On December 25th fifty years ago, Seiko introduced the world’s first quartz wristwatch. It was a watch that revolutionized the watchmaking industry and its launch remains one of the most important landmarks in Seiko’s history. The Quartz Astron set a new standard in wristwatch precision with an accuracy rate of ±5 seconds per month, made possible by several technological advances including the tuning fork shaped quartz oscillator and the open type step motor which are still standard components of quartz watches today. Soon after the launch of the Quartz Astron, Seiko opened most of its patents to the world, a move that helped bring the advantages of quartz timekeeping within the reach of all. In 2004, the Quartz Astron received the IEEE Milestone Award for its breakthrough contribution which is today widely used not only in horology but also in a vast range of other electronic applications. The Seiko Quartz Astron is recognized as one of Japan’s greatest achievements, giving all mankind access to high precision timekeeping and changing the way time was told around the world.
The Astron name was revived in 2012 when the world’s first GPS solar watch was launched. Like its predecessor, the Astron GPS Solar took electronic watchmaking to new levels with its ability to connect to the GPS network and adjust to every time zone* at the touch of a button while taking all the energy it needed from light, never needing a battery change.
*If there are changes in the region / time zone / DST manual selection may be required.
The 1969 Quartz Astron that began a watchmaking revolution
THE SPIRIT OF THE 1969 ASTRON IS REFLECTED IN EVERY ASPECT OF THE DESIGN
A NEW SLIM GPS SOLAR CALIBER, A SLIM PROFILE
The case back with horseshoe shaped marking commemorating the 50th anniversary of Quartz Astron
The watch is offered in a special wooden box with the Quartz Astron 50th Anniversary logo
This watch is available as a limited edition of just 50 in December, 2019 at selected Seiko boutiques.
SBXD002
THE 1969 QUARTZ ASTRON 50TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION
Caliber 3X22:
GPS controlled time and time zone adjustment
Perpetual calendar correct to the year 2100
High Speed Time Zone adjustment
Signal reception result indication
Power save function
Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month (without receiving a GPS signal and at temperatures between 5°C and 35°C)
Specifications:
18K yellow gold case and clasp
Box-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Diameter: 40.9mm, Thickness: 12.8mm
Crocodile strap with three-fold clasp with push button release
Approximate recommended retail price in Europe: €38,000
Limited edition of 50
