Finding inspiration in Seiko’s heritage, a new Speedtimer
mechanical chronograph design is born in Prospex.

In 2021, a new Speedtimer series was introduced into the Prospex collection in honour of Seiko’s rich and continuing tradition of sports timing. Today, a new creation with a new design for mechanical chronographs is born.

Shaped by heritage, the new timepiece inherits many of the design elements of a Speedtimer chronograph that was introduced in 1972. The flowing case design, multi-row bracelet, and highly legible panda-style dial with an orange-tipped chronograph seconds hand are all design cues inherited from the 1972 creation. The new case and bracelet are produced using Seiko’s latest watchmaking technologies, and the case and dial feature varying hairline finishing techniques to create a classic and refined presence. The multi-row bracelet is composed of fine links that provide movement while fully supporting the weight of the case to achieve comfort on the wrist.

The new watch is powered by Calibre 8R48, which is hand-assembled by Seiko’s most skilled watchmakers. This chronograph movement’s vertical clutch and column wheel ensure the precision and reliability that are the hallmarks of the 8R movement series. Calibre 8R48 is constructed with robustness and maintainability in mind. Its escapement is lightweight and strong thanks to the use of MEMS technology, which enhances stability and precision. The chronograph pushers have been redesigned with shorter stems to further enhance the high operability for which the Speedtimer is renowned.

The chronograph seconds hand is gently curved down towards the dial so that the tip of the hand is as close as possible to the dial's markers and extends right to the tachymeter scale at the dial’s edge. The minute and hour hands, as well as the outer portions of the indexes, are generously coated with Lumibrite so that the time can be read even in low-light conditions.

Since the beginning of Seiko in 1881, the company has continued to innovate in line with founder Kintaro Hattori’s philosophy to be "Always one step ahead of the rest." In 1924, the company introduced the first wristwatch with “Seiko” on the dial, signifying the beginning of the Seiko brand. Next year, 2024, marks the 100th anniversary of this landmark event.

The limited-edition model commemorating the 100th anniversary of this milestone has the same qualities and specifications as the newly designed mainstay mechanical chronograph but features a blue-grey dial with silver-white sub-dials. The watch comes with a metal bracelet, but if the wearer chooses, the bracelet can be switched with the included black leather strap, whose stitching is designed to increase its durability.

Both watches will be available at the Seiko Boutiques and select retail stores worldwide from December 2023.

Calibre 8R48, Automatic Chronograph
Column wheel and vertical clutch systems
Power reserve: 45 hours
Jewels: 34
Chronograph with 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock and 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock

Specifications
Stainless steel case and bracelet with super-hard coating
Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface
Screw case back
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Diameter: 42.0mm Thickness: 14.6mm
Three-fold clasp with push button release
Additional leather strap included (SRQ049)
Recommended retail prices in AUD: $3,900 (SRQ047), $4,200 (SRQ049)
Limited edition of 1,000 (SRQ049)

For further information

Special web page:
www.seikowatches.com/au-en/products/prospex/special/speedtimer/index
Seiko Prospex web page:
www.seikowatches.com/au-en/products/prospex

Note:
The specifications and price information in this release are as of the published date and are subject to change.