Thanks for the comprehensive and well presented review. This Astron watch fits the bill for me, in every way, including size, style and legibility. The bracelet is excellent, and I managed to get a very good fit despite the lack of micro adjustment holes. The dial is beautiful, as are the hands, and I love the titanium look and feel. It's a light watch, but has much to offer.
I was considering purchasing this watch for a couple of months. After I watched your video, I finally decided to buy it! Thanks for making this informative video!
Thank you for that wonderful and comprehensive review. I appreciate your excellent presentation as well. As for the watch, and as an owner of one, I agree about how good it looks and feels, as well as its high quality and design. For me, the size is perfect, and the bracelet is as comfortable as you described, which is not always the case for Seiko. I love the look of the titanium, as well as it being so light on the wrist. The lack of lume is not a problem for me. Given all the options of the Astron line, this one was the best choice for me, since I generally prefer watches without too many complications.
Been wearing this model for a few months straight. Took it off at the beginning of the week to wear another. Immediately regretted it because it does not slip under the cuff easily like the Astron does. Been contemplating buying a SBXY063 to swap out the moment and dial into this case. The lume is the main reason I’m contemplating the swap. It’s the one thing I miss w/ the 031. Other than that’s it’s been a perfect daily. Half links and micro adjust would be a welcome addition but I’ve been able to get a good fit.
Ordered the black version SBXY033. Can't wait to get it. I also noticed there are some new watches from the Seiko Selection series that match the features of these new Astrons -- like the SBTM341 for about $200 less.
Got the Astron with the white dial. Truly a fine looking watch. I initially wanted an entry level GS Quartz SBGX263 but the Astron kills it in specs (titanium, solar and radio controlled) and affordability but GS might be slightly better built. In the end Astron won it for me.
Wow, this one was a revelation, for sure. Hadn't ever heard of it and had mostly written off the Astron line due to sizing, design cues, etc. Color me impressed. Probably picking up this exact reference, ha. Ticks off so many boxes. Wish it were a hair smaller; a 37-38mm would be dope, but I think with the L2L, it'd still be a solid enough fit for me. Thanks for the vid!
I cannot understand why they do not sell these watches in the UK. I also cannot understand why they do not offer a wide variety of dials and case sizes to increase the number of potential customers. If they offered this with a 3,6,9 dial and a 35 to 37mm case then I would be beating a path to their door. At least the date background is not the usual white colour/ It would be interesting to see if this watch works in the north of Scotland. I had an atomic watch which would update but only if left on the outside of a south facing window...
I think for the gps astron, the size might be a limitation because of the size of the movement and gps module inside. Agree it would be nice to see more smaller sized astron watches
Thanks so much for coming across! Hope you like the videos I make to share interesting pieces from my collection and other weird and wonderful ones I encounter
Really nice piece. Seiko nails it with dials, for sure👌🏻. And this one is overall great from all aspects. I own an Astron, 2015 Novak Djokovic limited edition. My most valuable watch in my collection- not because it is worth a few thousands- it has the deepest emotional connection and personal story. Well, it’s also gorgeous and finished to a GS level..
I have never had any issue with shipping from Japan but that's just my experience. In terms of the warranty, with quartz watches I'm as concerned. There's probably less than can go wrong with quartz compared to mechanical. Depending on where you buy from you might still have a local Japanese warranty you can send it back under. Buying from an authorized dealer in Japan will sometimes also include a shorter international warranty as well. For example a Japanese 3 year warranty and 1 year international
Just love NO complications except for the date. A colour matched date wheel would have knocked it out of the park. Slightly bigger for my 7.25 inch wrist would be better still.
There are so few astrons without any other complications but yeah, this one is great. I wouldn't worry too much about the size. I know someone with an 8+ inch wrist and it looks right at home there as well
I'd say astron goes higher in terms of quality and finish (and price) but some of the models in the selection line use the same movement as the one in this (7b72) so I think those would be pretty similar in terms of quality
@@addicted_to_watches Yeah I am looking at the black dial version of Selection (SBTM341) and Astron (SXY033) lines but leaning towards Astron because the dial is much more interesting
I have an old 47mm Astron. It stopped and Seiko charged me $407 USD to get it running (and they dressed it up a bit). The watch has no scratches or wear since 2014, and it looks brand new with a deeper, better crystal than any other watch I have ever seen. Mine is a dual time, and it is the ultimate travel watch. It is huge, but it fits my 7.5” wrist. I like the Brightz watches, but my model is better finished. It also had an MSRP around $2500 USD. The ceramic and Diashield work. I think that is a big deal. The watch looks new.
