Seiko SBCJ019 Titanium Alpinist

An early 2000s, now discontinued, titanium 8F56 HAQ (+/- 20 seconds per year) GMT Perpetual Calendar Alpinist from Seiko.

Model: Seiko SBCJ019 / 8F56-00D0

Year: December 2003

Complications: It’s both GMT and a Perpetual calendar. The calendar won’t need correcting until February 28, 2100. Despite having a GMT hand, it’s still an Alpinist at heart so there’s rotating inner compass bezel instead of a World Timer bezel. The bezel can be used to determine the direction of North as long as you can see the Sun.

The Movement: High Accuracy Quartz (HAQ). Quartz movements are known for theur accuracy, often achieving +/- 15 seconds per month, but they have one major weakness: changes in temperature. HAQ movements are thermos-compensated, meaning they can adjust themselves when the temperature changes, resulting in an accuracy of +/- 20 seconds per year!

The Battery: The 8F56 battery up to a 10-year lifespan. It was replaced in 2023 so you’re good to go for a while!

Materials: The case and bracelet are titanium making it incredibly lightweight. A mix of polished and brushed surfaces give it a rugged but smart appearance. The bracelet is the original titanium bracelet.

The Condition: Very good condition overall. The crystal, dial and hands are flawless. There are mild hairlines across the case, but nothing particularly noticeable apart from on the crown guard where there are two noticeable scratches.

Scope: No box or papers.

Movement: 8F56 HAQ

Dimensions:

• Case Width: 38.5mm
• Case Thickness: 11.1mm
• Bracelet Length: Up to a 7.3” wrist