Selection Digital Quartz Yellow Ref. SBJG017

Seiko returns with an exciting revival: the new Rotocall, a reissue of the early 1980s Seiko A829, a watch that earned a cult following among astronauts thanks to its glove-friendly rotating bezel that replaced tiny pushers. This ingenious design quickly led to the nickname "Rotocall" and even "Seiko Astronaut," a name well deserved given its history in space. Though never an official NASA-issued watch, the A829 found its way onto the wrists of astronauts by choice, including Dutch astronaut Wubbo Ockels, NASA's first mother in space Anna Fisher, Australia's first astronaut Paul Desmond Scully-Power, and Ulf Merbold, the first West German on a NASA mission. Their preference highlighted the model's practicality and reliability, qualities that continue in this modern reinterpretation of a true tool watch.

Joining the revival are three new models that stay remarkably faithful to the originals. And here, we begin with the standout of the trio: the Seiko Selection Digital Quartz Yellow Ref. SBJG017. 

Seiko Selection Digital Quartz Yellow Ref. SBJG017

The reissue stays remarkably faithful to the original, arriving in a very wearable 37mm stainless steel case with a slim 10.6mm thickness. With a compact lug-to-lug span of about 43.5mm, the new digital alarm chronographs are designed to be lightweight, comfortable, and effortlessly wearable. The flat, sturdy lugs further enhance this experience, featuring brushed top surfaces paired with polished sides for a clean, refined finish.

Staying true to its roots, the new Rotocall features the iconic octagonal knurled bezel, a signature of Seiko's digital watch heritage, with each side dedicated to a specific function. The SBJG017 comes with a classic black bezel, accented by two sections in yellow, giving the watch a balanced yet vibrant look. Simply rotate the bezel until the desired mode aligns at the top to access functions such as time, time setting, timer, counter, stopwatch, dual time, daily alarm and single alarm, with the side buttons smoothly controlling each feature. Despite its unmistakable eighties character, the layout remains highly legible and intuitive, with clearly marked labels that make operation effortless. 

Iconic octagonal knurled bezel

Protected by a Hardlex crystal, the digital display pairs seamlessly with the rotating bezel, clearly presenting each function as you cycle through them. Seiko has also enhanced the re-edition with practical additions such as an AM/PM indicator and a battery level gauge, offering even more information at a glance. These upgrades complement the straightforward LED display, making the watch even more functional without straying from its iconic, no-nonsense character.

Behind it is Seiko's A824 digital quartz module, delivering reliable performance with an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month. The watch is powered by a battery with an estimated three year lifespan, ensuring long lasting practicality. Everything is securely housed beneath a screw in caseback and reinforced with 100 meters of water resistance, providing solid protection for everyday wear. 

Seiko's A824 digital quartz module

A 20mm five-row stainless steel bracelet completes the watch, featuring a refined mix of brushed and polished surfaces and secured with a well executed signed folding clasp for both comfort and confidence on the wrist.

In bringing back the Rotocall, Seiko has not just revived a watch but a piece of spacefaring history. Known for producing reasonably priced, high-quality, purpose-driven timepieces, Seiko returns to the digital quartz arena with a worthy entrant that carries the original's remarkable story. What once accompanied astronauts beyond Earth now returns with updated functionality and unmistakable retro spirit. The result is a digital watch that feels both familiar and elevated, a compact, futuristic tool brimming with personality. Whether you are drawn to its heritage or its practicality, the new Rotocall proves that true innovation leaves a legacy worth rediscovering.

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