Gray Ceramic Debuts On Two New Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronographs
For the first time in the Astron collection, Seiko introduces gray ceramic. The shiny non-alloy appears on the bezel, crown cap, and bracelet center links of two new Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph watches. While these models share the ceramic parts, they have differently colored titanium components. The HAB007 is the full-gray version, while the HAB008 is the bordering-on-black dark gray iteration. Surprisingly, these two latest members of the satellite-connecting, light-powered Astron family don’t house the in-house caliber 5X63 introduced this year. Instead, they use the 5X83, a movement that debuted in 2024.
You can hardly call a movement that debuted in 2024 “old.” Still, since Seiko introduced one with similar functions but a different layout earlier this year, you might think the 2026 caliber would have replaced the one from two years ago. Well, that’s clearly not the case. The two Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph models with gray ceramic details, the HAB007 and the darker HAB008, feature the caliber 5X83, not the latest caliber 5X63. The big visual difference between the two movements is the layout. The caliber 5X83 dictates a rather unconventional 6-9-12 sub-dial arrangement, while the caliber 5X63 has a more harmonious 3-6-9 layout that feels cleaner and easier to read, as you can see in the Crystal Green (HAB005) and Crystal Pink (HAB006). It’s curious and interesting, right?
HAB007
Introducing two new versions of the Seiko Astron GPS Solar Dual Time Chronograph in titanium and gray ceramic
The biggest functional difference between the two calibers is that the latest 5X63 measures elapsed time up to 24 hours in 1/20th-of-a-second increments, while the 5X83 measures elapsed time only up to 12 hours.
Both calibers automatically connect to GPS satellites up to twice a day for atomic precision (±15 seconds per month when not connected), cover 38 time zones with an easy time-transfer feature, and include a perpetual calendar accurate until 2100.
As I said before, a movement introduced in 2024 can hardly be called “old” or “obsolete” just two years later. Having the 5X83 inside the new Astrons has another perk: the slightly odder dial layout gives the watches a strong, distinct character. And especially in the new colorways, it works. The two newcomers’ vibe reminds me of the earliest Astrons — technical, unconventional, and bold.
The all-gray HAB007
The HAB007 (€3,000) is the grayer of the two new references. Gray ceramic makes its first appearance in the Astron lineup, and you can find it on the bezel, the center links of the bracelet, and the crown cap. The gray ceramic has a lustrous finish that contrasts with the titanium case and outer bracelet links, giving the watch a slightly more technical character without making it overly flashy.
Looking more closely at the bezel edge, you’ll find a series of grooves positioned in line with the hour markers. Though a small detail, it gives the otherwise sporty design a more considered appearance.
The HAB008 has a darker character
The HAB008 (€3,200) follows the same material and design formula but in a darker way. It also features the brand’s newly developed gray ceramic for the bezel, center bracelet links, and crown cap, paired with a titanium case and bracelet with an almost-black super-hard coating.
Like the HAB007, the HAB008 features a vertically striped dial that adds visual depth, but in the darker version, blue accents break the monochromatic look. In both versions, the combination of titanium and gray ceramic does most of the visual work. The result is contemporary and sporty, but the restrained color schemes and small finishing details keep these watches from becoming too busy.
Wearing the new Astrons
Being an Astron fan from the very first hour and used to wearing a first-generation 47mm creation, I think a 43.24mm Astron is a perfect fit. Well, on my 18cm wrist, these two new watches sit really well. That’s also thanks to their lightweight titanium construction and ceramic parts that don’t add much extra weight.
Both the HAB007 and the darker HAB008 are super easy to wear. However, I prefer the very gray version over the darker one. The HAB008, with its blue details, looks a bit more like an old-school Astron, if you know what I mean, so if you’re into that, this version could be the one for you.
If you had to choose between a Seiko Astron, would you consider the caliber inside, or would it all be about looks? Please tell me in the comments section below.
