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Hands-On: Seiko Astron GPS Solar SSJ027 And SSH157 Watches

by Abdul Rehman MrBarry 11 Mar 2025

The night sky has inspired humanity since the dawn of civilization. From ancient navigators using stars to chart their course to modern astronomers unraveling the universe's mysteries, our celestial ceiling has been both a guide and muse. Seiko's latest limited-edition Seiko Astron GPS solar watches capture this timeless fascination, translating the wonder of a star-filled sky into horological masterpieces that blend cutting-edge technology with breathtaking aesthetics.

When the first Astron GPS Solar was introduced in 2012, it revolutionized the watch industry as the world's first GPS solar watch. Today's models have evolved dramatically, becoming more refined, more capable, and more visually striking. The SSJ027 and SSH157 represent the pinnacle of this evolution – two celestial-inspired timepieces that showcase Seiko's mastery of both technical innovation and artistic design.

Seiko Watches

These limited editions aren't merely watches. They're functional art pieces that carry forward the legacy of the historic Astron name, a designation Seiko reserves for its most groundbreaking timepieces. What makes these stellar-inspired timepieces so special? How do they perform in daily wear? Let’s find out!

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Celestial Aesthetics and Design Language

The most immediately striking feature of both the SSJ027 and SSH157 is their captivating dials. Seiko watches in Canada have created a mesmerizing interpretation of the night sky that changes dramatically depending on how light hits the surface.

Key design elements include:

  • Light blue dials with textured starry patterns that shift appearance with lighting changes

  • Titanium cases and bracelets with super-hard coating for scratch resistance

  • Angular case designs with mixed brushed and polished surfaces for dynamic light play

  • Distinctive subdial layouts that complement the celestial themes

The SSJ027 features a more compact 41.2mm case with a cleaner dial design, while the SSH157 offers a larger 43.3mm case with chronograph functionality and greater visual depth to its star pattern.

Both watches transition effortlessly between casual and formal settings. The blue stellar dials are distinctive without being flashy, making them versatile companions for business meetings and weekend adventures alike.

Advanced Technology and GPS Performance

These watches pack impressive specifications that place them among Seiko's most advanced timepieces:

The SSH157 houses the Caliber 5X83 from the Seiko Astron GPS solar 5x53 family, offering:

  • GPS satellite synchronization for precise timekeeping

  • 1/20th-second chronograph functionality

  • Dual-time display with world time covering 38 cities

  • Perpetual calendar accurate until February 2100

  • 6-month power reserve (2 years in power save mode)

The SSJ027 utilizes the streamlined Caliber 3X62, providing:

  • Core GPS signal reception capability

  • Power reserve indicator

  • Perpetual calendar until February 2100

  • Cleaner dial layout with fewer complications

Both models feature the valuable Seiko Astron GPS solar daylight savings automatic adjustment capability, particularly useful for frequent travelers. The Seiko Astron GPS solar world time functionality activates quickly, with GPS connections typically established within 6-12 seconds outdoors – significantly faster than earlier models.

Wearability and Ergonomics

The titanium construction provides several practical benefits:

  • 30% lighter than comparable stainless steel watches

  • Comfortable all-day wear despite substantial dimensions

  • Superior corrosion resistance for longevity

  • Hypoallergenic properties for sensitive skin

Additional wearing experience highlights:

  • Integrated bracelet design enhancing both aesthetics and comfort

  • Three-fold clasp with secure push-button release

  • Precise button operation with ideal resistance

  • Excellent power reserve management during real-world testing

Our specialized watch sizing service at Bijoux Eclore would be perfect for Seiko Astron GPS solar masterpieces, ensuring the titanium bracelet is precisely fitted to your wrist for maximum comfort. Our expertise with high-end titanium watches guarantees professional adjustment without damaging the super-hard coating.

Travel Companion Performance

The true test of any GPS watch comes during actual travel, where these Astron models truly excel. During testing across multiple time zones, both watches demonstrated exceptional reliability in maintaining accurate time with minimal intervention.

