It’s only been a few months since Seiko introduced its first Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph with the new caliber 5X83. Today, the Japanese brand has announced four more chronographs powered by the same movement. The line expands with the standard production SSH159, SSH161, and SSH163, plus the limited edition SSH158 in titanium and ceramic. The watch is slightly smaller than the previously released model and introduces a new dial. The limited edition of 1,200 pieces presents a blacked-out aesthetic with rose gold elements. It’s time to find out more about these new Seiko Astron chronographs.
When Seiko announced the first four models in this series back in March, it was big news for the Astron line. These watches were the first Astron models to combine Astron GPS Solar Dual Time technology with a chronograph. As Thomas explained in his introductory article, this was possible thanks to the new 5X83 movement. The ones released today follow the overall style of the first series, but are quite different. Let’s take a look at some details to find out more.
Standard production Astron SSH159, SSH161, SSH163
The SSH159, SSH161, and SSH163 are the regular models in full titanium. The watch features a 42mm case, 12.4mm thick, and 49.5mm lug-to-lug length. These dimensions make the SSH159, SSH161, and SSH163 1.3mm smaller and 1mm thinner than the previously introduced models. The case is similarly sharp and angular in design, giving it a modern look. The main exterior difference is the bezel design. Three of the first four models had a black ceramic 60-minute chronograph bezel, but these new models feature a large, sloped titanium bezel. The three watches are fitted with a titanium H-link bracelet that, like the case, has an ultra-hard coating to prevent scratches.
The case is primarily brushed, with polish where it’s needed, typical of Seiko. The bezel, bevels, and chronograph pushers all stand out with a sheen that catches the light. They create visual contrast and also show the attention to detail that Seiko puts into creating these premium models. If you’ve ever worn or owned a Seiko Astron, you’ll know that it’s a cut above the average Prospex or Presage watch.
New dial with vertical pattern
Zooming in on the dial reveals a vertically brushed pattern. I like this new dial because it gives the watch an organic feel. Usually, Astron dials are futuristic, but this one strays from that theme a bit. Seiko offers three classic colors to choose from: the SSH159 with a white dial, the SSH161 with a dark blue dial, and the SSH163 with a black dial. At first glance, I preferred the white version. It is a complex dial with transparent subdials with silvered edges, a pure white flange that holds the minute track and stainless steel hour markers, and a white rehaut with a UTC scale.
The blue dial version combines a beautiful, rich dark blue with black, white and silver elements. It looks very premium, especially when combined with the deep shade of titanium. The black dial model is a bit more simple, combining a base color with white and silver elements. All three versions have luminous hour and minute hands, and the hour markers also have small luminous dots.
While the black version may be the most common, I prefer the blue and white version because it brings something special to the table, and I especially like the white dial version, as it looks layered and complex.
Familiar 5X83 dial layout
These new watches, like the March ones, feature subdials at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock. As you may know, the 5X83 movement displays the main time in the center, with an alternative time zone in the subdial at 6 o’clock. As a practical feature, the wearer can switch between them by pressing and holding the two pushers for three seconds. However, when the chronograph is activated, the same subdial becomes a total counter of elapsed hours and minutes. Next to that subdial is the AM/PM indicator, and a date window is built in between the 4 and 5 o’clock indexes.
The subdial at 9 o’clock is also multifunctional, displaying the day of the week, chronograph operation, charging status and airplane mode. Finally, the subdial at 12 o’clock displays the elapsed chronograph time to 1/20th of a second. All three subdials feature a concentric graining that contrasts beautifully with the vertical brushing of the base dial. This latter component also doubles as a solar panel for charging the watch.
A watch packed with cutting-edge technology
This technology has many applications: the time is automatically adjusted when the wearer travels through different time zones; if the watch loses the signal that allows it to automatically adjust the time, this is indicated on the dial; and even in the absence of a signal, the movement remains accurate to within ±15 seconds per month.
In addition to the dual time and chronograph complications, the 5X83 movement also offers a perpetual calendar that will run accurately until the year 2100. This makes these new Astron models fantastic multi-function tool watches that are also beautiful to look at.
These watches combine superior materials and finishes with the latest technology. Yet, on the wrist, they don’t feel like technological marvels. The lightweight watches are very traditional in look and fit. And I mean that in the best sense. There’s a lot to like in the design, dimensions, and overall wearability. The bracelet features a relatively unassuming folding clasp with a smart adjuster feature for precise sizing.
Wearing SSH159, SSH161, SSH163
I was pleasantly surprised because I really liked these three new models. I usually don’t like the Astron design very much, as I find it too futuristic and technical for my taste. However, these three new watches have a less technical influence in the design. They have a more modern mechanical watch vibe, which I like. Also, the Seiko and Astron logos are a constant reminder of what kind of watch I’m wearing. But it’s not a bad reminder, because these three models look great, fit comfortably, and show that Seiko is making an effort to make their more technical watches more beautiful.
At 2,600 euros a piece, the new lightweight (106g) Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronographs are a great addition to the Seiko lineup. If you’re a fan of Seiko’s Astron series, you’ll love this one. But even if you’re not, give this watch a try if you can. I think it’s the least tech-y feeling of the Astron models, which is a big plus. Add in the hairline-finished dials, and these are almost covert Astrons, in the best sense of the word.
Limited Edition Astron SSH158
But the story doesn’t end there. The new SSH158 is a limited edition of 1,200 pieces celebrating 100 years since the Seiko name appeared on the company’s watches. This black and rose-tone watch has a slightly different design. Like the limited edition SSH156 released in March, this watch features a black-coated titanium case that is 43.4mm wide and 49.5mm lug-to-lug. A glossy black ceramic and sapphire crystal sits on top, giving the watch a thickness of 14.1mm. However, while the SSH156 had yellow gold-colored accents, the SSH158 uses rose gold-colored accents. This includes the decorative dodecagonal titanium rim of the bezel, the crown, and the pushers.
The SSH158 comes with a black bracelet and black dial, giving it a fairly understated look, but the gold details add some aesthetic flair in celebration of the 100th anniversary. The bracelet features a beautiful combination of finishes and materials, with brushed black titanium outer links and polished ceramic center links.
SSH158 dial design
The SSH158’s black dial features a radial stripe pattern, which makes it look much more futuristic than the dials on other models. Contrasting with the dark background, the dial also features rose-tone accents to match the bezel and pushers. The hour markers and hands are finished with Seiko’s Lumibrite. Not only does this make it easy to read the time in the dark, but the white Lumibrite adds a splash of bright color.
The SSH158 is equipped with the same 5X83 movement, so the dial layout follows the design of the other three models. The numerals and other markings on the dial are white, but not too bright, allowing the rose-toned elements and white lume to stand out. Flip the watch over and you’ll see a raised globe-shaped marking on the back. Additionally, you’ll find the LE number engraved on the watch, as well as text indicating that this watch was made for a special occasion.
As mentioned above, the SSH158 will be limited to 1,200 pieces worldwide. It will be available on October 1st, 2024 for €3,200. The other three models will be added to the collection periodically and will be available on November 1st, 2024 for €2,600. All will be available on the Seiko website, Seiko boutiques, and select Seiko dealers. Let us know in the comments which of the four is your favorite!