Accuracy for the movement is stated at +-15 seconds per month. I haven't actually measured the accuracy myself but haven't noticed any significant variation
@@addicted_to_watches if you had to guess, would you say.. less than 10sec of drift within those 8 months? Or more? Can't find any real world accuracy tests on this movement.. (Trying to decide whether it's worth it for me to buy a high accuracy quartz)
I haven't really been keeping track to be honest. If you're in a country that receives the signal you won't have to worry at all. There's also an app that can replicate the signal to sync the time
I got this watch, but somehow I can't manage to get it to sync with the GPS/Radio signal. Im in the Netherlands which is an area where it should work according to the seiko map. Any ideas what could be? I press the tiny button for 3 seconds, it shows 'L' and then fails, each time. I tried in different locations including parks with no buildings around.
I'm not too sure as I've never actually used the function here in Australia. Have you tried just leaving it next to a window for a day or two? I believe it will also periodically try and sync by itself during the night. The manual also says that you should point the 9 o'clock marker out the window because that's where the antenna is to receive the signal. It also says not to move the watch at all when receiving the signal. Other than that I'm not really sure how to help, sorry
@@tangolima4148 I never managed to make it sync. I was planning to take it to the seiko boutique to see if they can help, but I honestly doubt it since this model doesnt exist here in EU.
@@martinalvarez4010 You probably did, but asking anyway: did you make sure, the timezone is set to +1 or +2? This is required to enable the Frankfurt radio reception. Setting Netherlands time manually on a -6 or +9 (JPN) setting will not make the reception work in Europe.
I don't understand why these quartz watches can't be programmed to have a smooth seconds hand sweep. A fully charged Astron watch can run for 9 months. So what if it uses twice or 3 times as much energy with a smooth sweep? Normal exposure to sunlight will just keep it going perpetually.
Seiko do have some sweeping quartz movements, such as the VH31. I think besides the battery it may also wear out other parts of the movement sooner, reducing the overall longevity of the movement
Radio quartz watches are intended to sync with the atomic clock (via air waves or via the Clock Wave app), and provide an accuracy no more than 50 milliseconds. The seconds hand tick helps indicate if the watch is synced to this accuracy or not. If they instead use a seconds hand sweep, it will obscure the actual accuracy and make them no longer useful for buyers in specialized professions like finance, aerospace, and military.
Tissot definitely has the better brand reputation at that price point but I'd argue you get more in terms of materials, finishing and functions from the Seiko. It just depends what you're after
That’s a proper quartz watch that hits all the markers. I am impressed.
A lot of seiko's higher end stuff is quite good when it comes to that. I've seen that Casio do it very well too
@@addicted_to_watches im thinking of getting this watch… for the price… i mean you can’t really do better elsewhere
Thanks for the comprehensive and well presented review. This Astron watch fits the bill for me, in every way, including size, style and legibility. The bracelet is excellent, and I managed to get a very good fit despite the lack of micro adjustment holes. The dial is beautiful, as are the hands, and I love the titanium look and feel. It's a light watch, but has much to offer.
Glad you enjoyed the video. It's a great watch, wear it well!
Absolutely beautiful! Looks better than any Rolex I've ever seen, and a phenomenally better value.
It’s a great looking watch. I like how the second hand hits the tick marks!
Yep, when Seiko put some effort into their quartz models they can get it spot on
I was considering purchasing this watch for a couple of months. After I watched your video, I finally decided to buy it! Thanks for making this informative video!
Glad the video helped you out!
Thank you for that wonderful and comprehensive review. I appreciate your excellent presentation as well. As for the watch, and as an owner of one, I agree about how good it looks and feels, as well as its high quality and design. For me, the size is perfect, and the bracelet is as comfortable as you described, which is not always the case for Seiko. I love the look of the titanium, as well as it being so light on the wrist. The lack of lume is not a problem for me. Given all the options of the Astron line, this one was the best choice for me, since I generally prefer watches without too many complications.
Thanks for the thorough comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Been wearing this model for a few months straight. Took it off at the beginning of the week to wear another. Immediately regretted it because it does not slip under the cuff easily like the Astron does.
Been contemplating buying a SBXY063 to swap out the moment and dial into this case. The lume is the main reason I’m contemplating the swap. It’s the one thing I miss w/ the 031. Other than that’s it’s been a perfect daily. Half links and micro adjust would be a welcome addition but I’ve been able to get a good fit.