Key travel advantages include:

  • Automatic time zone detection that activates upon exiting an airplane

  • Instant adjustment to local time without requiring smartphone connectivity

  • Preservation of home time through the dual-time function (SSH157)

  • Elimination of jet lag-induced time-setting errors

Business travelers will appreciate how these watches seamlessly transition between time zones without drawing attention, and no fumbling with smartphone settings during important meetings or while navigating unfamiliar airports. The watches' ability to automatically adjust for Seiko Astron GPS solar daylight savings changes also eliminates a common travel frustration.

The SSH157's chronograph functionality proves particularly useful for timing connections or logging activity durations while traveling, while the more streamlined SSJ027 offers essential time management without additional complications that might go unused.

Astron Family Lineage

How do these models compare to other Astrons?

  • The Seiko Astron GPS Solar Kojima Productions Limited Edition featured unique aesthetics but lacked the refined finishing and advanced movements of these newer models.

  • The standard Seiko Astron GPS solar SSJ013 offers similar functionality to the SSJ027 but with a more conventional dial at a lower price point.

  • Compared to the original Seiko Astron 7x52 GPS solar models, these watches show significant evolution in connectivity speed, power management, and design refinement.

  • While the Seiko Astron 7x52 GPS solar price was similar to today's models (adjusted for inflation), the technology has advanced substantially.

  • The Seiko Astron GPS solar 7x52 manual is still available online, but newer models offer more intuitive operation.

Market Position and Collectibility

Both watches are limited to 1,500 pieces worldwide:

  • SSJ027: 2,200 USD

  • SSH157: 2,500 USD

This pricing positions them competitively against Swiss GPS watches that typically command much higher prices. For collectors, the limited production suggests potential appreciation, particularly given the strong secondary market for previous limited-edition Astrons with distinctive dials.

Final Assessment

The Seiko Astron GPS solar SSJ027 and SSH157 represent impressive achievements in both technical watchmaking and aesthetic design. They balance innovation with wearability, offering genuine utility for travelers while providing visual distinction for collectors.

Key takeaways:

  • The SSJ027 offers a more compact option with a cleaner dial layout

  • The SSH157 provides additional chronograph and dual-time functionality

  • Both deliver precise GPS synchronization with exceptional comfort

  • The celestial designs create a meaningful connection to their satellite functionality

At Bijoux Eclore, we understand that a fine watch is an expression of your personal style and appreciation for craftsmanship. Our curated collection features only the most distinctive watches that combine technical excellence with artistic design. Visit our website to witness these 100% genuine celestial Seiko masterpieces, alongside our collection of other watches that embody the perfect balance of innovation and timeless elegance.

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FAQs

Is the Seiko Astron GPS solar 5x53 movement more accurate than standard automatic watches?

Absolutely. While premium automatic watches typically achieve accuracy within +/-2 seconds per day, the Seiko Astron GPS solar technology delivers precision within one second per 100,000 years when synchronized. Even between satellite connections, its accuracy of ±15 seconds per month far surpasses mechanical alternatives.

How does the Seiko Astron GPS solar world time function work in areas with poor satellite reception?

In challenging reception environments (indoor spaces, urban canyons), you can manually set the time zone using the crown. Once you're in an open area, the watch will automatically attempt synchronization to correct any slight deviations. The most recent GPS data remains stored even without new connections. 

How does the SSJ027 compare to the Seiko Astron GPS solar SSJ013 in daily wear?

The SSJ027 offers the same core functionality as the Seiko Astron GPS solar SSJ013 but with a distinctive celestial dial pattern and limited edition status. The wearing experience is nearly identical in terms of weight and dimensions, but the SSJ027's unique aesthetics make it more visually striking.

What makes the titanium used in the SSJ027 and SSH157 Astrons different from standard titanium watches?

The SSJ027 and SSH157 Astron models feature Seiko's proprietary super-hard titanium with a specialized coating that achieves 5 times the scratch resistance of standard titanium. This advanced material preserves the lightweight properties and hypoallergenic benefits of traditional titanium while addressing its primary weakness – susceptibility to surface marks.

 

Read More About Seiko Watches:  Are Seiko Watches Unisex?

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