The retro timepiece continues to feature a distinctive rotating bezel design that allows for quick switching between eight different modes.
The Omega Speedmaster Professional, famously worn by Buzz Aldrin during the Apollo 11 mission, is the most iconic watch to have been to space. However, the Seiko Rotocall, known for its unique design that simplified mode switching, might be close behind. Seiko has revived this watch, which was used by several NASA astronauts until 2002, including Sally Ride. The updated version retains the core LCD display and functionality of the original but comes with a slightly refreshed design.
Originally released in 1982 for $125, the first version of the Seiko Rotocall is now available in new models: SMGG21 (blue/silver), SMGG19 (red/black), and SMGG17 (black/yellow), with a price of $550. Prospective buyers need not rush, as Seiko has not restricted the release to limited quantities, helping to prevent scalpers from snagging them all.
The updated Rotocall features a knurled octagonal bezel with each side marked for different functions like time, setting time, timer, counter, stopwatch, dual-time display, and alarms. Selecting a mode is as simple as rotating the desired function to the top position. Powered by Seiko’s A824 Quartz movement, the watch boasts an accuracy of ±20 seconds per month and a battery life of around three years. It’s waterproof to over 300 feet, although Seiko hasn’t specified its capacity to endure a space vacuum.