When you think of Seiko, digital watches aren’t really the first things that come to mind. However, back in the early ’80s, the Japanese watchmaker was dabbling a bit in these types of timepieces. So much so that they actually invented a sort of bezel toggling system found today on some smartwatches. Debuting on the Rotocall (ref. A829-6019 and A829-6029), the intuitive function caught the attention of astronauts like Sally Ride and Wubbo Ockels, among others, and appeared in over 150 space missions over the next two decades. This connection even earned it the nickname the “Seiko Astronaut.”
Today, Seiko has faithfully reissued the Rotocall, but with a few updates that usher the digital watch into the modern era.
A Space-Proven Interface Returns
The Rotocall’s claim to fame has always been its octagonal bezel control system. Instead of fumbling through multiple button presses like you would on a standard digital watch, you simply rotate the knurled bezel to select your function — time, dual time, alarm, daily alarm, stopwatch, counter, or timer — and then use the buttons at 4 and 8 o’clock to operate it. This was particularly appealing for astronauts working in bulky gloves, but it’s also just a smarter way to navigate a digital watch in general, hence its utilization in the modern-day smartwatch space.
The reissue stays true to that original design philosophy while incorporating subtle improvements. Seiko’s updated A824 quartz module provides ±20 seconds per month accuracy with a three-year battery life, and you now get helpful additions like an AM/PM indicator and battery level gauge that weren’t on the original. The digital display remains wonderfully legible with its high-contrast layout and LED backlighting.
Triple the Nostalgia
At 37mm across and 43.5mm lug-to-lug, the stainless steel case proportions are the same as the ’80s models, except for the 10.6mm thickness (up from just 9mm). Seiko opted for brushed finishing on the lugs this time around rather than the polished treatment of the original — a smart move that should help hide scratches better. Water resistance has been bumped up to a respectable 100m, with a dial covered by a Hardlex crystal.
The three colorways mirror the vintage models: SMGG17 features a yellow and black bezel with an anthracite dial, SMGG19 swaps yellow for red, and SMGG21 goes with gray and blue accents on a light gray background. Each comes with a five-row stainless steel bracelet.
Spec Sheet
Model: Seiko Digital Alarm Chronograph “Rotocall” (ref. SMGG17, SMGG19, & SMGG21)
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Size: 37mm
Case Thickness: 10.6mm
Lug-to-Lug: 43.5mm
Movement: Caliber A824 quartz
Water Resistance: 100m
Crystal: Hardlex
Band: Five-row stainless steel bracelet
Battery Life: Approximately 3 years
Functions: Rotary switch bezel, chronograph (1/100 sec), alarm, daily alarm, dual-time, counter, timer
Limited Edition?: No
Pricing & Availability
Not limited in edition size, Rotocall reissue is priced at £480 (~$625) and will be available starting in November. There’s no U.S. pricing or release info at the moment.
Recap
Seiko Rotocall 2025 Reissue
Seiko just brought back the Rotocall, a retro ’80s digital watch with the rotating bezel that astronauts loved because you didn’t have to fumble with a bunch of buttons. It’s a faithful reissue with some modern upgrades like better water resistance and an updated movement.
