Seiko's 145th Anniversary: Alpinist, Astron, and Rotocall in Edo Purple

Seiko's 145th Anniversary: A Purple Tribute

In 1881, Kintaro Hattori opened a small shop in Tokyo that would grow into Seiko, the brand that became the world's largest watch manufacturer by the 1980s. To honor this milestone, Seiko has released six limited-edition timepieces in a regal 'Edo purple' hue, a color historically associated with Japanese nobility. Among them, three stand out: the Prospex Alpinist HBC006, the Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph HAB011, and the Rotocall HFL001. Each represents a different facet of Seiko's legacy—from mountaineering tools to cutting-edge quartz technology and space-faring chronographs.

Seiko Prospex Alpinist HBC006: A Modern Classic in Purple

The Alpinist line, originally launched in 1959, gained its iconic green-and-gilt look in 1995, designed by Shigeo Sakai. That colorway became a bestseller, proving that green watches could have mass appeal. For 2026, Seiko reimagines the Alpinist with a striking purple dial and bezel, limited to 7,000 pieces. Priced at US0, it offers exceptional value: a Diashield-coated steel case, sapphire crystal with a magnified date, 200m water resistance, and a 72-hour power reserve from the cal. 6R55. The movement uses a SPRON 510 mainspring and a skeletonized MEMS escapement, showcasing Seiko's advanced manufacturing. The 39.5mm case is versatile, and the purple dial is sure to turn heads, making it a collectible for enthusiasts.

Buying Tip

If you're considering the Alpinist HBC006, note that it's a limited edition, so act quickly. Its 200m water resistance and sapphire crystal make it a robust daily wearer, though the leather strap may need breaking in. The purple dial is unique, but if you prefer a more subdued look, the classic green version is still available.

Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph HAB011: High-Tech Luxury

The Astron name dates back to 1969, when Seiko introduced the world's first quartz watch, the Quartz Astron. In 2012, Seiko revived the name for a GPS-solar collection. The HAB011, limited to 2,000 pieces at US,900, is a pinnacle of quartz technology. Its 43.4mm grade-five titanium case is coated with Diashield for scratch resistance, and the black ceramic bezel adds durability. The five-link bracelet combines titanium and ceramic, with a tool-less micro-adjust clasp. The dial features diamond-cut indices, a hallmark of high-end Seiko finishing. Powered by the cal. 5X83, it syncs via GPS, automatically adjusting for time zones and daylight saving. The perpetual calendar, second time zone, and 1/20th-second chronograph are controlled through a single sub-dial at 6 o'clock. The 'time transfer' function lets you swap primary and secondary time zones instantly. With a 13.4mm thickness, it's surprisingly slim for such a feature-rich watch.

Authenticity Note

Given the Astron's complexity, ensure you purchase from an authorized dealer to guarantee authenticity and warranty. The GPS functionality relies on a clear sky, but it's a reliable system used by many high-end quartz watches.

Seiko Rotocall HFL001: A Space-Era Reissue

The Rotocall, originally flight-qualified by NASA in 1983, earned its nickname as the 'Shuttle Watch' after making nearly 200 trips to space during the Shuttle program. Seiko revived it in 2025, and for 2026, it appears in a purple-dialed limited edition of 4,000 pieces at US5. The 37mm case is faithful to the original, using a Hardlex crystal and stamped bracelet parts to keep costs down. The cal. A824 inside offers a perpetual calendar, second time zone, chronograph with lap timer, countdown timer, up/down counter, and alarm—all controlled via the rotating bezel. The bezel cycles through functions, with the active one at 12 o'clock, and buttons at 4 and 8 o'clock operate them. At 10.6mm thick, it's a slim, quirky piece with genuine space heritage.

Buying Tip

The Rotocall's Hardlex crystal is more scratch-prone than sapphire, but it's part of the authentic vintage experience. If you're a space enthusiast or collector of quirky quartz, this is a great conversation starter. Its price makes it an accessible entry into Seiko's limited editions.