Radio-controlled solar watches keep accurate time without the need for charging. While there are a variety of models available, when you are thinking of purchasing a "luxury" radio-controlled solar watch, Seiko's Astron, Citizen's Attesa, and Casio's Oceanus are likely to come to mind. We will compare these three brands and introduce the appeal of each.
The appeal of radio-controlled solar watches and how to choose them
There are two major advantages to radio-controlled solar watches. One is that they always tell the correct time no matter where you are. The other is their long battery life, which is said to be three to four times longer than that of regular watches.
We will elaborate on these two points and explain the appeal of radio-controlled solar watches and how to choose one.
The appeal of radio-controlled solar watches
It is important for a watch to always show the correct time. At the same time, it is also important that it continues to operate stably. If the hands are not moving when you look at the dial, the watch cannot function properly.
One of the watches that has the features that people want in a wristwatch is the radio-controlled solar watch.
A radio-controlled watch receives standard radio waves from a transmitter and converts the time code into time information. This information is sent to the motor that drives the hands, and the watch is equipped with a function to automatically correct the time. A radio-controlled solar watch combines this with the ability to be powered by light energy from sunlight or fluorescent lights.
This means that the battery lasts a long time and you can always know the correct time in areas where radio waves can be received. This is the appeal of radio-controlled solar watches.
Points of comparison
There are many different models of radio-controlled solar watches, and choosing which model to prioritize is up to the user's personal preference.
Another criterion is the material. The cases and bracelets of radio-controlled solar watches are mainly made of titanium or stainless steel.
Titanium is characterized by its light weight and high durability, while stainless steel has the advantage of being highly hard and easily able to achieve a luxurious appearance.
The level of water resistance also varies widely depending on the model. Users can choose the watch that best suits their lifestyle, from 20 atmospheres (enough for skin diving), to 10 atmospheres (enough for waterside leisure activities), to 5 atmospheres (enough for doing wet work), and even 2-3 atmospheres (enough for everyday use).
Seiko Astron Features and Functions
Seiko Astron celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2022 with the release of the Nexter. Aimed at the next generation of leaders, this collection offers a compact, smart fit with a dignified form. GPS solar (Cal. 5X83). Runs for approximately six months on a full charge (approximately two years in power save mode). Twilight blue dial. Ti case (diameter 44.1mm, thickness 14.4mm). Water resistant to 10 bar. Price: 352,000 yen (tax included). (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service Tel. 0120-061-012
The name "Astron" evokes the image of a revolution in precision that occurred in the world of wristwatches. This revolution occurred twice. The first time was in 1969. The second time was in 2012, with the GPS-equipped watch "Seiko Astron," which we will introduce in this article. We would like to take a closer look at its features and functions.
Overview of Astron
The world's first quartz watch, named "Quartz Astron," was born in 1969. Since then, the accuracy of wristwatches has improved dramatically, and the technology for making watches that keep accurate time has developed greatly.
Then, in 2012, the birth of the Astron watch marked another revolution in watch accuracy. The Astron, which appeared in 12, was the world's first GPS solar watch.
The radio-controlled watch featured in this article displays accurate time by receiving the time code from a standard radio wave. However, there are only five base stations that transmit standard radio waves in the world, including Japan, so in areas where the signal does not reach, the watch functions as a regular quartz watch. On the other hand, the Seiko Astron, which is equipped with a GPS function, receives signals from GPS satellites and acquires accurate location information to display the time in your current location. It is compatible with all 39 time zones around the world, so even if you travel to an area without a standard radio wave and are unable to determine the time difference, you can still tell the accurate time with the press of a single button.
The arrival of the Seiko Astron, equipped with a small GPS antenna that was previously thought to be impossible, overturned existing concepts of wristwatches, and it can be said that the brand marked a new chapter in the history of wristwatches.
Time zone correction and smart sensors
Time zone adjustment is a key function of radio-controlled watches, but the GPS satellite acquisition status display required for this is a feature unique to Seiko.
