Seiko is releasing six new additions to the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer collection. Three of them celebrate the brand’s historic relationship with Datsun, the iconic Japanese car manufacturer that made waves with the affordable and impressive 240Z sports car in 1969.
The link between Seiko and Datsun runs deep. In 1971, the Datsun 240z, equipped with the Seiko logo, won the strict East African Safari Rally. That Motorsport Connection has found its way to three new limited editions, each injected with Datsun DNA. Let’s take a closer look at the six new Seiko Prospex SpeedTimer references.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer and Datsun 240Z
Three of these new watches directly honor the Datsun 240Z, a sports car that redefined affordable performance in 1969. All three limited editions are part of the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Range, combining vintage design with modern execution. Each features a special case that references Datsun branding and car racing heritage.
The SPB517 is a mechanical three-grid, limited to 2,500 pieces. The SRQ057 is a high-speed automatic chronograph limited to just 500 units. The SSC957 is a solar-powered chronograph with six months of autonomy and is limited to 4,000 units.
If you like Seikos, with a bit of rally grit and lace pedigree, the Datsun version might be for you.
SPB517: Datsun Color Classic Seiko Prospex Speedtimer
Of the three Datsun-themed models, the SPB517 balances versatility with theme personality. The relatively calm styling and 39.5mm size give it versatility, while the red, black and blue dial elements echo the Datsun coloring. The internal countdown bezel adds a subtle motorsport touch by featuring typography lifted from the Datsun 240Z watch.
Inside, checks the Seiko 6R55 automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve. The case has a 12mm profile and offers 200 meters of water resistance. The closed caseback features the Datsun logo, which was used in the 1970s, with a vintage blue and red logo on the dial.
This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer is limited to 2,500 units and costs 1,250 euros. I have to admit, I’m not usually a fan of co-branded watches, but this works for me. I love the little dash of colours that the logo offers. I feel that Seiko and Datsun’s relationship is authentic enough to guarantee these special editions and is important. I also like the first internal rotating bezel in the SpeedTimer collection.
SRQ057: High Spec Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph
The SRQ057 is the flagship of the new Datsun edition. It’s different from existing high-end speed channels. This is the first high-end speed timer to use an external taphimeter bezel. The power supply is Seiko’s Top Tier 8R48 automatic chronograph movement, with column wheels, vertical clutches and MEMS manufacturing escapement. Power reserves are provided in 45 hours. It runs for a few seconds at 3am, in addition to a dual registered chronograph with a 30-minute counter and a 12-hour counter.
The 42mm black case brings a thickness of 14.6mm. In other words, this involves the presence of a serious wrist. The Tachimeter Bezel is inspired by the original 1969 Speedtimer. The dial features vintage style numbers reminiscent of the Datsun cursive script logo and 240Z instrument panels. Note that the three watches have different versions of the Datsun logo. I know what you did there, Seiko… you have to catch everything, right?
This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer is limited to just 500 units and costs 3,500 euros.
SSC957: Solar-powered Seiko Prospex Speedtimer
For those who prefer low-maintenance (and low-cost) chronos, the SSC957 offers solar power generation with styling that still speaks to the heritage of vintage lace. It probably feels more modern, perhaps due to its dark PVD center link. The 41.4mm x 13mm case feels a little more compact on the wrist than its mechanical chronograph siblings.
Equipped with Seiko’s Solar V192 diameter, it charges through the dial and promises operation for up to six months on a full charge. The caseback features a custom illustration of the Datsun 240Z, and the Datsun logo on the dial adds a nice touch without being forced.
This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer reference is limited to 4,000 units and will be sold for 1,050 euros. I can’t say I’m a huge fan of two-tone bracelets, but I love the watch itself. Again, the colour combo is subtle, the more versatile it is, yet still inspired by vintage lace. It’s pretty cool, Seiko!
Regular Production SpeedTimer Models Extend the lineup
Beyond the theme of Datsun, Seiko also introduces three regular production productions, Seiko Prospex Speedtimer models, SPB513, SPB515, and SRQ055. These watches do not carry car branding, but they echo the atmosphere of the Speedtimer family of the 1970s.
The SPB513 (silver white dial) and SPB515 (black dial) are technically identical to the SPB517. However, these are 70s style bracelets and feature 70s style orange accents. The price is 1,000 euros and offers a huge amount of value.
The SRQ055 is a regular production chronograph with the same movement and specifications as the SRQ057, but with a more restrained, single-color design. It costs 2,800 euros and is on a steel bracelet. I have to say, I love this so much! But again, I tend to like simpler, base model watches.
Final Thoughts on the New Seiko Speedtimer Release
In a world of watches dominated by extremely thin storytelling, this co-brand really feels like it makes sense. Both SpeedTimer and 240Z originated in 1969, and I think these commemorative editions have been largely postponed from history shared through the original sponsorship deal.
I think the co-branding is also being done elegantly. The inspiration taken from Datsun’s lace colouring and typography works simply aesthetically. I also really like Seiko using a different bit of Datsun branding for each of the three watches. You can imagine that hardcore Datsun enthusiasts might want to collect them all as a result.
Next, there are three normal production models. I like Seiko here practicing restraints and making them clean, simple and top. Well done!
What do you think about the new Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Datsun and non-Datsun editions? Let us know in the comments section below!
