Seiko’s Space-Age Revival: Meet the SMGG17P1, SMGG19P1 & SMGG21P1 – Seiko’s Answer to the G-Shock Generation
Seiko’s gone back to its roots — and then straight into orbit. The brand has revived one of its most iconic digital designs in the form of the SMGG17P1, SMGG19P1, and SMGG21P1 — a trio that mixes vintage digital charm with modern durability. Think Seiko precision meets G-Shock toughness, wrapped in unapologetic 1980s swagger.
Back to the Future (But Make It 1982)
Back in the late ’70s and early ’80s, Seiko was the name in digital timekeeping. They made everything from calculator watches to multi-function chronographs — the cutting edge of quartz innovation. Then, in the 1990s, they stepped away from full digital ranges to focus on their mechanical and hybrid quartz icons.
Now, more than two decades later, Seiko’s finally back with a proper digital collection. The new releases are modern reimaginings of the Rotocall digital quartz watch from 1982 — the one astronauts actually wore on NASA missions.
The standout feature is the rotating bezel, which replaces fiddly buttons. You simply twist the bezel to switch modes: time, chronograph, alarm, countdown — all with a tactile, mechanical feel that makes you wonder why everyone else abandoned it.
Specs You Actually Care About
Movement: Quartz calibre A824
Accuracy: ±20 seconds per month
Battery life: roughly 3 years
Features: Stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, dual time, full calendar
Construction: Stainless steel case and bracelet, Hardlex crystal
Water resistance: 10 bar (100m)
Size: 37mm diameter, 10.6mm thick, 43.5mm lug-to-lug
UK price: around £480
These are built like proper tool watches — compact, durable, and ready for anything. It’s that rugged, everyday reliability that’ll appeal to anyone who’s ever owned (or loved) a G-Shock.
So, What Exactly Is a Digital Quartz Watch?
A digital quartz watch uses a quartz crystal oscillator powered by a battery to keep time. The crystal vibrates at an ultra-precise frequency, which the watch’s circuitry converts into timekeeping data shown on an LCD screen.
That’s what makes them incredibly accurate — usually within seconds per month — and capable of all those clever extra features like stopwatches, alarms, and dual time zones.
In short, it’s pure 80s engineering brilliance: part computer, part wristwatch, all reliability.
Built for the Modern Adventurer (and the Accident-Prone)
These new Seikos share a lot of DNA with the G-Shock ethos — watches that take a beating and come back for more. They’re solid stainless steel rather than resin, giving them a more premium feel while keeping that no-nonsense, “I can handle anything” attitude.
Whether you’re timing laps, cooking dinner, or heading outdoors, these are the kind of digital watches that do the job without fuss — and look fantastic doing it.
Which One’s for You?
SMGG17P1 (Black & Yellow) – Classic, sporty, and easy to wear every day.
SMGG19P1 (Red & Black) – Bold and unapologetic, perfect for standing out.
SMGG21P1 (Blue & Silver) – Sleek, subtle, and effortlessly cool.
All three hit that sweet spot between functionality and flair — durable enough for adventure, stylish enough for the office.
Final Thoughts
After twenty years away from digital, Seiko’s return is nothing short of a triumph. The range blends classic quartz tech with everyday usability and that unmistakable Seiko charm.
They’re tough, clever, and refreshingly different — the kind of watches that remind you why digital never went out of style.
