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Best Crisis Ever (For Watches)
And The First Quartz Watch
Ian Roth
November 19, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 12 minutes
In partnership with
Hey Watch Nerds! We’re looking at the infamous Quartz Crisis and the watch that may have started it all.
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Seiko - Astron
This week, we’re spotlighting the Seiko Astron SSJ013—a watch that combines cutting-edge tech with sleek design, giving you a lot of bang for your buck. Featuring a sharp black dial and a GPS solar-powered movement, this watch automatically adjusts to your time zone, making it the ultimate companion for jet-setters and adventure lovers alike. And did we mention it never needs a battery? That’s right—just light, time, and style. It’s Seiko’s way of delivering practicality with a serious dose of modern luxury, without requiring you to take out a second mortgage. What’s not to love?
Watch Specs
📏= 41 mm 🌊= 100 m
💰️= $2,000
⌚️ From Crisis To This
The Watch That Adjusts For You
Let’s face it—keeping up with life’s pace isn’t easy, and neither is finding a watch that can handle everything you throw at it. Enter the Seiko Astron 2023 Sport Design, a watch that’s not just about looking good, but keeping you on time, anywhere in the world. Thanks to its GPS solar-powered movement, this beauty automatically adjusts to your time zone, so whether you’re hopping between cities or continents, your watch is always one step ahead. No batteries to worry about—just a little sunlight, and you’re fully charged.
Now let’s talk about the real star of the show: that titanium case. Lightweight yet durable, this titanium build means you’re getting the strength of a tank without the wrist fatigue. It’s also super resistant to scratches and corrosion, which makes it perfect for both your daily grind and your weekend adventures. Plus, the dial colors paired with the titanium finish gives this watch a look that’s both modern and understated—whether you’re in the office or on the move, the Astron Sport Design fits right in.
More Specs
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And that’s not all. The sapphire crystal is scratch-resistant, keeping your watch looking pristine no matter what life throws at it. Add in 100 meters of water resistance, and you've got yourself a watch that handles splashes and spontaneous dips without breaking a sweat.
In short, the Seiko Astron 2023 Sport Design combines high-tech GPS functionality, solar power, and rugged titanium durability into one sleek package. It’s a true powerhouse on your wrist that keeps you on time, stylish, and worry-free—all without draining your wallet. What more could you ask for?
(click here to learn some nerd stuff about the movement)
🏠️ Activities
Beach/Swimming 🏖️
No. While the water resistance can handle it, I’d keep this one away from the beach and pool.
Outdoor Adventuring 🌲
Yes. On the bracelet or even on a NATA strap, wear this on your adventures.
Dressing Up 🤵
Yes. This looks super sharp and classy and is sure to stir up conversations at a cocktail party.
📖 Crisis and Quartz
The Quartz Crisis was a period during the 1970s and 1980s when quartz-powered watches, introduced by Seiko in 1969, drastically disrupted the traditional Swiss watch industry. Quartz technology offered more accurate timekeeping at a fraction of the cost of mechanical watches, causing a significant decline in demand for Swiss-made mechanical watches. Swiss brands struggled as cheaper, mass-produced quartz watches from Japan dominated the market. |  |
Seiko Astron: The Pioneer
The Seiko Astron, introduced in 1969, was the world’s first quartz wristwatch. Its debut marked the beginning of the quartz revolution, offering unparalleled accuracy and reliability. The Astron’s introduction was a seismic event in the watch industry, demonstrating that quartz technology could outperform mechanical movements in terms of precision.
Why Did It Matter?
The Seiko Astron changed the game. Its accuracy—within five seconds per month—was unheard of at the time. It also had a significant impact on affordability, making precise timekeeping accessible to the masses. The Astron proved that innovation wasn’t just about tradition but also about embracing new technologies.
⌚️ Who is The (new) Astron For?
🥶 Chill Alert. This section is for people with a sense of humor.
Reader discretion is advised. Take a chill pill and read on. If you dare…
Mark “The Jet Setter” Mark is a 38-year-old international business consultant who spends more time in airports than at home. His work takes him across time zones, and he needs a watch that can keep up with his fast-paced lifestyle. For Mark, the Seiko Astron Sport Design is the perfect blend of practicality and style. The GPS solar-powered movement allows him to adjust to any time zone automatically, ensuring he’s always on schedule, whether he’s closing deals in Tokyo or presenting in London. Mark also values the lightweight durability of the titanium case, which gives him a sense of reliability without sacrificing comfort. He’s always on the go, but his watch never needs downtime. | Ethan “The Adventurer” Ethan is a 32-year-old outdoor enthusiast and tech-savvy traveler who thrives on exploring new terrains and pushing his limits. Whether he’s hiking through the Alps or surfing in Bali, Ethan needs a watch that can handle it all. The Seiko Astron Sport Design, with its solar-powered GPS technology and tough titanium case, suits his need for durability and precision. Ethan loves how he never has to worry about battery life or adjusting his watch—he just needs sunlight, and the Astron takes care of the rest. For him, the rugged design and high-tech features make it the ultimate companion on his adventures. |
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⌚️ Similar Watches
Maybe today’s watch isn’t for you. That’s okay! Take a look at three GMT watches.
Seiko 5 Sports Field GMT click to buy $325 | Mido Ocean Star GMT click to buy $1,310 | Longines Spirit Zulu Time click to buy $3,150 |
👋 Outta Time
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