Seiko Expands Its 145th Anniversary Astron Nexter Collection With Two Ultra-Limited Titanium Models
Seiko is adding two striking new models to its 145th anniversary Astron Nexter lineup, and they may be the most exclusive releases in the series so far. The Seiko Astron Nexter HAC003J and HAD003J are both limited to just 500 pieces each, making them significantly rarer than the already limited HAB011J, which is capped at 2,000 units.
Both watches are scheduled to launch in Japan on October 9 and appear to be Japan-only releases. Unlike the globally available GPS-based Astron models, these two use radio-controlled timekeeping, which helps explain why they are not being positioned for a wider international rollout.
The two new watches share the same elegant Edo purple design theme found across Seiko’s latest anniversary collection. The dial features a refined horizontal gradient pattern, complemented by gold accents on the Seiko logo and seconds hand. Combined with the modern Astron Nexter case design and lightweight titanium construction, the result is a clean but distinctive look that blends traditional Japanese inspiration with contemporary watchmaking.
The Seiko Astron Nexter HAC003J is the smaller and more understated of the two. Priced at ¥165,000, or roughly $1,045, it is designed as a compact three-hand dress watch. The case measures 36 mm in diameter and just 8.7 mm thick, making it a strong option for collectors who prefer a slimmer, more refined wrist presence.
Made from pure titanium, the HAC003J offers the comfort and lightness that titanium watches are known for. Inside is Seiko’s caliber 7B62, a solar-powered movement with radio-controlled time adjustment. When the watch is outside radio signal range, it maintains an accuracy of ±15 seconds per month.
The HAC003J also includes a date display and a full auto-calendar programmed until December 31, 2099. On a full charge, it can run for approximately nine months, giving it excellent everyday practicality alongside its limited-edition appeal.
The Seiko Astron Nexter HAD003J is the larger and more feature-packed model. Priced at ¥176,000, or around $1,115, this version is a solar radio-controlled chronograph powered by Seiko’s caliber 8B92. It measures 41.3 mm wide and 10.6 mm thick, giving it a sportier and more technical profile than the HAC003J.
Its hard-coated titanium case helps improve durability while keeping the watch lightweight. The HAD003J adds a 1/5-second chronograph capable of measuring up to 60 minutes, along with a 25-timezone world time function. It also features a screw-lock crown, reinforcing its more performance-focused character.
Battery life is slightly shorter than the smaller model, with around six months of operation on a full charge, but the additional chronograph and world time functions make it the more versatile choice for those who want a travel-ready Astron with extra functionality.
What makes these two Seiko Astron Nexter anniversary watches especially interesting is their rarity. Each model is limited to only 500 units, making them the most restricted watches in this release wave. That limited production, combined with their Japan-only status, is likely to make them particularly desirable among Seiko collectors and fans of the Astron line.
The reason for their limited market availability comes down to their timekeeping system. Unlike GPS-solar Astron watches, the HAC003J and HAD003J rely on radio signals from standard time broadcasts. These signals are available in regions such as Japan, China, the United States, and Germany, while the HAC003J also supports the United Kingdom.
Because radio-controlled watches depend on regional signal coverage, Seiko typically does not offer this version of the Astron in markets where those signals are not reliably available. That is why these two models are focused on Japan, while the GPS-based HAB011J is the one aimed at a broader global audience.
With their Edo purple dials, titanium construction, solar-powered movements, and extremely limited production numbers, the Seiko Astron Nexter HAC003J and HAD003J stand out as two of the most collectible pieces in Seiko’s 145th anniversary lineup. The HAC003J will appeal to those who want a compact, elegant, and highly wearable titanium dress watch, while the HAD003J offers a more advanced chronograph design with world time capability.
For collectors watching Seiko’s anniversary releases closely, these two Japan-exclusive Astron Nexter models may become some of the hardest to find once they arrive on October 9.
