The thought of a travelling lifestyle is driven by an inherent desire to explore that exists in all of us, albeit to varying degrees. To cater to these aspirational travellers Seiko have developed their own, patented, low-energy-consumption GPS receiver, which allows a watch that can receive GPS signals and identify time zone, time and date data using the global network of GPS satellites. This watch, called the Seiko Astron (GPS Solar), automatically recognises all the 39 time zones on earth and receives all the power it needs from light absorbed through the dial.
HOW THE SEIKO ASTRON WORKS
Once a day, Seiko Astron receives the time signal automatically and, on demand, connects to four or more of the GPS satellites that orbit the earth, thus pinpointing its position and identifying the time zone and the exact time. The hands adjust automatically to the correct local time with Atomic Clock precision. The Seiko Astron is solar powered, so never needs a battery change, and it also has a perpetual calendar, so the date will always be as accurate as the time.
To commemorate the launch, a unique piece (pictured above) has been created and is offered in a limited edition of 2,500, with a high-intensity titanium case and ceramic bezel. The recessed sides of the case ensure that it is as light as it is robust. The case’s high-intensity titanium is as strong as steel but has only 60% of its weight. It is accompanied by an additional extra-strength silicon strap – four times stronger than any previous strap of this material.
There are three other models in high-intensity titanium and two in stainless steel. All have the same functions and high specifications, including a dual time sub-dial, in-flight mode indicator and sapphire crystal with Super-Clear Coating1.
In addition to the traditional date and dual time displays, the status of the GPS signal is indicated by the second hand and indicator at 10 o’clock position when the appropriate button is pressed. At a glance, you see whether a GPS signal has been received, and from how many satellites and whether Daylight Saving Time is activated.
Seiko Astron may be intelligent, but the the real gift is the freedom of thought to focus on those aspects of life that really demand your attention and – quite literally – let time take care of itself. Every time you step off a plane, just press a button and the time zone adjustment is automatic, taking just six seconds for the time to self-correct regardless of whether you are stationary or on the move.
The Seiko Astron GPS Solar collection prices ranges from £1750 and £3,000, for more information visit www.seiko-astron.com.
- Sapphire crystal viewer is covered in Super-Clear Coating; Seiko’s proprietary newly-developed anti-reflective coating, applied on both the front and back of the glass preventing 99% of light reflection and allowing the dial to be easily legible, even in bright light. ↩