SEIKO Picks of 2017
Seiko Astron GPS Solar
Seiko launched the Astron GPS Solar at Baselworld 2012 and five years onward, the range of Astron GPS Solar calibres continues to grow in line with the ever-widening demand for smart watch technologies. The new 8X42 brings the number of active GPS Solar calibers to four in the Astron range and adds a new note of relaxed elegance to the Astron design. This new series is slated for release this month.
Like all Astron GPS Solar calibers, 8X42 offers the remarkable ability to adjust to local time anywhere in the world with the simple touch of a button using just the power of light. With the addition of the big date window, the inclusion of a dual-time dial at the six o’clock position and new, slimmer hands, the new designs have a refinement that make them as perfect for an evening out as they are for international travel. With several versions featuring Roman numerals for the first time in any Astron design and with more components having mirror-finished surfaces, the Astron dress watch has truly arrived.
The 8X42 core collection comprises four models in stainless steel and three in titanium, but all offer a remarkable level of scratch resistance thanks to their ceramic bezels, sapphire crystals and super-hard coatings. New coating technology allows even the rose gold tone designs to be highly resistant to scratches, ensuring that the luxury look of every Astron 8X42 watch lasts as long as possible.
Grand Seiko SBGA211
The successor to the iconic SBGA011, the SBGA211 continues on a proud legacy of excellence and elegance through simplicity. The 41-millimetre case and bracelet are comprised of a high-intensity scratch and corrosion resistant titanium that is 30% lighter than stainless steel. The bezel, lugs and bracelet are all carefully crafted with a cold, polished titanium finish.
Tradition continues with the iconic arctic scheme from the SBGA011 a familiar sight. The powdery white raised with beautifully subtle texture that complement the polished steel numerals – fitting of the nickname “Snowflake”. The blue steel second hand is a fine detail that smoothly glides across the wintery face, exemplary of the ingenious 9R Spring Drive movement. The SBGA211’s brilliant Calibre 9R65 backs the movement in this wristwatch. Equal parts power and equal parts grace, the Snowflake is for the cool, the calm and collected.
Grand Seiko SBGJ203
The SBGJ203 is a no-nonsense watch for the present day, packing both bark and bite with a clear-cut design and fantastic calibre movement. A 40-millimetre stainless case and dual-curved sapphire crystal house a dial that speaks with the perfect mix of sophistication and toughness. The beautiful black backdrop on the dial allows the striking silver numerals and hands to leap forth, and the addition of a red GMT hand adds elegance to functionality. The SBGJ203’s design is a refreshing take on the “Grand Seiko Style”, first established in 1967 with the famed Grand Seiko 44GS.
Caliber 9S86, a movement with an oscillation rate of ten beats per second, brings incredible accuracy (-5 to +3 seconds a day) to the SBGJ203, and is tactfully rounded with a 55 hour power reserve. Straight-forward and forceful in both movement and design, the Grand Seiko SBGJ203 is a wristwatch that means business.
