In Time: World Time

Seiko’s analog with GPS.

BY JEFF PRINE

Published in the May 2012 issue

There’s a certain braggadocio that goes on during a watch fair and BaselWorld 2012 was no different. Swiss watchmakers touted their latest complications, some of which claimed two or three patented mechanisms. But that was nothing compared to Seiko’s Astron, which boasts 100 patents, including one for being the first solar-powered quartz watch with a miniature GPS receiver that responds to signals from four or more satellites.

Thanks to the micro-circuitry beneath the dial, a wearer can be anywhere on Earth and the hands adjust automatically to the exact atomic time in his time zone. (While he’s in the air, there’s an in-flight mode indicator). There’s even an adjustment to account for daylight saving time, and a perpetual calendar. Even with all these functions, the dial remains legible, covered by a sapphire crystal with a new anti-reflective coating, Super-Clear, which prevents light reflection, even on a sunny day. Astrons come in two stainless steel styles and in two titanium models which afford a big look, yet weigh in at only 4.75 ounces.

Fossil Stella Chronograph
“Midsize watches are hot in all brands, and Fossil fills this area at an economical price.”
MSRP: $135 (972) 234-2525 | www.fossil.com