solar technology powers the new Kintaro Hattori 160th Anniversary. It’s a different piece of tech compared to the world’s first quartz watch from 1969, but the aim is the same; total accuracy when it comes to timekeeping.
The watch case and bracelet are in titanium with a scratch-resistant hard-coating. The bezel is made from Zirconia ceramic and has sixteen facets, one for each decade since Kintaro’s birth. With its deep black tones, gold tone accents and high gloss bezel, the watch has a commanding presence on the wrist that befits its heritage. You also get a croc leather strap as part of the package.
Limited Edition Details
The case back carries Kintaro’s name and three reminders of his legacy. The trademark “S” that he registered in 1900 occupies the center of the case back. His motto “One step ahead of the rest” appears above it and the name Seiko which was first used in 1924 is on the rim.
We absolutely love the gold pushers, crown and hands – they really stand out from the black dial and bracelet. It’s a classic combo and we reckon it’s a tool watch that will suit many enthusiasts. Great everyday timepiece.
The watch is offered in a special presentation box with a commemorative “S” badge and includes a card carrying a message from Kintaro’s great-grandson Shinji Hattori. It will be available in October, at Seiko Boutiques and at selected retail partners worldwide.