Ordered the black version SBXY033. Can't wait to get it. I also noticed there are some new watches from the Seiko Selection series that match the features of these new Astrons -- like the SBTM341 for about $200 less.
Nice! Yeah, Seiko have a few other non-astrons with this movement floating around the jdm market
Got the Astron with the white dial. Truly a fine looking watch. I initially wanted an entry level GS Quartz SBGX263 but the Astron kills it in specs (titanium, solar and radio controlled) and affordability but GS might be slightly better built. In the end Astron won it for me.
I think id probably pick the white dial if I was buying one now too. It's some pretty stiff competition for a chronometer too
Great overview of a great watch. You should know that at least one Australian jeweller is selling this watch.
Oh really? Who is that?
Joyce Jewellery in Haymarket, Sydney@@addicted_to_watches
Wow, this one was a revelation, for sure. Hadn't ever heard of it and had mostly written off the Astron line due to sizing, design cues, etc. Color me impressed. Probably picking up this exact reference, ha. Ticks off so many boxes. Wish it were a hair smaller; a 37-38mm would be dope, but I think with the L2L, it'd still be a solid enough fit for me. Thanks for the vid!
Glad you enjoyed the video. It's completely different to everything else in the astron line but once again the best stuff is kept for the JDM market 😅
Wow, great find! I like everything about it
Love my Astron. My most worn watch, no need to worry about the time being accurate. 👌🏽
It really is a no nonsense, no fuss watch
I cannot understand why they do not sell these watches in the UK. I also cannot understand why they do not offer a wide variety of dials and case sizes to increase the number of potential customers. If they offered this with a 3,6,9 dial and a 35 to 37mm case then I would be beating a path to their door.
At least the date background is not the usual white colour/
It would be interesting to see if this watch works in the north of Scotland. I had an atomic watch which would update but only if left on the outside of a south facing window...
I think for the gps astron, the size might be a limitation because of the size of the movement and gps module inside. Agree it would be nice to see more smaller sized astron watches
Haven't seen this one before. I have the astron 5x in titanium. But this one looks like a great suit or everyday watch.
It is definitely very versatile with that simple and straightforward design
Lume and a crown guard would make this watch perfection!
Agree on the lume but I could go either way on the crown guards
Seiko JDM astron's are always nice
Great hidden gem from Seiko! Like the size and great price!
There's a lot to like about this model
One thing here is: you can download apps that emulates the radio tower waves…so you can sync the watch when you have no real tower coverage
Yeah, I've heard about those but never actually tried one myself. The watch is accurate enough on its own that I don't really need to worry about that
Clock Wave is the best for this
Hi Michael! Jody sent me over. Nice to meet another addict.
Thanks so much for coming across! Hope you like the videos I make to share interesting pieces from my collection and other weird and wonderful ones I encounter
Very nice! Where did you get the brown strap at 13:05 from?
It's actually just a cheap one from AliExpress 😅 but I think it looks pretty good
Really nice piece. Seiko nails it with dials, for sure👌🏻. And this one is overall great from all aspects.
I own an Astron, 2015 Novak Djokovic limited edition. My most valuable watch in my collection- not because it is worth a few thousands- it has the deepest emotional connection and personal story.
Well, it’s also gorgeous and finished to a GS level..
That's awesome. Watches with personal connections are the most special
Think I'm going to buy the black version , did you have any issues with the shipping ? Only a little worried you don't get a warranty .
I have never had any issue with shipping from Japan but that's just my experience. In terms of the warranty, with quartz watches I'm as concerned. There's probably less than can go wrong with quartz compared to mechanical. Depending on where you buy from you might still have a local Japanese warranty you can send it back under. Buying from an authorized dealer in Japan will sometimes also include a shorter international warranty as well. For example a Japanese 3 year warranty and 1 year international
@@addicted_to_watches thank you , I'm getting mine from sakura watches who seem to have pretty good reviews with customer service .
Just love NO complications except for the date. A colour matched date wheel would have knocked it out of the park. Slightly bigger for my 7.25 inch wrist would be better still.
There are so few astrons without any other complications but yeah, this one is great. I wouldn't worry too much about the size. I know someone with an 8+ inch wrist and it looks right at home there as well
Does the date get set automatically too or only the time?
