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Cherry blossoms have long been associated with Japan – and for good reason. These delicate little blossoms contribute an astounding $2.7 billion into the economy with over 63 million people (a number that includes both tourists and those living in Japan) viewing them annually. There’s even a word for this annual custom – hanami, meaning to stroll along, enjoy the blossoms, and nature’s transience. Now, isn’t that beautiful?
Though the visual appeal of cherry blossoms might just be one of Japan’s strongest soft-power exports, you have to admit it’s a little overplayed. Yes, I know what I’m saying is a little controversial, but hear me out. After a while, the same old white and pink flowers on a skinny little twig just loses any impact of its natural beauty. You see it so much on towels, keychains, and stationery, one becomes blind to the fact that cherry blossoms are beautiful. It’s a sort of visual desensitization, if you ask me.
That’s why I’m quite happy to see the two new models from Seiko being released early next year as Astron GPS Solar 2025 Limited Editions, the SSH171 and SSJ029. Both references are inspired by sakura, but not in the traditional sense. Instead of focusing on spring strolls during the daytime, Seiko has produced two watches that look to the starlight as their guiding principle. In doing so, we have two tonally rich watches that aren’t so clichéd.
Like all well-designed Japanese products, the watches in this limited edition series use an economy of restraint while not sacrificing style. Both watches feature a deep purple dial that’s complemented both by a black titanium case and large white indices. The black case and bracelet give the watches a stealthy vibe; but the purple dial keeps that in check, making for a great everyday watch with the right amount of color.
The SSH171 is the chronograph version of the “Cherry Blossoms by Night” theme, packing a ton of functionality into its 42mm case. Like others in the Astron line, the SSH171 is powered by solar energy, with the added benefit of a built-in GPS, all assisted by their in-house 5X83 caliber. The functionality of the SSH171 includes a chronograph (for up to 12 hours), a perpetual calendar, world time for 38 cities, GPS signaling for easy time adjustments as needed, DST adjustment, and the ever-handy in-flight mode.
On the flip side, the SSJ029 has slightly less functionality that its big brother, the SSH171, but with all the same style. Powered by the GPS solar 3X62 caliber, you can expect a perpetual calendar, GPS functionality for easy time adjustment, date display, and in-flight mode.
Both watches will be available in January 2025 with the SSH171 priced at $2,700, while the SSJ029 is slightly less at $2,600. As limited editions, a set number of pieces have been produced with both references limited to just 1,500 examples. You can learn more by visiting Seiko’s website here.