By incorporating three independent axes for hour, minute, and second hands and a high-speed motor, high-speed hand movement is achieved when correcting the time.
Another feature exclusive to Astron is the Super Smart Sensor, which automatically receives time information from GPS satellites up to twice a day. When sunlight hits the dial, the reception timing is automatically adjusted and signal reception begins.
If there is even a slight discrepancy in the time information from the satellite, it will immediately correct to the correct time.
Citizen Attesa features and functions
This 2025 model features GPS satellite radio wave reception. Its blue Duratect DLC exterior and glitter dial are also distinctive features. It features a light-powered Eco-Drive system. It lasts for approximately five years on a full charge (in power save mode). It has a titanium case (44mm diameter, 13.7mm thick). It is water resistant to 10 bar. It is limited to 2000 pieces worldwide. It costs 363,000 yen (tax included). For inquiries, please contact the Citizen Customer Service Center at 0120-78-4807.
Citizen's Attesa series uses titanium as its material. Let's take a closer look at the Attesa, which has a wide range of features.
Overview of Attesa
Attesa is a brand developed by Citizen. Boasting a history of nearly 100 years since its founding, Citizen Watch, which handles everything from parts procurement to assembly in-house, proudly presents this series to the world. The concept is "titanium watches that symbolize Citizen's technology." Many models are equipped with GPS or radio wave reception, and the light-powered Eco-Drive technology allows them to run efficiently even in dim indoor light.
Furthermore, the Attesa's design theme is sporty and elegant, and by harmonizing the two, it has succeeded in creating a sophisticated and elegant look.
It is practical and easy to use, yet has a luxurious look, making it a perfect item for business situations.
Sharp design and fit
ATTESA is characterized by a visual appearance that combines flexibility and strength. In particular, the light and shadows created by the various smooth surfaces are stunningly beautiful.
Titanium is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and hypoallergenic, but it is difficult to refine and process. Each piece of titanium is painstakingly polished and refined to create sophisticated designs.
The flexible fit is also comfortable. Special specifications allow for greater movement between the case and band, resulting in a smooth wearing experience.
Features and functions of Casio Oceanus
Equipped with a newly developed module, this model achieves the thinnest case thickness of any model in the collection to date, at just 9.5mm. While it does not support GPS, it does have Multiband 6 technology, which receives standard radio waves from six stations around the world (two in Japan, plus China, the US, the UK, and Germany) to automatically adjust the time, and Bluetooth compatibility allows for time adjustment via smartphone connection. Tough Solar. Approximately 18 months on a full charge (in power save mode). Ti case (42.3mm diameter, 9.5mm thick). 10 bar water resistance. Price: 198,000 yen (excluding tax). (Inquiries) Casio Computer Customer Service Tel. 03-5334-4869
Casio's Oceanus is a highly acclaimed radio-controlled solar-powered watch that offers an excellent balance of design, functionality, and price. Let's explore its appeal.
Overview of Oceanus
The Oceanus is a collection released by Casio in 2004. It is the company's first full-metal radio-controlled solar analog watch.
Since its debut, it has gained many loyal users as an essential item for business people who travel around the world.
The company is also very particular about quality, and manufactures its products on a line at its own factory in Yamagata that specializes in the manufacturing and assembly of high-end models.
Slim & elegance is the concept
The Oceanus combines the precision of keeping accurate time anywhere in the world with the refined precision of a sculpted object, embodying the main concept of slim and elegance.
The lugs are kept to a minimum, and the elegant lines that run from the case to the band create a thin, flowing form that enhances the wearing comfort.
Choose the radio solar watch that's right for you
Radio-controlled solar watches provide accurate timekeeping and long-lasting operation, making them the perfect choice for globetrotting men.
We hope you will choose the best model that suits your lifestyle from a wide variety of models in terms of design, functionality, and price.