The date changes too! When you're in range of the radio signal you'll never have to set the time or date
If they made this in a larger size I would definitely buy it, looks amazing ! Guess I'll stick to the SARY057 for a while longer :)
Plenty of other astron watches in larger sizes
Does the bracelet taper?
Yep, tapers from 20 to 18
How does this Astron JDM line compares with Selection JDM line?
I'd say astron goes higher in terms of quality and finish (and price) but some of the models in the selection line use the same movement as the one in this (7b72) so I think those would be pretty similar in terms of quality
@@addicted_to_watches Yeah I am looking at the black dial version of Selection (SBTM341) and Astron (SXY033) lines but leaning towards Astron because the dial is much more interesting
Thanks! Love this watch, but wish it had GPS. I know that GPS probably won't fit in a watch this size.
The smallest GPS astron I can think of is 39mm I believe, the SSJ005
Shoutout Jody
When I came across this one, I immediately thought about him
I have an old 47mm Astron. It stopped and Seiko charged me $407 USD to get it running (and they dressed it up a bit). The watch has no scratches or wear since 2014, and it looks brand new with a deeper, better crystal than any other watch I have ever seen. Mine is a dual time, and it is the ultimate travel watch.
It is huge, but it fits my 7.5” wrist. I like the Brightz watches, but my model is better finished. It also had an MSRP around $2500 USD. The ceramic and Diashield work. I think that is a big deal. The watch looks new.
I don't think I could pull off 47mm 😅 but it sounds like a great watch
white dial 👀
👀 honestly if I came across one for the right price I'd probably swap it for the blue
Sorry if you already mentioned it in the video but.. how accurate has this watch been per month?
Accuracy for the movement is stated at +-15 seconds per month. I haven't actually measured the accuracy myself but haven't noticed any significant variation
@@addicted_to_watches Thanks! How long have you been using the watch for?
Probably about 8 months at this point
@@addicted_to_watches if you had to guess, would you say.. less than 10sec of drift within those 8 months? Or more?
Can't find any real world accuracy tests on this movement.. (Trying to decide whether it's worth it for me to buy a high accuracy quartz)
I haven't really been keeping track to be honest. If you're in a country that receives the signal you won't have to worry at all. There's also an app that can replicate the signal to sync the time
I got this watch, but somehow I can't manage to get it to sync with the GPS/Radio signal. Im in the Netherlands which is an area where it should work according to the seiko map. Any ideas what could be?
I press the tiny button for 3 seconds, it shows 'L' and then fails, each time. I tried in different locations including parks with no buildings around.
I'm not too sure as I've never actually used the function here in Australia. Have you tried just leaving it next to a window for a day or two? I believe it will also periodically try and sync by itself during the night. The manual also says that you should point the 9 o'clock marker out the window because that's where the antenna is to receive the signal. It also says not to move the watch at all when receiving the signal. Other than that I'm not really sure how to help, sorry
Any luck so far?
@@tangolima4148 I never managed to make it sync. I was planning to take it to the seiko boutique to see if they can help, but I honestly doubt it since this model doesnt exist here in EU.
@@martinalvarez4010 You probably did, but asking anyway: did you make sure, the timezone is set to +1 or +2? This is required to enable the Frankfurt radio reception. Setting Netherlands time manually on a -6 or +9 (JPN) setting will not make the reception work in Europe.
@@tangolima4148 I actually not sure I did, how do i go about it? this model only has one button to push really
I don't understand why these quartz watches can't be programmed to have a smooth seconds hand sweep. A fully charged Astron watch can run for 9 months. So what if it uses twice or 3 times as much energy with a smooth sweep? Normal exposure to sunlight will just keep it going perpetually.
Seiko do have some sweeping quartz movements, such as the VH31. I think besides the battery it may also wear out other parts of the movement sooner, reducing the overall longevity of the movement
Radio quartz watches are intended to sync with the atomic clock (via air waves or via the Clock Wave app), and provide an accuracy no more than 50 milliseconds. The seconds hand tick helps indicate if the watch is synced to this accuracy or not.
If they instead use a seconds hand sweep, it will obscure the actual accuracy and make them no longer useful for buyers in specialized professions like finance, aerospace, and military.
No lume, bummer
Yes unfortunately. It's the only major flaw with the watch
Woooww ... In that price for just only a quartz, i go for tissot
Tissot definitely has the better brand reputation at that price point but I'd argue you get more in terms of materials, finishing and functions from the Seiko. It just depends what you're after
No Tissot can match this watch in this price range