Rotocall, astronaut Seiko ... the Seiko A829 is back and has got the hang of it
A piece of Seiko history is back: a digital quartz watch developed in the 1980s that was characterised by exceptional functionality and striking design. Its official name: "Seiko A829".
However, many watch enthusiasts found this name too sober, so they came up with nicknames. For example, "Rotocall", referring to the operation via the rotating bezel. Another unofficial name is "Astronaut Seiko", as the model was worn by several famous space travellers on their missions.
These include Wubbo Ockels, the first Dutchman in orbit. Anna Fisher, the first mother in space. Paul Desmond Scully-Power, the first Australian in space, and Ulf Merbold, the first West German on a NASA mission.
What makes the watch so authentic is that the astronauts chose the "Seiko A829" themselves; it was not part of the official equipment.
New look for a striking original
Now comes the remake of the "Seiko A829", which remains unmistakably true to the roots of the original. The three new variants take up the colour combinations of the original models: Yellow, red and blue, each combined with black.
The LCD display is also modelled on the classic and uses the characteristic font of the historic model. It also offers practical enhancements such as an AM/PM display and a battery level indicator.
The bezel replaces the pushers
The special feature is the octagonal, polygonal bezel. It not only characterises the characteristic design of the watches, but also takes over the central control of the functions.
Instead of classic push-buttons, the bidirectional rotating bezel is used to switch between the displays. This includes a timer, a second time zone and an alarm function. Other functions include a stop function, countdown timer, counter function, calendar, low battery warning and LED illumination of the digital display under Hardlex glass.
With a diameter of 37 millimetres, a height of 10.5 millimetres and flat lugs, the "Seiko A829" is also comfortable to wear. The stainless steel case is water-resistant to 10 bar and has a screw-down case back.
(RRP: 570 €)
